From the Pastor's desk



Dear Reader,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am both humbled and delighted that you have taken a moment to learn more about our ministry and the journey God has led me on as a servant in His vineyard.

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Reflecting on the path of ministry, I am continually awestruck by the profound privilege it is to serve the people of God. Ministry, at its core, is about being an instrument of God’s grace, a conduit through which His love, mercy, and truth flow freely to touch the hearts and lives of those we encounter.


There is an indescribable joy in witnessing the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of individuals and communities. Each day brings new opportunities to share the Gospel, to uplift the downtrodden, to comfort the grieving, and to celebrate the victories, both big and small, in the lives of our congregation members and beyond.


Serving in ministry has taught me the value of authentic relationships—connecting with people not just on a spiritual level but also in the day-to-day realities of life. Jesus Christ exemplified this through His earthly ministry, engaging with people from all walks of life, showing us that ministry is not confined to the walls of a church but is lived out in the streets, homes, and hearts of those we are called to serve.


The journey of ministry is not without its challenges. Yet, it is in navigating these moments of hardship that we truly come to rely on the strength, guidance, and peace that only God can provide. These experiences not only deepen our faith but also enrich our capacity to empathize with and minister to others more effectively.


Perhaps one of the greatest joys of ministry is the sense of community and fellowship it fosters. Being part of the body of Christ means we are never alone. We share in each other’s burdens, encourage one another in our faith, and celebrate together in our triumphs. This beautiful tapestry of shared life is a constant reminder of God’s provision and presence among His people.


As you continue to explore what it means to be a part of our faith community, my prayer is that you, too, will experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from serving and being served in the body of Christ. Whether you are called to ministry in a vocational sense or are seeking ways to contribute your gifts and talents to the work of God in other capacities, know that your participation is valuable and deeply appreciated.


Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about my journey in ministry. I am excited for the opportunity to get to know you better and to welcome you into our church family. May the Lord bless you and keep you, may He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you, may the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. In Christ’s Love,

Rev. Sterling L. Guess, Sr.





I am a distinguished individual whose life journey encapsulates a remarkable blend of service, education, leadership, and commitment to fostering positive change within communities. Born and raised in Richmond, Indiana, my early education was rooted in the values and experiences provided by the Richmond Community School System, from which I graduated in 1985. This foundational period set the stage for my life dedicated to learning, service, and leadership.

In 1985, I began my first tour of service in the Navy, embarking on a journey that allowed me to travel the world and broaden my perspectives. During this initial stint, which lasted until 1989, I served onboard the USS Vulcan AR-5. This period was about more than just serving my country it was an invaluable phase of life, offering me experiences that would significantly shape my future endeavors.

After being honorably discharged in 1989, my passion for culinary arts took me to culinary school in Washington, D.C. This interlude in my life was a time of growth and exploration in a field entirely different from the military. Yet, the call to serve was ingrained deeply within me, and in 1992, I found myself drawn back to the Navy, marking the beginning of my second tour of service. This decision to re-enlist demonstrated my ongoing commitment to my country and personal development.

My second stint, from 1992 to 1997, in which I served onboard the USS La Salle AGF-3, USS Mt. Whitney LCC-20, and the Kingsbay Naval Submarine Base allowed me to further exhibit the leadership and commitment that are the hallmarks of my character. These qualities were not only crucial in my naval career but would also become integral to my professional and ministerial work later in life. The experiences gained from both tours of service in the Navy have been foundational, teaching me lessons of discipline, leadership, and the importance of serving a cause greater than oneself.

My educational journey continued in 2005 when I enrolled at Kaplan University. In 2008, I graduated with honors, earning a degree in Business Management with a focus on Human Resources. My thirst for knowledge and personal development did not stop there in 2012, I pursued further education at Concordia University's accelerated graduate program. A year later, I graduated with a master’s in education, focusing on Curriculum and Instruction and a minor in early childhood education. These academic achievements reflect my commitment to excellence and lifelong learning.

My personal interests are as diverse as my professional experiences. I enjoy old movies featuring African American actors and have developed an appreciation for African American art. An avid reader, I also enjoy golf, playing video games, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends. These interests not only provide relaxation and enjoyment but also enrich my understanding of culture and society.

In 1996, my spiritual journey took a significant turn when I was licensed as a minister, followed by my ordination in 1997. Over 28 years of ministry, I have served as pastor of several churches, demonstrating my deep commitment to my faith and community. My roles have extended beyond pastoral duties to include being a Sunday School Teacher, President of the Singles Ministry, Associate Minister, Youth Pastor, and more. My leadership extends to serving as the First Vice Moderator of the Gethsemane MB Association and as the President of the Congress of Christian Education of the Mt. Calvary MB Association, 1st Vice-president of the Candler County NAACP, chairman of the Economic Development, Education, and Ministers committees of the Candler County NAACP, among other positions.

In addition, I am a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., which is a profound honor that embodies my commitment to brotherhood, scholarship, and service. This affiliation has not only enriched my life with lifelong friendships and mentorships but has also instilled in me a deep sense of duty to give back to my community and lead by example. The fraternity's ideals of culture, service, and leadership continuously inspire me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life, fostering an environment where I can grow personally and professionally while contributing to the greater good.

My commitment to education and community service is evident in my current role as a teacher in the Financial Services pathway within the Chatham County Public School System. My certifications in business, distribution and warehouse, and financial literacy underscore my versatility and dedication to preparing the next generation for success.

Celebrating 25 years of marriage with Venus, I deeply cherish my role as a devoted husband and father to our two sons, Sterling L. Guess, Jr., and Sandaius A. Guess. Our family is a living reflection of my core principles: steadfast dedication, the pursuit of knowledge, and a commitment to serving others. They are my foundation, offering unwavering love, support, and a sense of community. Their influence motivates me to excel, provides comfort in challenging times, and joy in moments of triumph. The immeasurable value of my family has profoundly shaped my identity and continues to steer my path in life.

I possess a unique combination of skills and experiences that make me an exceptional leader, educator, and minister. My ability to motivate, guide, and inspire others is rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that life presents. Whether through my ministerial work, teaching, or community service, I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and the broader community. My life's work is a shining example of how dedication, education, and service can foster positive change and uplift those around us.