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About Pastor

Rev. Leon F. Parker, Iii

Reverend Leon F. Parker, III is a dynamic servant leader, scholar, and pastor who currently serves as the beloved Pastor of Unity Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church in Bessemer, Alabama. Known for his deep commitment to faith, education, and community transformation, Reverend Parker has faithfully served the CME Church for over 17 years, with a ministry journey that has taken him across Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.

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A proud honors graduate of Miles College, Reverend Parker earned his Bachelor of Arts in English in 2012, laying the foundation for his theological and academic pursuits. He continued his studies at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where he received his Master of Divinity from the Phillips School of Theology in 2015. Never one to stop learning, Reverend Parker is currently pursuing his Juris Doctorate at Miles School of Law, with anticipated completion in 2026—demonstrating a powerful blend of faith, intellect, and advocacy.

An ordained Elder in full connection with the CME Church, Reverend Parker has served in a variety of influential leadership roles within the denomination. He is the National Secretary for One Church One School: A Community Partnership Program and previously served with distinction as Treasurer of the Connectional Young Adult Ministry (CYAM). His leadership reflects a steadfast commitment to uplifting people and institutions through service and strategy.

In August 2021, Reverend Parker returned to his alma mater, Miles College, to serve as Vice President of Student Life and Engagement, Dean of Chapel, and Assistant Professor of Religion. In these roles, he worked at the intersection of faith, education, and civic responsibility—mentoring students, shaping spiritual formation, and inspiring a culture of excellence. In December 2023, under the leadership of President Bobbie Knight, he was appointed Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Chapel, where he continues to champion student development and holistic success.

In August 2023, Reverend Parker extended his impact beyond the college campus when he was appointed to the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham—an organization committed to igniting the power and promise of youth through mentorship.

A proud member of the Omicron Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Reverend Parker exemplifies the fraternity’s motto of “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.”

He is married to Nathalie Nelson Parker, President of Civitas Consulting Group, a firm they co-founded in 2018. Together, they are the proud parents of their son, Leon F. Parker, IV. The Parkers are deeply committed to building thriving communities, nurturing the next generation of leaders, and living out their shared calling of transformational leadership and service.

Whether from the pulpit, the classroom, or the boardroom, Reverend Parker continues to guide institutions and individuals toward purpose, excellence, and faithful impact.

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