Jamal Bryant Announces Engagement to Karri Turner: Civil rights activist and popular Pastor Jamal Bryant announced over Memorial Day weekend in suburban Atlanta at the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church that he recently became engaged to his co-pastor Dr. Karri Turner. He proclaimed the news before his congregation last Sunday, May 26, and in front of millions of viewers on his livestream that she will be the church’s future “first lady.”
A Storied Past and a Promising Future
Jamal Bryant, known as an out-of-the-box preacher who has explored the Christian world by doing everything from appearing in reality shows to advocating for cannabis cultivation on church property, has had a tumultuous personal life. He has been linked to several high-profile women, most notably his ex-wife Gizelle Bryant, who joined Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of Potomac” years after their divorce, and R&B singer, Tweet, whom he dated for about a year.
However, little was known about his new love, Dr. Karri Turner, until now. Popular gossip maven Tasha K previously reported seeing the couple together at an ice cream shop in Florida, further fueling public curiosity.
The Big Announcement
“I’m grateful to God that today the Lord has given @mzkarribaby to be my wife and @newbirthmbc has a First Lady,” Bryant captioned a video of his announcement in front of an excited congregation. “My heart is overjoyed, and my destiny is in clear focus. Love always wins!!”
In the video, Bryant shared how he came to realize Turner was the one for him. “Sometimes your blessing will be right in front of your eyes, and you don’t even know,” he began. “You don’t even know what God’s got for you. An amazingly beautiful woman, an amazingly brilliant woman, last year she graduated with her doctorate, and I saw her walk across that stage and get her doctorate, and the Lord said, ‘You big dummy, what are you waiting on?’”
He continued, “I am so grateful to God that she has consented to be my wife. Would you help me thank God for Dr. Karri Turner? I can’t tell you how happy I am, how happy my family is, how happy my children are, and I hope my church is happy for me,” Bryant said as the congregation applauded and cheered.
Karri Turner: More Than Just a Co-Pastor
For those invested in the Christian woman empowerment circuit, Karri Turner is more than a new face; she is a sought-after author, preacher, and speaker. Her impressive achievements and dynamic presence have made her a significant figure in religious circles.
Turner expressed her excitement in an Instagram post, flashing her engagement ring. She kept her caption short and sweet: “And the Lord remembered her.”
The Reaction of Gizelle Bryant and Others
Bryant was previously in a high-profile relationship with Gizelle Bryant between 2002 and 2009, but their marriage ended due to the pastor’s infidelity. Nonetheless, the two have three daughters together–Grace, Adore, and Angel–who have often featured on the Bravo reality TV show. Gizelle commented on her ex-husband’s post, sending well wishes on this new chapter of love. “Congratulations! Very happy for you!” she wrote in the comments.
Past Controversies and Scandals
Bryant’s personal life has often been under the public microscope. In 2016, Latoya Shawntee Odom alleged that Bryant fathered a son with her a year earlier after initially encouraging her to have an abortion. Odom also claimed that Bryant was not consistently maintaining child support payments.
That same year, Bryant introduced R&B singer Charlene Keys, known by her stage name Tweet, as his “last lady” on “The Preachers” talk show. Their relationship reportedly ended in 2018.
Just days before officially taking the helm at New Birth, Bryant was forced to dismiss a claim from an Ohio businesswoman that she was pregnant with his child. “Bryant doesn’t know who this person is and has no current ties, no past relationship of any sort, nor any form of past history with this person. Regrettably, this is the unstable behavior of a social media stalker,” a spokesman for Bryant said.
Table: Key Facts About Jamal Bryant and Karri Turner
| Category | Jamal Bryant | Karri Turner |
|---|---|---|
| Current Role | Pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church | Co-Pastor at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church |
| Previous Relationships | Ex-wife Gizelle Bryant, dated R&B singer Tweet | Unknown |
| Controversies | Infidelity, paternity scandals | None known |
| Engagement Announcement | May 26, 2023 | May 26, 2023 |
| Public Reaction | Mixed, supportive from congregation and family | Supportive from church and followers |
A New Chapter for New Birth Missionary Baptist Church
The engagement of Jamal Bryant and Karri Turner marks a new chapter for New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. The congregation’s response was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting their support and excitement for the future. As Turner steps into the role of the church’s “first lady,” she brings with her a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.
Bryant’s announcement underscores his belief in the importance of recognizing and embracing blessings that are right in front of us. His journey with Turner, marked by public affirmation and personal growth, sets a hopeful tone for their future together.
Jamal Bryant and Karri Turner’s engagement has not only captured the attention of their congregation but also sparked interest in the wider Christian community. Their story of finding love and support within their spiritual journey serves as an inspiration. As they embark on this new chapter, their combined leadership promises to bring continued growth and positivity to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.
List of Famous Pastors in Georgia
Georgia has been home to many influential pastors who have shaped the spiritual landscape not only within the state but also across the nation. This list highlights some of the most renowned pastors who have left an indelible mark through their preaching, leadership, and community impact.
Dr. Charles Stanley
Church: First Baptist Church of Atlanta
Ministry: In Touch Ministries
Years Active: 1971-2020
Dr. Charles Stanley, pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, is a household name in the Christian community. Known for his clear and practical preaching, Stanley’s “In Touch” radio and TV ministry has reached millions globally. He has authored numerous books and was third in LifeWay’s recent survey of the most influential living Protestant pastors.
