WELCOME
As we embark on 2025 and the initiation of another STRONG CHURCH Leadership Conference, it is no mystery that change is already upon us in every context of society. Some of the change is inevitable due to how the world naturally evolves, while other change is subjected upon us as things shift politically in our nation. Even as we engage in ministry in our local assemblies, many of us encounter change as we wrestle with change in people and change in the systems that we use to move us forward. We must contend with the multiple adaptations and adjustments we must constantly make to keep our congregations alive and relevant. Regardless as to how change occurs, we as God’s chosen people have been called to lead and to serve amid perpetual change.
As such it is our desire, as the leaders of this great body of people that God has entrusted us with, to gather in this space and time together and seek to offer insights, strategies, skills, and tools that will help all of us thrive in 2025. It is my prayer that we will be renewed and reinvigorated to stay constant and remain focused on what we believe God has called us to do in our local assemblies. I pray that we all experience and encounter principles of leadership that will propel forward the visions and desires of the MCHCA organization and of our local churches.
Let’s open our hearts and minds as we get stronger together and ascend into a new place where we maximize our work in the kingdom.
Sincerely,
Bishop Haywood Parker, Ed.D. First Vice-Presiding Bishop
SCHEDULE
BISHOP S.Y. YOUNGER
Bishop S.Y. Younger is a captivating preacher, teacher, evangelist, author, and lecturer. He hails from the central part of Virginia in the United States, where he attended Liberty University in the Fall of 2003, majoring in English and pursuing a minor in History. In 2005, however, his academic pursuit was interrupted by a divine call to plant a church. He started his first church, The Ramp Church International, now in Lynchburg, Virginia.
As Bishop Younger’s ministry grew, he began to plant more churches around the U.S. and in other countries. In 2011, he was consecrated to the episcopacy and made a bishop in the Lord’s Church by a college of regional bishops. In addition to his church plants, other pastors and ministries began to seek his oversight. In response to the need, Bishop Younger started a fellowship of churches called the One Way Churches International. Today, he serves as the Founder & Vice Presiding Bishop under his pastor, Bishop Lorenzo Hall.
Bishop Younger has always been committed to community activism and leadership alongside his preaching ministry. Currently, he serves as director of an ecumenical group of clergy called Lynchburg Praise and the CEO & visionary behind Refuge on Memorial Avenue—the largest shelter in the region serving individuals experiencing homelessness and the unsheltered. Previously, he has served as a regional representative for the Piedmont Aids Taskforce, a regional director for a global peace organization called Christians United for Israel, and a community mentor to youth and young adults.
Bishop Younger believes wholeheartedly that his call to the nations extends beyond the podium into the fabric of the local and universal community. His convictions around serving the global church have led to his extensive travel in order to spread the message of the Gospel through the preached word and the missions field. His work spans nationally and internationally across the United States, India, Israel, El Salvador, Guatemala, Brazil, Pakistan, Nepal, South Korea, China, Mongolia, Kenya, South Africa, Dubai, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In addition to preaching and teaching, praying for the sick and shut in, counseling leaders, and more, his global ministry includes the B. Younger Academy—a network of international Christian learning institutions centered on equipping local children and their parents with the skills necessary to change their life’s trajectory.
Following his passion to see the Gospel ministered to all corners of the earth, Bishop has incorporated other avenues to encourage people into the warm embrace of God’s love. As an author, his 2019 devotional and accompanying workbook entitled Keep Going spanned across the nations, resulting in its Portuguese translation landing a prominent spot in Brazil’s 2023 Lisbon Book Fair. In like manner, Bishop Younger’s musical projects have inspired countless individuals worldwide. His songs are sung at events internationally, played on radio stations continuously, and shared on social media virally. Amid growing popularity, he has remained steadfast and unwavering in his devotion to gospel music’s sanctity, authenticity, and message, resulting in three Stellar Award nominations and a Grammy Award consideration in 2023.
Pastorally, Bishop serves as the senior pastor of the Mother Church—The Ramp Church International—located in Lynchburg, VA, The Ramp Church DMV located in Washington, DC, and The Ramp Church SP located in Sao Paulo, Brazil. He also oversees The Ramp NationTM—consisting of The Ramp Church Texas, The Ramp Church Los Angeles, The Ramp Church Toronto, and The Ramp Church Richmond—along with the churches covered by the OWCI fellowship.
