Since joining New Jerusalem Worship Center in 1988, Reverend Sondra Townsend-Browne has devoted nearly four decades to serving, strengthening, and helping advance the ministry of the church. What began with a heart for young people as Youth Coordinator grew into an expanding ministry of Christian education, leadership development, community outreach, and congregational service. Ordained as a Deacon in 2000, she subsequently served as Director of Christian Education, equipping teachers and leaders, developing ministry programs and curriculum, and encouraging members to discover and use their God-given gifts.
In 2009, Reverend Browne answered the call to preach the Gospel under the pastoral leadership of Bishop Calvin Rice and was ordained into the Gospel Ministry in 2014, the same year she began serving as Executive Minister. In that role, she has helped translate the vision of New Jerusalem into ministry through strategic planning, administration, financial planning, staff and leadership development, and the coordination of the church’s diverse ministries. Her service has also extended beyond the walls of the sanctuary through youth and senior initiatives, literacy and educational programs, food and community outreach, mentoring, and programs designed to strengthen individuals and families.
Throughout every season of her tenure, Reverend Browne’s ministry has been guided by a simple conviction: ministry is ultimately about people—helping them grow in faith, recognize their potential, discover their gifts, and become equipped to serve others. Her legacy at New Jerusalem is reflected not only in the ministries and programs she has helped build, but in the people she has had the privilege of encouraging, developing, and serving along the way.