Rev. Dr. Kimberly Whitsett, DMin
Senior Pastor
About
Dr. Kimberly Renee Whitsett is a woman of faith, service, excellence, and purpose. She is a devoted servant-leader whose life reflects a steadfast commitment to God, family,
church, and community.
Through her many roles in ministry, public service, business, and the arts, Dr. Whitsett has demonstrated a heart for people and a calling to serve with integrity, compassion, and vision. Dr. Whitsett serves as the elected City Clerk of the City of Ecorse, Michigan, where she oversees municipal record-keeping, election processes, voter registration, city contracts, and official documents. In this capacity, she continues to uphold the principles of accountability, professionalism, and faithful stewardship in public administration. In ministry, Dr. Whitsett is a licensed and ordained minister who has served faithfully as Associate Pastor of Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church. Her ministry work has included Sunday School, Mission Outreach, Biblical Counseling, New Members Ministry, Music Ministry, the AV Team, and Blooming Buds Ministries. She has also developed and supported community outreach efforts designed to encourage, strengthen, and uplift others through the love of Christ.
She is academically prepared for the work to which she has been called. Dr. Whitsett earned a Doctor of Ministry from Ecumenical Theological Seminary, a Master’s degree in
Strategic Management from Sneden University, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Davenport University, an Associate’s degree in Clerical Processing from Detroit College of Business, and a Certification in Biblical Counseling from CDR Center.
Beyond ministry and public service, Dr. Whitsett is an accomplished entrepreneur and the founder and proprietor of Kim’s Quality Printing & More, where she specializes in desktop publishing and print media services. Her creative gifts also extend into music, theater, and film. She has released music projects including CONQUEROR and His Love, served in a lead role in the drama film Set In Motion, and written, produced, and directed stage productions including The Chronicles of the Cross and Recover All.
Her notable achievements include being a featured performer at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater Inaugural Opening, participating in the Detroit Music Awards Aretha Franklin Memorial Tribute, singing as a member of the internationally syndicated choir for Aretha Franklin’s Home Going Celebration, being awarded Downriver’s Best Singer in
2019 and 2021, and being recognized in Detroit’s Black Who’s Who in 2019.
As she enters this sacred season of pastoral installation, Dr. Whitsett stands as a prepared, prayerful, and purpose-driven leader. Her journey reflects a life surrendered to God’s will, a commitment to the work of the Kingdom, and a desire to serve God’s people with humility, wisdom, and love
church, and community.
Through her many roles in ministry, public service, business, and the arts, Dr. Whitsett has demonstrated a heart for people and a calling to serve with integrity, compassion, and vision. Dr. Whitsett serves as the elected City Clerk of the City of Ecorse, Michigan, where she oversees municipal record-keeping, election processes, voter registration, city contracts, and official documents. In this capacity, she continues to uphold the principles of accountability, professionalism, and faithful stewardship in public administration. In ministry, Dr. Whitsett is a licensed and ordained minister who has served faithfully as Associate Pastor of Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church. Her ministry work has included Sunday School, Mission Outreach, Biblical Counseling, New Members Ministry, Music Ministry, the AV Team, and Blooming Buds Ministries. She has also developed and supported community outreach efforts designed to encourage, strengthen, and uplift others through the love of Christ.
She is academically prepared for the work to which she has been called. Dr. Whitsett earned a Doctor of Ministry from Ecumenical Theological Seminary, a Master’s degree in
Strategic Management from Sneden University, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Davenport University, an Associate’s degree in Clerical Processing from Detroit College of Business, and a Certification in Biblical Counseling from CDR Center.
Beyond ministry and public service, Dr. Whitsett is an accomplished entrepreneur and the founder and proprietor of Kim’s Quality Printing & More, where she specializes in desktop publishing and print media services. Her creative gifts also extend into music, theater, and film. She has released music projects including CONQUEROR and His Love, served in a lead role in the drama film Set In Motion, and written, produced, and directed stage productions including The Chronicles of the Cross and Recover All.
Her notable achievements include being a featured performer at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater Inaugural Opening, participating in the Detroit Music Awards Aretha Franklin Memorial Tribute, singing as a member of the internationally syndicated choir for Aretha Franklin’s Home Going Celebration, being awarded Downriver’s Best Singer in
2019 and 2021, and being recognized in Detroit’s Black Who’s Who in 2019.