Bishop Younger loves the Lord. His greatest joy is worshiping God and pastoring the flock. He recognizes his place as a servant in the kingdom and not a lord over God’s inheritance. As the Lord continues blessing him in prolific ways, his heart’s desire remains for God to get all the glory out of his life.
PASTOR JOHN K. JENKINS, SR.
Pastor John K. Jenkins Sr. has been preaching the Good News since becoming a licensed minister in 1973 at 15 years old. From an early age, he developed a love for the Lord and felt called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
His pastoral journey began in February 1987 as the senior pastor at Union Bethel Church in King George, Va. His nearly three years of pastoring proved to be the training ground for his upcoming assignment. In October of 1988, Pastor Jenkins learned of the passing of his mentor and pastor of his home church, the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Dr. John W. Johnson.
One year after Dr. Johnson’s passing, Pastor Jenkins returned to First Baptist to become the seventh shepherd. The fruit of his biblically based teaching is demonstrated in the growth of its church membership between its two campuses located in Landover and Upper Marlboro, Md. He has also overseen the development of the church’s thriving online campus.
Under the leadership of Pastor Jenkins, First Baptist founded SHABACH! Ministries, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 arm of the church in 1996. Today, he serves as chairman emeritus for SMI, which provides clothing, food, education and other resources in the Washington, D.C. area.
With the support of his wife, Trina, and their loving family, Pastor Jenkins has also expanded his ministry beyond the walls of First Baptist. In addition to his role as senior pastor, he also serves as the board chairman for the National Association of Evangelicals, Project Bridges, the Greater Prince George’s County Business Roundtable, The Skinner Institute, and Bethel University, Denver Seminary, University of Maryland Capital Region Health, World Vision, Great Dads, Teen Challenge and a local bank.
For two years, Pastor Jenkins served as vice president/executive director of National Ministries for Converge. Converge – a movement of over 1,700 churches who start and strengthen churches and spread the gospel worldwide with more than 240 missionaries. He recently made history when he was appointed as president of Converge in August 2022, making him the first African American to lead the 170-year-old organization.
In 2023, Pastor Jenkins received his Masters of Arts in Ministry Leadership from Wheaton College. He also received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Denver Seminary in Littleton, CO in 2022; and in 2001, he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from the Southern California School of Ministry in Inglewood, California.
Pastor Jenkins has traveled the world preaching and teaching about the love of Jesus Christ. Pastoring First Baptist since 1989, he remains steadfast in his quest to “develop dynamic disciples.” He is recognized as a catalyst to help individuals develop into lifelong Christian disciples who follow the Lord.
Despite his many obligations, as a licensed pilot, Pastor Jenkins takes great delight in flying, and holds his role as a family man as the highest treasure. He and his wife Trina are the proud parents of six children and seven grandchildren.
REV. DR. HAYWOOD L. PARKER
Rev. Dr. Haywood L Parker, a distinguished, dynamic and disciplined leader, is the visionary and Senior Pastor of Truth Tabernacle Ministries in Rocky Mount, NC. Under Bishop Parker’s extraordinary leadership, Truth Tabernacle Ministries has made a major impact in the city and Eastern region of North Carolina during the last forty-three years of existence. As a result of strong faith and incredible vision, the ministry has grown and prospered, and is now worshiping in the amazing tabernacle that sits in the heart of the community and city it’s been called to serve. Dr. Parker is a very compassionate and visionary pastor who cares deeply for the membership of the local assembly and the surrounding community. His contributions have been recognized by the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce who awarded him the 2021 Distinguished Citizen Award.
As a son of one of God’s prayer warriors and intercessors, Dr. Parker’s passion is prayer and intercession, along with his favorite indulgence of seeking truth as found in the Scriptures. Truth Tabernacle Ministries is an affiliate of the Mt. Calvary Holy Churches of America under the prestigious leadership of its Presiding Prelate, the honorable Bishop Marc Talbert. Bishop Parker serves as a part of the MCHCA Presidium as the First VicePresiding Bishop.
