Pastor Jonathan B. Whitfield was born in Southern New Jersey and raised under the watchful eye of his parents, Rev. Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Deborah Whitfield. Pastor Whitfield was born and raised in Atlantic City, NJ as a pastor’s kid. He has one older sibling, Rufus, who is also a pastor. When asked how he was called to preach, he shares a divine moment in life.
His Calling:
“I was serving in the military in Okinawa, Japan. On the fourth Sunday in January 1988, after worshipping at the Lively Sone COGIC, where I was a Deacon. I was on my knees praying and the Lord spoke to me very clearly. Like a megaphone in my ear, God said to me, ” I have anointed you to preach the gospel.” It was an undeniable, powerful voice. I then came home and my father licensed me at Calvary Baptist Church in Pleasantville, NJ. on the second Sunday in May that same year”
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.—Timothy 4:2
His Vision for the Church:
Pastor Whitfield is passionate about helping the lost, the neglected, and being a disciple. He says “It is clear to me that there are certain things the Lord wants the church to do. They really are centered on social service types missions; our efforts outside the four walls of the church. That is not to say we neglect the needs of our fellow church members, but what happens when we leave the sanctuary? How well do we help the churched and the unchurched when our brothers and sisters are hurting?”
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”.—Mark 16:15