Andy Stanley
Church: North Point Community Church
Ministry: North Point Ministries
Years Active: 1995-Present
Andy Stanley, son of Charles Stanley, has carved out his own path as a pastor and leader. He founded North Point Community Church in 1995, which has become one of the largest churches in the United States. Stanley is known for his innovative use of satellite churches and video venues, and his book “Communicating for a Change” is a guide to his effective preaching style.
Dr. Jamal Bryant
Church: New Birth Missionary Baptist Church
Ministry: Empowerment Temple, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church
Years Active: 2000-Present
Dr. Jamal Bryant is the senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. A dynamic and charismatic leader, Bryant is known for his activism and involvement in social issues. He previously led Empowerment Temple in Baltimore and has been a prominent figure in the African-American church.
Creflo Dollar
Church: World Changers Church International
Ministry: Creflo Dollar Ministries
Years Active: 1986-Present
Creflo Dollar is the founder and senior pastor of World Changers Church International in College Park, Georgia. His ministry is known for its focus on prosperity theology. Dollar’s teachings and publications have a global reach, making him a significant figure in modern Christian circles.
Dr. Tony Evans
Church: Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship (Texas-based but significant influence in Georgia)
Ministry: The Urban Alternative
Years Active: 1976-Present
Although based in Texas, Dr. Tony Evans has had a significant impact in Georgia through his ministry, The Urban Alternative, and his extensive speaking engagements across the state. Evans is a respected pastor, teacher, and author known for his powerful and practical messages.
Gardner C. Taylor
Church: Concord Baptist Church of Christ, Brooklyn (significant influence in Georgia)
Years Active: 1948-1990
Gardner C. Taylor, often referred to as the “Dean of the Nation’s Black Preachers,” has had a profound influence on pastors in Georgia and beyond. His eloquent and passionate preaching style set a standard for African-American pastors nationwide.
Dr. Michael Youssef
Church: The Church of The Apostles
Ministry: Leading The Way
Years Active: 1987-Present
Dr. Michael Youssef is the founding pastor of The Church of The Apostles in Atlanta and the leader of Leading The Way, a global ministry that reaches audiences through television, radio, and digital media. His strong theological teaching and focus on evangelism have made him a prominent figure in the Christian community.
Bishop Eddie Long
Church: New Birth Missionary Baptist Church
Years Active: 1987-2017
Bishop Eddie Long was a well-known pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia, until his death in 2017. Under his leadership, the church grew significantly, becoming one of the largest African-American churches in the United States. Despite controversies, Long’s influence and impact on his congregation were substantial.
Louie Giglio
Church: Passion City Church
Ministry: Passion Conferences
Years Active: 2008-Present
Louie Giglio is the pastor of Passion City Church in Atlanta and the founder of the Passion Conferences, which have drawn thousands of young people to worship and seek a deeper relationship with Christ. His energetic and relevant preaching style has resonated with a younger generation.
Jentezen Franklin
Church: Free Chapel
Ministry: Jentezen Franklin Media Ministries
Years Active: 1989-Present
Jentezen Franklin is the senior pastor of Free Chapel, a multi-campus church based in Gainesville, Georgia. Known for his dynamic preaching and leadership, Franklin’s ministry reaches millions through television and his best-selling books. He also serves as a frequent speaker at national and international conferences.
Bishop Dale C. Bronner
Church: Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral
Ministry: Bronner Brothers Enterprises
Years Active: 1991-Present
Bishop Dale C. Bronner is the founder and pastor of Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral in Austell, Georgia. His church is known for its vibrant worship services and strong community involvement. Bronner is also a successful entrepreneur and author, influencing both the religious and business communities.
Table: Key Facts About Famous Pastors in Georgia
| Pastor | Church | Ministry | Years Active |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Charles Stanley | First Baptist Church of Atlanta | In Touch Ministries | 1971-2020 |
| Andy Stanley | North Point Community Church | North Point Ministries | 1995-Present |
| Dr. Jamal Bryant | New Birth Missionary Baptist Church | Empowerment Temple, New Birth | 2000-Present |
| Creflo Dollar | World Changers Church International | Creflo Dollar Ministries | 1986-Present |
| Dr. Tony Evans | Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship | The Urban Alternative | 1976-Present |
| Gardner C. Taylor | Concord Baptist Church of Christ | 1948-1990 | |
| Dr. Michael Youssef | The Church of The Apostles | Leading The Way | 1987-Present |
| Bishop Eddie Long | New Birth Missionary Baptist Church | 1987-2017 | |
| Louie Giglio | Passion City Church | Passion Conferences | 2008-Present |
| Jentezen Franklin | Free Chapel | Jentezen Franklin Media Ministries | 1989-Present |
| Bishop Dale C. Bronner | Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral | Bronner Brothers Enterprises | 1991-Present |
The state of Georgia has been a nurturing ground for many influential pastors who have significantly impacted both the local and global Christian community. From the legacy of Dr. Charles Stanley and the innovative approaches of Andy Stanley to the dynamic leadership of Jamal Bryant and Jentezen Franklin, these pastors have shaped the spiritual lives of millions. Their ministries continue to inspire, challenge, and lead countless individuals toward a deeper faith and commitment to their communities.
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