Born and raised as a native of Greenwood, Mississippi, Elder Gwendolyn Richardson, affectionately known as “Elder Gwen”, is the daughter of Evelyn and the late Frank Brooks and a graduate of Greenwood High School. She holds a dual Bachelor’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership and a Master’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources from Bethel University. She is certified in church administration as well as a life coach and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership from Anderson Theological Seminary.

After 15 years in various Information Technology leadership roles in corporate America, Elder Gwen decided to follow her passion and work full-time in ministry as the Executive Pastor of Christ the Healer Church under the leadership of Bishop Calvin and Pastor Lynnita Lockett. She excels in her leadership roles as the 2nd Vice on the church’s governing board and Chief Operations Officer for the ministry, as well as providing oversight of the Marketing, Audio/Visual and administrative functions of the church to include finances and long-term strategic planning. She actively teaches the Word of God, with clarity, joy, and simplicity when called upon.

Elder Gwen is humbled and grateful to God for the many opportunities and blessings afforded her as she strives to serve with excellence in the Kingdom of God.  She is a Godly example for many to emulate.

Elder Gwen has a deep passion for mentoring young men and women to pursue their goals and dreams as they use their God-given talents to the best of their ability to bring glory to God. This passion led her to birth ABETTERU, an organization designed to provide mentoring and coaching to those who inspire them to reach new levels and continue to excel in life. She serves her community through her affiliation as an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

Elder Gwen found the love of her life, Cleveland Richardson while serving in the United States Army. Together, they had two girls, Jasmine and Jamecia. After 29 years of marriage in February 2019, God called Cleveland home. Her greatest joy is spending time with her daughters and grandchildren.

Through prayer, perseverance, and patience Elder Gwen is blazing a trail in God’s kingdom and is fulfilling her destiny to finish strong. Her life verse is reflected in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me.” Her mantra is “be ready when the opportunity comes”.