As she enters this sacred season of pastoral installation, Dr. Whitsett stands as a prepared, prayerful, and purpose-driven leader. Her journey reflects a life surrendered to God’s will, a commitment to the work of the Kingdom, and a desire to serve God’s people with humility, wisdom, and love
Deacon Rodger Johnson
Chair of Deacons Ministry
About
(313) 884-6648
info@mtpleasantch.org
21150 Moross Rd. Detroit, MI 48226
Trustee Thomas Ambrose
Chair of Finance Ministry
About
(313) 884-6648
info@mtpleasantch.org
21150 Moross Rd. Detroit, MI 48226
Ministerial Staff
Rev. Erica Hall
Assistant Pastor, Spiritual Formation, Leadership Dev. and Financial Ministry
About
Rev. Erica Hall answered the call to ministry in 2008 with a heart that burns to set the captives free. She places great emphasis on personal spiritual growth boldly declares her ministry is for the edification of the saints, thereby operating in a powerful prophetic ministry, continually speaking words of encouragement to the body of Christ. It is this passion, which inspired her to focus on walking along-side individuals in a Spiritual Formation and Leadership Development, to assist in the maturing of their ministry callings and spiritual gifting’s.
She also ministers in the financial marketplace as President and CEO of a thriving financial planning and investment management firm, Erica Hall Wealth Advisors, and is dedicated to using her practice to the building of God’s Kingdom. She developed a series of Biblically–based teachings, sermons and seminars called – FinancialRevelations®, to impart Kingdom principals and resources for managing finances God’s way.
Rev. Hall’s style of ministry has been noted as “insightful, spiritual teaching and practical application” as she seeks to inspire holiness among the people of God. She is anointed to usher the saints before the presence of God’s glory through Praise and Worship, and believes “it is what we were created for.”
She also ministers in the financial marketplace as President and CEO of a thriving financial planning and investment management firm, Erica Hall Wealth Advisors, and is dedicated to using her practice to the building of God’s Kingdom. She developed a series of Biblically–based teachings, sermons and seminars called – FinancialRevelations®, to impart Kingdom principals and resources for managing finances God’s way.
Rev. Hall’s style of ministry has been noted as “insightful, spiritual teaching and practical application” as she seeks to inspire holiness among the people of God. She is anointed to usher the saints before the presence of God’s glory through Praise and Worship, and believes “it is what we were created for.”
Rev. De’Anna Caston
Youth Pastor
About
Minister De’Anna M. Caston is a native of Brookhaven, MS. She received Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt. Wade MBC, under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Samuel L. Brown. After her father was called into the ministry, the family later joined Beulah Chapel M.B. Church, under his leadership. There, evangelism and the love for God’s people were ignited in her life.
Minister Caston migrated to Michigan in August of 2012 where she continued demonstrating her commitment to Christ, and service to God’s people. In 2017, she was licensed to Minister under the leadership of the late Pastor Christopher J. Whitsett and Rev. Dr. Kimberly R. Whitsett, of The Truth MBC. Upon the passing of Pastor Christopher J. Whitsett, she a-joined with the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Dr. James J. Minnick, Pastor, where she now serves as an Associate Minister and Social Media Evangelism Manager. What she is learning is that this Christian journey is a continuum of what has been birthed, taught and instilled in her as a child. One of Caston’s favorite verses is Philippians 1:6 which reminds her that, “He who has begun a good work in me, shall continue it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Minister Caston migrated to Michigan in August of 2012 where she continued demonstrating her commitment to Christ, and service to God’s people. In 2017, she was licensed to Minister under the leadership of the late Pastor Christopher J. Whitsett and Rev. Dr. Kimberly R. Whitsett, of The Truth MBC. Upon the passing of Pastor Christopher J. Whitsett, she a-joined with the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Dr. James J. Minnick, Pastor, where she now serves as an Associate Minister and Social Media Evangelism Manager. What she is learning is that this Christian journey is a continuum of what has been birthed, taught and instilled in her as a child. One of Caston’s favorite verses is Philippians 1:6 which reminds her that, “He who has begun a good work in me, shall continue it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
MIT Walter Bridgewater
Evangelism Explosion
Rev. Tom Hollingshed
Leadership Trainer
About
Tommy Terrell Hollingshed, the baby of his family, was the 16th child born to Charlie and Ollie Hollingshed of Musella, GA. Raised in a deeply religious home it’s no wonder that out of his 6 older brothers, 3 became ministers . Tom served in the United States Army; retired from Chrysler Corporation. For 51 years he has been married to his doll, Selena James. They were blessed with 4 beautiful daughters ,7 grandchildren & 1 great grandchild. In 1998, their youngest daughter and namesake Tomi-Terre’ Selene passed away. Tom’s favorite pastime is reading and discussing the Bible, singing, trying to solve the world’s problems and promoting the great state of Georgia.
At Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church Tom was a Deacon serving as a co-chair of the Deacon Board, a member of the Male Chorus, Coach of the Boys Basketball team and driver in the Bus Ministry. He received his Diploma of Theology from Tennessee School of Religion. Under Pastor James J. Minnick, he was ordained a licensed minister. Well over 15 years ago, Tom accepted his calling to Pastor at Shay Lake Non-Denominational Christian Church in Silverwood, Michigan. Under Pastor Hollingshed’s leadership Shay Lake added both a Male Chorus and a blooming Youth Department. He retired as Pastor back in 2012. Rev. Hollingshed is currently back home at the Mount serving with the Ministerial Staff. It can be stated that this Man of GOD has a personality that illuminates love. Reverend Tom T. Hollingshed has touched the lives of many in both his family and community.
At Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church Tom was a Deacon serving as a co-chair of the Deacon Board, a member of the Male Chorus, Coach of the Boys Basketball team and driver in the Bus Ministry. He received his Diploma of Theology from Tennessee School of Religion. Under Pastor James J. Minnick, he was ordained a licensed minister. Well over 15 years ago, Tom accepted his calling to Pastor at Shay Lake Non-Denominational Christian Church in Silverwood, Michigan. Under Pastor Hollingshed’s leadership Shay Lake added both a Male Chorus and a blooming Youth Department. He retired as Pastor back in 2012. Rev. Hollingshed is currently back home at the Mount serving with the Ministerial Staff. It can be stated that this Man of GOD has a personality that illuminates love. Reverend Tom T. Hollingshed has touched the lives of many in both his family and community.
Min. Connie Harton Malabed
Evangelism Explosion
About
Connie Harton Malabed and her family became part of Greater Mount Tabor MBC within a year of their move from Jasper, Alabama to Detroit, Michigan in 1968. It was at Greater Mount Tabor that she received Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Her mother, Bonnie, was relentless and committed to the spiritual training of her children. Connie and her siblings attended Sunday School and Morning Worship regularly. They also attended Vacation Bible School annually. Connie, being a proud product of Detroit Public Schools, enjoyed sharing her skill sets as she worked in various ministries such as Vacation Bible School, Youth ministry and Music ministry. Connie’s passion for music and young people set her on the path for studying music education where she is Vocal Music Teacher and Choral Director in Detroit Public Schools Community District. Connie is married to the love of her life and colleague Ronald.
On the first Sunday of March 2009, Connie responded to God’s call to move her membership from Greater Mount Tabor to Mount Pleasant MBC. Connie discovered her passion for witnessing when Deacon Walter Bridgewater invited her to become part of the Evangelism Explosion Ministry in the Fall of 2011. By January 2013 Connie became a Certified Evangelism Explosion Trainer. Connie also became part of the Nursing Home Outreach Ministry where teams visit each week to teach Bible lessons. Most recently, Connie answered the call to ministry on October 29, 2015. In process of answering the call to ministry, God gave Connie a vision to add an outreach component to the Evangelism Explosion Ministry which will be “Healing for the Homeless.” Connie is currently studying and training for her ordination. She is trusting God to help her meet all requirements by November 2018 for her ordination.
On the first Sunday of March 2009, Connie responded to God’s call to move her membership from Greater Mount Tabor to Mount Pleasant MBC. Connie discovered her passion for witnessing when Deacon Walter Bridgewater invited her to become part of the Evangelism Explosion Ministry in the Fall of 2011. By January 2013 Connie became a Certified Evangelism Explosion Trainer. Connie also became part of the Nursing Home Outreach Ministry where teams visit each week to teach Bible lessons. Most recently, Connie answered the call to ministry on October 29, 2015. In process of answering the call to ministry, God gave Connie a vision to add an outreach component to the Evangelism Explosion Ministry which will be “Healing for the Homeless.” Connie is currently studying and training for her ordination. She is trusting God to help her meet all requirements by November 2018 for her ordination.
MIT Twonta Jones
About
A product of Newark, New Jersey, Twonta Davis Jones was raised in the city of her birth. Completing her early education there, she took her first steps into adulthood by moving to Daytona Beach, Florida where she attended her alma matter, historic Bethune Cookman College. A 1992 graduate, not surprisingly, she majored in music and received her degree in Vocal Performance (Opera). Over the years, Twonta (or “T” as she is known) has been blessed to travel and perform at some of the most prestigious concert venues in the world. A featured vocalist with both the Bethune Cookman Concert Chorale and Morgan State University Concert Choir, under the direction of the renowned Dr. Nathan Carter, she has blessed thousands with her inspiring and impressive vocal stylings. Spreading both love and the gospel, she has also traveled across the oceans and performed overseas in Germany and Switzerland. Her U.S. highlights include memorable performances at the famed Metropolitan Opera House and historic Lincoln Center in New York. Although formerly trained, T’s exceptional musical gifts are both natural and God-given.
