DETROIT — Rev. Dr. Tellis Chapman of Detroit’s Galilee Missionary Baptist Church launched his campaign to become the 19th President of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.
The National Baptist Convention is the largest Black Baptist convention in the world, including nearly 8.5 million members representing over 21,000 churches within its global network.
The Convention’s purpose is to unite National Baptist churches, district associations, and state conventions in Christian evangelism through preaching, teaching, and healing.
Rev. Dr. Chapman’s campaign kickoff was held at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum where Rev. Chapman was joined by a host of state and local leaders and dignitaries, including Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Rev. Wendell Anthony of the NAACP, as well as other faith, business and community leaders.
To differentiate and distinguish between what’s really necessary, as opposed to what is superfluous and redundant, is to understand when it is time to shift,” said Rev. Dr. Tellis Chapman, candidate for president of the National Baptist Convention, USA. “We cannot continue on the same socio-religious and socio-political paths of redundancy and expect better results. God is about renewal and requires of us the courage and capacity for shifting…Let the shift begin.”
“In a city with a proud history of powerful and influential religious figures, Dr. Chapman has long been admired and acknowledged as one of the most widely respected pastors in our community,” said Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. “Without a doubt, I believe he is someone who richly deserves this honor. The National Baptist Convention would surely benefit from his experienced, principled leadership.”
“Rev. Chapman would be a great choice to serve as President of the National Baptist Convention. He has been a tireless advocate for Detroiters most in need of support and has backed up his advocacy with action. When COVID struck Detroit harder than most major cities, Rev. Chapman was one of the first to stand up and provide his church as a center to distribute free meals and PPE to residents.” said Mayor Mike Duggan. “Once the vaccine became available, his church partnered with the city as a community vaccination site to offer a familiar place of trust for residents who may have been hesitant to receive a vaccine. Rev. Chapman certainly would bring his values and energy to the role of President of the NBC.”
“Dr. Howard Thurman said of men ‘don’t ask what the world needs. ask what makes you come alive and go do it.’ Dr. Tellis Chapman has always been alive,” said Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit Branch NAACP. “I am so glad that he is now going forth to do it. As a result, the world of the church and the people it serves will be magnified in the eyesight of our lord.”
Originally from Newsom, Mississippi, Rev. Chapman relocated to Detroit nearly 40 years ago to become pastor of Galilee Missionary Baptist. He takes pride in developing clergy into healthy and proficient ministers.
Dr. Chapman currently sits as a board member of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. and also serves as a Director for the Pastors’ and Ministers’ Division. From 2010-2015, he was the Chairman of the Late-Night Worship services.
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