Pastor Marcus Gibson Leads Missionary Baptist Association with Dedication to Service and Faith

By Janell Williams

Reverend Dr. Marcus J. Gibson, the current moderator of the Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Association (MBA) in Columbus, Georgia, has become a key figure in local faith communities, balancing his role as pastor, educator, and community leader. As a highly respected minister, he has dedicated his life to both spiritual leadership and community service.

Dr. Gibson, who also serves as the pastor of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, has led the church since 1999. His leadership extends beyond the pulpit; he has been a strong advocate for education, leadership development, and outreach within the community and the broader Missionary Baptist denomination.

"The mission that we give, the finances that we give, everything is an expression of God's grace to the receiver with the hopes that the receiver then will respond with faith in God, because there's a connection," Gibson said. "We believe that a person who walks close to God will always have their needs met."

Dr. Gibson is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He went on to complete a Master of Divinity degree at the Morehouse School of Religion (MSR) at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), followed by a Doctor of Ministry degree from McCormick Theological Seminary. Additionally, Dr. Gibson holds Level One Clinical Pastoral Education training from St. Francis Hospital.

He is also a former United States Army officer, having served from 1995 to 1999, an experience that further shaped his commitment to leadership and service.

In his role as the Moderator of the Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Association, Dr. Gibson has been instrumental in guiding the organization’s mission to spread the Gospel and strengthen local churches. The MBA’s work includes educational programs, community outreach, and support for fellow ministers and churches.

Dr. Gibson’s involvement in the National Baptist denomination also extends to his participation in Congress faculties at the local, state, and national levels. He previously served as the Dean of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia Congress of Christian Education and has remained a consistent voice of influence within the larger Baptist community.

Dr. Gibson is deeply involved in civic and community-based organizations throughout the Columbus area. As pastor of Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church, he has led numerous initiatives focused on spiritual growth, youth development, and community outreach. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and a Master Mason of Electric Light Lodge #45, Arkansas Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliate.

His work extends beyond religious leadership; Dr. Gibson is passionate about supporting local organizations that empower families and individuals to achieve their full potential.

"Anytime you're able to build relationships, that's an opportunity to grow. Relationships become the first line of influence on a person. We are all influenced by relationships, good or bad, so my intent as a moderator is to be the element in helping cultivate those relationships with local church leaders," Gibson said.

Looking ahead, Dr. Gibson remains committed to expanding the reach of both the Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Association and Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church. His future goals include continuing the MBA’s mission to provide educational opportunities and community support, as well as developing new leadership within the church and association.

"I believe that the hope and help for churches like ours is to be able to embrace change that comes generationally," Gibson said.

Dr. Gibson is the proud father of two children, MarDarius Renard and MarKayla Carrie Beatrice. He remains a devoted family man, cherishing his role as a father and balancing his ministry with a strong commitment to his family.

He continues to be a source of spiritual guidance, dedicated to the advancement of God’s kingdom and remains a vital part of the Columbus community.

Greater Shady Grove Missionary Baptist Church

3000 12th Avenue Columbus, GA 31904

706-322-7039

Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Association

706-327-5135