Pastoral Staff

Dr. Darren T. Johnson is a pastor, teacher, and shepherd at heart who is devoted to guiding people toward spiritual growth, biblical understanding, and a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. With a passion for preaching, teaching, counseling and discipleship, he has dedicated his life to serving both the church and the community through pastoral care. Before entering full-time pastoral leadership, Dr. Johnson served as an English and Social Studies teacher in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he viewed the classroom as an extension of ministry, encouraging young people to pursue purpose, and faith alongside academic excellence. He has faithfully served the body of Christ as Christian Education Pastor at Sharon Baptist Church of Philadelphia and later as Senior Pastor of New Life Bible Fellowship, where his leadership emphasized sound doctrine, spiritual formation, and equipping believers to live out the Gospel in everyday life. He currently serves as Board Chairman of Men of Purpose International (MOPI), supporting restorative justice and overcoming recidivism strategies for individuals and families impacted by incarceration. At the center of Pastor Johnson’s ministry philosophy is the conviction that shepherding begins at home. Guided by the pastoral qualifications found in 1 Timothy 3:5, ((If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?). Subsequently, he views his family as his first congregation and his first ministry. He is a devoted husband and father of two children and believes that faithful leadership in the household reflects the heart of Christ’s leadership in the church. Dr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Philadelphia Biblical University, a Master of Business Administration from Cairn University, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Howard University School of Divinity. While grateful for academic preparation, he considers the calling to care for souls to be the highest privilege of ministry. He is especially burdened to see lives restored through the transforming power of the Gospel, particularly the marginalized, downtrodden and those affected by incarceration. His ministry is shaped by Scripture’s call to compassionate identification and spiritual renewal: “Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” Hebrews 13:3