Dr. John S. Little, a native of Hazlehurst, Mississippi, is a dedicated pastor, community leader, and servant of Christ. After fulfilling his military service obligations, he relocated to Columbus, Ohio, where he found his spiritual home at Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Bishop Donald J. Washington. His commitment to serving the Lord became evident as he immersed himself in various ministries, honing his leadership and pastoral skills.
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Dr. Little answered his call to the ministry by delivering his first sermon on March 18, 1990. His passion for spreading the Gospel and growing involvement in the church led to his ordination on January 8, 1995. From that point forward, Dr. Little took on significant roles within the church, serving as both the Christian Education Director and Church Administrator, where he guided the church’s spiritual education programs and operational management until December 2003.
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On April 9, 2000, Dr. Little responded to God's call to lead Resurrection Missionary Baptist Church. As Senior Pastor, he envisioned a church that went beyond the sanctuary's walls, reaching out to the broader community. His vision materialized through the founding of the Koinonia Development Corporation (CDC), an organization designed to bridge the gap between the church and the residents of Southside Columbus. Through holistic ministry efforts, including evangelism, outreach programs, and social services, Dr. Little ensured that Resurrection Missionary Baptist Church became a beacon of hope and support for its community.
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In a new chapter of his ministry, Dr. Little accepted the call to serve as the sixth pastor of Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church on September 29, 2024. Returning to the church where his spiritual journey began, he brings a wealth of experience, vision, and passion to lead the congregation forward while continuing the legacy of his predecessors.
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His leadership extends beyond his local congregation. Dr. Little is deeply involved in several prominent religious organizations and holds key leadership roles. He currently serves as the President of the Baptist Pastors Conference of Columbus and Vicinity, guiding fellow pastors in their shared mission of spiritual leadership. He is also a former Moderator of the Eastern Union Missionary Baptist Association, Inc., where he provided direction and support to churches across the region. In addition, Dr. Little is an active member of the Baptist Ministerial Alliance of Columbus and Vicinity, the Ohio Baptist General Convention, the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., the NAACP, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Rho Chi Sigma Chapter.
Dr. Little's academic achievements reflect his commitment to theological study and spiritual growth. He earned his Bachelor of Ministry degree from Trinity College, followed by a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. His education has equipped him to approach ministry with both a practical and deeply theological perspective, allowing him to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a heart for service.
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Outside of his ministry work, Dr. Little is a devoted family man. He and his wife, LaDonna, have been blessed with a son, JeVon, and a granddaughter, JeVonna, who continue to inspire him in both his personal and pastoral life.
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Dr. John S. Little's legacy is one of visionary leadership, faithful service, and a deep love for God’s people. His tireless dedication to both his church and the broader community has left a lasting impact, making him a respected and influential figure in both local and national Baptist circles.