By Kofi Quaye, editor and publisher, mysteeknews.net, visionafricana.com
Born into a family rooted in ministry, Rev. Dr. Shanell E. Turpin is the second of three daughters of The Rev. Dr. Richard D. Turpin, pastor emeritus, and The Rev. Suzette E. Turpin. Her walk with Christ began early at Bethany Baptist Church, where she was baptized under the late Rev. Richard I. Headley Sr. From youth choir to Sunday School, she grew up learning the rhythm of service. Later, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Robert L. Bradley Sr., she discovered her love for Christian education—a passion that would define her ministry and life’s work.
Answering the Call
In 2005, Rev. Turpin answered the call to preach, licensed under Second Missionary Baptist Church and formally ordained in 2012. She poured herself into leadership at Second Baptist, serving as Sunday School superintendent, director of Christian education, and media communications lead, among other roles. Her journey was marked by perseverance—an unexpected diagnosis of multiple sclerosis interrupted her education, but faith fueled her resilience. Determined to continue, she earned multiple degrees and certificates, including a Doctor of Theology, a Master’s in Pastoral Counseling, and a Master of Theology. Her academic journey stretched from community college to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, with advanced studies at Harvard and Oxford—an extraordinary testament to discipline and faith.
Ministry Beyond the Pulpit
Rev. Dr. Turpin’s calling extends far beyond church walls. She has served as chaplain at nursing homes, correctional facilities, and rescue missions, as well as president of the Hudson River Frontier Missionary Baptist Association Young People’s Department. She just completed the presidency of Christian Education for Hudson River and is president of the Association’s Congress of Christian Education and vice president of Area 4 for the Empire Baptist Convention Congress of Christian Education. A proud member of the Pershing Angels Sorority, her influence blends faith, education, and community activism, touching lives across generations and institutions.
A Historic First
In October 2022, Rev. Dr. Turpin was elected pastor of Second Missionary Baptist Church, making history as the first female pastor in the church’s 134-year existence. Her leadership reflects her parents’ legacy, her sisters’ support, and even her beloved shih tzu terrier, Susie. Her beloved terrier died on June 19. But more than personal triumph, her story is one of divine appointment. As her church proclaims, she is “a gifted Woman of God” who sought to preach, teach, and inspire globally. Living proof that “God has the last say,” Rev. Dr. Shanell E. Turpin embodies the power of perseverance, faith, and service—an indelible example for this generation and the next.
VisionAfricaMedia 