About Pastor Barbara
I am a Michigan native and a third-generation pastor. I am a mother of five beautiful children from a blended family and a grandmother to four of the most amazing grandchildren. I am the granddaughter of the late Rev. and Mrs. Dorothy Bouknight, and T.C. and Virginia Dean. I am also the daughter of the late Rev. Joseph Bouknight and Kathy Bouknight. I knew of my calling long before I officially accepted it. I tried to run from it until I was diagnosed with a tumor that needed to be removed. I made an agreement with God that if He brought me through this ordeal, I would accept my calling. In 2010, I accepted my call into ministry, was ordained in 2016, and began pastoring in 2022. Along the way, I got married and made some poor decisions that threatened my marriage and family. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to making choices that are pleasing to the Lord. I am a member of the Human Relations Commission of Jackson, Michigan, where I serve on the nomination and policy and complaints committee. My favorite scripture is Ecclesiastes 12:1, and my favorite song is "Praying Spirit." I have a love for people and a passion for serving. I believe that everyone—regardless of race, gender, or political beliefs—is welcome. I hold a national license in Phlebotomy and am a Licensed Behavioral Specialist. My philosophy is to meet people where they are. I am not your typical pastor—I show my tattoos, have a loving spirit, and strive to be approachable and relatable to my members. I believe in serving outside of just preaching the Word. I have clinical pastoral experience and am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. I love to sing and am part of a community choir called Transformation. My goal is to bring souls to Christ not just by sharing the Word but also by living the Word.