Fellowship Voice

Rev. Raymond Donald Ford, Jr.

Rev. Raymond Donald Ford, Jr. is a respected pastor, mentor, and retired Presiding Elder of the Fort Valley-Savannah District of the Sixth Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Across decades of pastoral ministry, denominational leadership, and community service, he has faithfully shepherded congregations while investing deeply in families, ministers, and future generations of Christian leaders. Known for his pastoral wisdom, humility, and commitment to servant leadership, Rev. Ford's ministry has been marked by a steadfast dedication to building bridges between the Church and the communities it serves. Following his retirement as Presiding Elder, he embarked on a remarkable visitation journey, returning to each of his former pastoral appointments to honor congregations with the Beacon of Light Award, celebrating their continued faithfulness and community impact. This journey reflected his enduring belief that ministry is measured not only by years of service but by relationships cultivated, lives transformed, and legacies preserved. Rev. Ford is the author of The Ford Way: 92 Reflective Principles That Build Bridges Between Family and Ministry, a collection of practical leadership principles drawn from more than nine decades of life, faith, family, and ministry. The work encourages pastors, parents, church leaders, and believers to cultivate lives of integrity, compassion, mentorship, and faithful stewardship while recognizing that purpose continues throughout every season of life. His ministry reflects the rich heritage of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, emphasizing biblical preaching, pastoral care, leadership development, intergenerational mentorship, and Christian service. Through his writing and lifelong example, Rev. Ford continues to remind readers that the greatest measure of success is not simply what one accomplishes, but how many others are strengthened, encouraged, and equipped because of a life faithfully lived.