Bishop Parker is highly regarded as a prominent, prophetic and prolific leader in the Lord’s church. Dr. Parker has matriculated through the halls of academia, having earned a B.S. Degree in Mathematics Education from N. C. State University, a Master of Divinity Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Education from N.C. State University. He has done extensive postdoctoral work at Regent University in Virginia Beach,
He has served the community in many roles: as an Adjunct Professor of Religion at N. C. Wesleyan College, as an Advisory Board member of the Joint College of African American Bishops where he served as chairperson of the Scholarship Committee, the board of the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce, and as the President for several civic and non-profit entities in Rocky Mount such as the United Way and the Down East Partnership for Children.
Bishop Parker is happily married to Dr. Wanda FrazierParker, whom he loves dearly and who serves with him as Co-Pastor of Truth Tabernacle Ministries. As the leadership team of Truth Tabernacle Ministries, they are unified in spirit, mighty in power, unshakeable in their faith, and intertwined in purpose and vision. The Parkers have been mentors to many sons and daughters, serving as a catalyst for them to rise and fulfill their Kingdom assignments.
Bishop Parker is also the father of two wonderful and beautiful daughters, Shelayna and Stephanie, whom he cherishes with all his heart. He also has two wonderful grandboys, Malcolm and Samuel.
REV. MATTHEW L. WATLEY
Reverend Matthew L. Watley is a dynamic and dedicated pastor, renowned speaker, author, professor, entrepreneur, leadership consultant, and visionary ‘kingdom builder ‘.
As the founder and Senior Pastor of Kingdom Fellowship AME Church, Reverend Watley leads and spiritually guides a thriving community of over 8,000 members. In a remarkable testament to his leadership, the church recently transitioned to a cutting-edge facility, the Kingdom Worship Center, valued at $45,000,000.
Reverend Watley’s community involvement extends beyond the church. As the Chair of The Black IDEA Coalition, he is dedicated to achieving black parity in employment, investment, and contracting. He also leads the Kingdom Global Community Development Corporation, which provides comprehensive support services to address food insecurity, health, and outreach to those in various communities.
Rev. Watley frequently speaks on economy, culture, leadership, and health equity issues. He has spoken for Ch2Mhill, The Prudential, Industrial Bank, The American Institute of CPAs, the US Department of Transportation, and the Milken Institute. Rev. Watley founded The Kingdom Network (TKN), a leadership program that supports national clergy development.
Rev. Watley is a member of the Board of Trustees of Wiley University, the Advisory Board of the Museum of the Bible, the Board of Visitors of the Howard University School of Divinity, the Sub-Saharan Africa Advisory Committee of EXIM, and an at-large member of the General Board of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. He has served as an adjunct professor at Georgetown University and lectured at various higher-learning institutions, including Howard University, Alabama State University, Cornell University, Wesley Theological Seminary, and Wilberforce University.
Pastor Watley also has a BA in Political Science and a Master of Divinity from Howard University, an Executive Master’s in Leadership from Georgetown University, and a Master of Arts in Education and Human Development from George Washington University. In May of 2021, Pastor Watley was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Wiley College, where he delivered the commencement address to the graduating class of 2021. Rev. Watley is currently a doctoral candidate at Fuller Theological Seminary. He also received a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., for his commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service. Pastor Watley is the author of several books and articles; Ignite is his most recent book.
Pastor Watley professes that among his most significant roles are husband, father, and son. He is married to Shawna Francis Watley, Senior Policy Advisor with Holland and Knight LLC, and has one daughter, Alexandra Elizabeth Watley. The Watley family resides in the Metropolitan Washington Area.
BISHOP MARC D. TALBERT, PH.D.
As a 21st-century leader and visionary, Bishop Marc D. Talbert embodies the essence of influential and charismatic teaching, preaching, and education, igniting a profound passion for transforming lives through the power of God’s Word. Despite facing challenges throughout his journey, these experiences have served as stepping stones, fortifying his spirit and fueling an unwavering quest to delve into the heart of God through fervent prayer and intentional worship.
