Born in Hampton, Virginia, but raised primarily in Knoxville, TN, Bishop Darryl B Starnes was greatly impacted by the Christian nurture of his grandfather, the late Rev. Dr. J.A. Babington- Johnson and the First AME Zion Church, Knoxville, where his grandfather was the organizing pastor.  He gave his life to Christ at the age of 15.   Two years later, after excelling in academics and athletics (football, basketball, baseball, and track), he graduated from Fulton High School and entered the ministry.  He received the Bachelor of Arts Degree in History from Livingstone College, Salisbury, NC in 1979, the Master of Divinity Degree from Hood Theological Seminary, Salisbury in 1982, and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from Beeson Divinity School, Birmingham, AL IN 1998.  He was ordained a deacon in 1977, an elder in 1979, and was consecrated a bishop in 2008.  His ministry has concentrated in six areas: pastoring, evangelism, teaching. Community outreach, the episcopacy, and writing.  Episcopacy:  In 2008, he was consecrated the 96th Bishop in the line of succession; and for four years served as the Presiding Prelate of the Southwestern Delta Episcopal District, which comprises Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Mississippi, Texas, and West Tennessee- Mississippi Conferences.  In 2012, he became the Presiding Prelate of the Mid-West Episcopal District, which comprises Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, and Trinidad- Tobago Conferences.  He also served as Presiding Prelate of the Mid-West Administrative Boards: The American Bible Society, Health and Social Concerns, Public Relations and Historical Society, Worship and Ritual, and Growth and Church
Family: He is married to Sis. Camille Cullom Starnes, who is the daughter of an AME Zion Pastor, a native of Knoxville, a local preacher, and a graduate of Livingstone College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious Studies.  She served in the Church School Literature Department for eleven years, before becoming a Missionary Supervisor.  Hey are the proud parents of tree beautiful children; Rev. Alicia Courtney, Millicent, and Darryl Jr. and seven adorable grandchildren, Mya, Malachi, Kaiyon, Benjamin, Caleb, Jayelle, and Chloe.

   Rev. Dr. Patricia A. Gainer stands as a trailblazing leader, an extraordinary preacher, and a force of divine inspiration whose ministry transcends boundaries and transforms lives. Heralded as a woman after God's own heart, she has been anointed for this generation to bring deliverance, healing, and wholeness to people around the world. Pastor G (as she is affectionately known) is not just a pastor or speaker—she is a movement.
   A native of Greensboro, NC, she draws from her rich heritage as the eldest daughter of the late Patrick and Willie Mae Gainer and granddaughter of the late Mack J. and Hattie B. Gainer, raised by her grandparents in a home rooted in faith and love. At the tender age of twelve, Dr. Gainer experienced a profound encounter with the Lord that set her on a lifelong path of ministry and service.
   A dynamic preacher and prolific orator, Dr. Gainer proclaims the Gospel with unmatched authority and grace, captivating audiences with her passion, depth, and authenticity. Her sermons are not just messages—they are experiences that challenge the soul, renew the spirit, and inspire transformation. Known for her ability to discern hidden potential, she has made it her mission to cultivate the gifts and callings of those around her, ensuring they rise to their God-ordained destinies. Her philosophy is simple: every person has a purpose, and she is committed to helping them maximize their full potential in Christ.
   As a classically trained and accomplished vocalist, Pastor Gainer has shared her gift on stages alongside some of the greatest names in gospel music, including Luther Barnes, James Hall, the late Melvin and Tunesha Crispell, Pastor Martina Echols, and the late Lecresia Campbell. Her voice carries an anointing that ushers people into the presence of God, bringing healing, deliverance, and restoration to countless lives.
   Dr. Gainer’s academic and ministerial accomplishments further cement her as a leader of extraordinary caliber. She holds a BA in Music Performance from North Carolina A&T State University, a second Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Guilford College, and a Master of Divinity from Hood Theological Seminary. In May 2021, she earned her Doctor of Ministry degree with high honors, presenting a groundbreaking project, A Biblical Literacy Model for Equipping a 21st Century Rural Congregation: Zion Grove AME Zion Church, Rutherfordton, NC. She is currently pursuing an M.Ed. in College Counseling and Student Development at NC State University, demonstrating her relentless commitment to growth and excellence.
   Dr. Gainer’s pastoral leadership began in 2016 when she was entrusted with her first charge at Savannah AME Zion Church. She later led Zion Grove AME Zion Church, where her visionary leadership resulted in significant achievements, including paying off the church mortgage, acquiring critical resources, and overseeing major renovations. Currently, she serves as the proud pastor of the historic Shiloh AME Zion Church, where she continues to build a legacy of faith, innovation, and community transformation.
   In addition to her spiritual leadership, Dr. Gainer embodies what is recognized in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church as bi-vocational ministry. She serves as the Assistant Director of Community Standards at High Point University, where she helps students navigate better pathways for decision-making and develop a deeper awareness of their moral compass. Her role empowers students to recognize and build upon their intrinsic values, fostering a culture of accountability, growth, and self-discovery. This secular position not only complements her ministry but also reflects her unwavering commitment to equipping the next generation to thrive in every area of their lives.
Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Gainer’s influence extends through her dedication to service and empowerment. A proud member of the Greensboro Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, she embodies the principles of sisterhood, scholarship, and service on a grand scale. Her heart for God’s creation drives her to invest in the lives of others, inspiring them to flourish in their giftings and step boldly into their callings. Recognizing potential as a sacred trust, she tirelessly works to pull out the greatness in those around her, leaving an indelible impact wherever she goes.
Rev. Dr. Gainer’s life is deeply rooted in her favorite scripture, Micah 6:8:
"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
   This scripture reflects her dedication to justice, compassion, and humility in all areas of her life, from her ministry to her work in higher education and community standards. It encapsulates the way she strives to balance her spiritual calling with the practical needs of the people she serves, always keeping God’s guidance at the forefront.
With over two decades of ministry, Rev. Dr. Patricia Anne’ Gainer is a towering figure in the faith community, a sought-after speaker, and a respected leader whose influence continues to expand across churches, conferences, and global platforms. Her life’s work is a testament to her unwavering love for God, her dedication to empowering others, and her relentless pursuit of excellence in all she does.
   Rev. Dr. Patricia Anne’ Gainer: servant, leader, global change agent, and vessel of God’s glory. The stage is set, and the world is her platform.

 Stewardess Board