from the pastor's desk

Reverend Anthony L. Grier born in Waterloo, Iowa in 1975. Youngest of two children to Annie K. Hayes, formerly Annie Grier. Reverend Grier was raised in Rockford, IL. After moving to Illinois, at an early age, he attended Haskell Elementary, John F. Kennedy Middle School and graduated from Auburn High School, Class of 1993. Reverend Grier furthered his education by attending Highland Community College where he began studies for engineering and computer data base. He played college basketball for one year at Rock Valley College, later receiving his bachelor’s degree in biblical studies at Rock River Christian College. Reverend Grier achieved many other certificates and awards for learning. Reverend Grier is married to Jennifer Grier and the father of 4 children, Tavian Grier, Talani Grier, Tyler Ingram, and Mario Manns. After being taught by his grandmother, the late Evangelist Leora McMillian, Reverend Grier began his journey as a musician playing as the lead guitarist for the gospel quartet group, The New Royal Travelers, and various churches. Reverend Grier became minister of music, ministering through the string instrument at New Direction Fellowship Church, formerly New Direction Baptist Church in 1997 under the leadership of Pastor Rev. Dr. Clearance L. Holman. In 2008 Reverend Grier returned to New Direction Fellowship Church, where he then began to serve at a different capacity, returning as a deacon. Which then furthered into becoming chairman of deacons for 2 years. Working closely with the Pastor and assisting in various areas. In 2010 he announced his calling to the ministry at New Direction Fellowship Church under the pastoral leadership of Dr. Clearance L. Holman. After a short period of time, in 2010, Reverend Grier was appointed as interim pastor of New Direction Fellowship Church. Reverend Grier continued teaching and preaching the gospel. February of 2012 Reverend Grier was called to Progressive M. B. Church in Rockford, IL. As was one of the top candidates for the senior pastoral position. Reverend Grier was installed as pastor July 29, 2012. Where he served as senior pastor for 6 years. In November of 2018 Reverend Grier was given a new assignment to True Spirit Baptist Church in Colorado Springs, CO. Pastor Grier has continued with strong leadership abilities and expectations of all those in leadership positions and continuing to attend various workshops and biblical seminars. Pastor Grier has continued to empower the people through the Word of God and his powerful teaching and preaching. The vision, that has been set, is that we must push to remain healthy believers in the Word and as a church to embrace all with Christ like love and to focus on growth and maturity in Christ. Pastor Grier is a believer that if we all were available to all those who are lost and accept them for who they are then the world would be a better place.