A distinguished alumnus of Frostburg State University, Bishop Talbert holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance, laying the foundation for his keen understanding of the intricacies of the corporate world. His desire for theological scholarship led him to National Bible College and Seminary, where he attained a Master of Theological Studies degree. Furthering his pursuit of wisdom and expertise, he earned a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Leadership from the esteemed Lancaster Bible College.
With a rich heritage of service in the Church, Bishop Talbert currently stands as the Senior Pastor of The Life Church, a progressive congregation in the Washington, DC area. He is spiritually connected with Mount Calvary Holy Church of America.
In July of 2023, Bishop Marc D. Talbert was appointed and consecrated Presiding Prelate of Mount Calvary Holy Church Incorporated, where he also serves as the Jurisdictional Bishop of the Mid-Atlantic District, encompassing Maryland and the District of Columbia.
Bishop has also served MCHCA as Bishop of Education, where he shouldered the responsibility of fostering growth and learning opportunities for a diverse audience of leaders and laypersons. Additionally, Bishop Talbert extends his expertise as an esteemed adjunct professor, subject matter expert, and doctoral advisor at Lancaster Bible College, imparting his wisdom in organizational leadership and religious disciplines.
Bishop Talbert rejoices in the blessed companionship of his lovely wife, First Lady LaShanda Talbert, and their four beautiful children: Marc Jr., now resting in eternal glory, Ragan, Mikalah, and Joshua.
An unwavering belief anchors Bishop Talbert’s spirit and reaffirms a steadfast confidence in the transformative power of God: It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: Great is the faithfulness of our Lord!
Bishop Daniel Bland
General Secretary
Revival Church
Hamden, CT
Dr. Regina Boney
Victory At Calvary Durham, NC
Mr. Quenci Bradley
Victory At Calvary Durham, NC
Pastor Joseph Brown
The House of Healing, DMV Capitol Heights, MD
Ms. Anita Collins
God’s Tabernacle of Praise MCHCA Buffalo, NY
Elder Lynette Hicks
Truth Tabernacle Ministries Rocky Mount, NC
Dr. Susie C. Owens
Greater Mt. Calvary
Holy Church Washington, DC
Bishop Terence M. Sykes
Second Vice-Presiding Bishop Shekijah Preparation Assembly Lynchburg, VA
Pastor Juan Wilder
Impact One Church Capitol Heights, MD
Minister Denzel Williams
The Life Church District Heights, MD
THINGS TO REMEMBER
CONFERENCE BADGE:
Please remember to wear your conference badge at all times. Your badge serves as your proof of registration and grants you access to all sessions, activities and meals. We appreciate your cooperation!
GROUND TRANSPORTATION:
We’ve got your ride covered! We are pleased to provide complimentary shuttle service for registered attendees between The Hotel at the University of Maryland (HUMD) and the First Baptist Church of Glenarden Ministry Center (FBCG).
Please refer to the schedule below for departure times:
Wednesday, January 29th
• 6:00 PM: Depart HUMD to FBCG
• 9:45 PM: Depart FBCG to HUMD
• Thursday, January 30th
• 7:30 AM: Depart HUMD to FBCG
• 5:00 PM: Depart FBCG to HUMD
• Friday, January 31st
• 7:30 AM: Depart HUMD to FBCG
• 5:00 PM: Depart FBCG to HUMD
LUNCH:
Lunch will be provided on Thursday and Friday for STRONG Church registrants.
VENDORS:
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore our vendors! Take time to visit their booths and connect with representatives who are eager to share their products with you. Be sure to stop by and see what they have to offer!
NEARBY DINING:
Craving something delicious? The Hotel at the University of Maryland has a variety of tasty options, including:
• GrillMarX
• Bagels ‘n Grinds
• Potomac Pizza
• Iron Rooster
For more dining choices nearby, visit the following link>> Nearby Dining at HUMD.
WIFI:
Get Connected!
Access the Wi-Fi: FBCGMCPublicWiFi
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Join the conversation and share your experience! Use #MCHCAGrows to post pictures, share insights, and connect with fellow attendees.
Extending heartfelt gratitude for your generous support and partnership.
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church
The Life Church
Freedom Temple Ministries
First Baptist Church of Glenarden