Skilled in a variety of forms and styles, including gospel, jazz, opera, R&B and pop, she is an anointed and gifted vocalist who “lives” in the lyrics and music she sings. A passionate believer and worshiper, most recently, the Lord revealed and blessed her with the call to ministry where she serves as a minister-in-training at Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit under the leadership of her pastor, Dr. James J. Minnick. Collectively, she views these gifts as blessings and holds them as among her most precious possessions, while dedicating them all to His glory.
With many passions and interests, “T” is an avid reader, enjoys crafting, music, the performing arts, studying the Word, and spending quality time with family and friends. An advocate and champion for young people and education, as a youth mentor and counselor, she embraces the seven years she spent working with students and other youth as an administrator at Morgan State where she took great care and pride in ensuring the emotional, housing and advisory needs of her students were met. Despite the accolades and accomplishments, “T’s” life changed dramatically and forever when she committed to her husband and life partner, Randy L. Jones. Also musically gifted, together, they are beyond blessed and proud of their two daughters, Stephanie Louise and Nya Louise, who have already embraced their own “calling” and special musical gifts. “I Will Sing Unto The Lord A New Song … Yea, I Will Sing!”
Skilled in a variety of forms and styles, including gospel, jazz, opera, R&B and pop, she is an anointed and gifted vocalist who “lives” in the lyrics and music she sings. A passionate believer and worshiper, most recently, the Lord revealed and blessed her with the call to ministry where she serves as a minister-in-training at Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit under the leadership of her pastor, Dr. James J. Minnick. Collectively, she views these gifts as blessings and holds them as among her most precious possessions, while dedicating them all to His glory.
With many passions and interests, “T” is an avid reader, enjoys crafting, music, the performing arts, studying the Word, and spending quality time with family and friends. An advocate and champion for young people and education, as a youth mentor and counselor, she embraces the seven years she spent working with students and other youth as an administrator at Morgan State where she took great care and pride in ensuring the emotional, housing and advisory needs of her students were met. Despite the accolades and accomplishments, “T’s” life changed dramatically and forever when she committed to her husband and life partner, Randy L. Jones. Also musically gifted, together, they are beyond blessed and proud of their two daughters, Stephanie Louise and Nya Louise, who have already embraced their own “calling” and special musical gifts. “I Will Sing Unto The Lord A New Song … Yea, I Will Sing!”
Rev. Sandra Sanders
Pastoral Care
About
Rev. Sandra Sanders was raised in a Christian home where she first found her love for the Lord. Between her home and catholic schooling she began to find herself through prayer and devotion. Taking time to develop her spiritual strength, she stayed active in her community through her work for Detroit Public Schools. In her walk with the Lord she was led to birth a new ministry for girls called Dare to Dream Ministry.
During one of her life challenges of caring for her ailing mother Sandra’s prayer life increased with power. Later, after her mother made her transition to be with the Lord she decided it was time for her to step out on faith and pursue her spiritual passion for prayer.
Reverend Sanders was ordained on November 16, 2014 and continues to grow in God through her love and faithfulness.
During one of her life challenges of caring for her ailing mother Sandra’s prayer life increased with power. Later, after her mother made her transition to be with the Lord she decided it was time for her to step out on faith and pursue her spiritual passion for prayer.
Reverend Sanders was ordained on November 16, 2014 and continues to grow in God through her love and faithfulness.
Rev. Linda Parker
About
I was raised in a blended family household. My parents were active Christians and ensured that I was acquainted with the teachings of Christ and the church from an early age. I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior at age four, and have been highly active in the church since that time.
Bible study has always been an integral part of my life. Teaching the Word of God has always been a desire for me. I have held various leadership roles and teaching positions in my local church and District Association, over the years. I have taught in Christian Education since 1975 and have extensively studied to show myself approved unto God. I received my call to the preaching ministry in 2007, however, I did not accept the call until 2010. After accepting the call, I started a proactive path towards Seminary training in 2011. My heart’s desire is to preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for It is God’s Power of Salvation.
Bible study has always been an integral part of my life. Teaching the Word of God has always been a desire for me. I have held various leadership roles and teaching positions in my local church and District Association, over the years. I have taught in Christian Education since 1975 and have extensively studied to show myself approved unto God. I received my call to the preaching ministry in 2007, however, I did not accept the call until 2010. After accepting the call, I started a proactive path towards Seminary training in 2011. My heart’s desire is to preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for It is God’s Power of Salvation.