By: Kimberly J.
Amidst the vibrant community of Richmond, Virginia, a guiding light of inspiration and trailblazing leadership shines brightly through the efforts and vision of one remarkable individual – Reverend Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ. Dr. Gould-Champ serves as the Founding Visionary and former Senior Pastor of the Faith Community Baptist Church. She has dedicated nearly three decades to serving “the least and the left out,” embodying a commitment beyond mere words to tangible actions that uplift individuals and communities alike. In addition, Dr. Gould-Champ is the Associate Professor of Practical Theology at The Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University.
Dr. Gould-Champ’s journey began with an unwavering call to serve, leading her to establish Faith Community Baptist Church in March 1995. For 29 years, she steered this spiritual vessel with grace, wisdom, and an innovative approach to ministry that reached far beyond the church walls into the very fabric of the surrounding community. In January 2021, in a testament to her vision for shared leadership and sustainability, she passed on the pastoral reins to two Co-Senior Pastors, forming a unique triune leadership team poised to continue the church’s impactful legacy.
Her academic achievements are as impressive as her ministerial ones; she holds an earned doctorate in Educational Administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and received her Master of Divinity degree, Summa Cum Laude, from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University. However, Dr. Gould-Champ has made her mark within academia and is deeply ingrained in practical theology, as evidenced by her tenured position at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, where she serves as Chair of the Black Church Studies Department.
Dr. Gould-Champ’s influence extends into various realms of community service and development through initiatives such as Project Stay Connected/Stay on Point, which supports students at risk during seasons of virtual learning, partnerships aimed at providing transitional apartments for the homeless, and empowerment groups designed for women seeking growth and success against all odds.
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Patricia Gould-Champ
One cannot discuss Dr. Gould-Champ’s contributions without highlighting FAITH’s staple outreach ministries, which she has been instrumental in developing. From feeding programs like Tuesday All About Love Hospitality Feeding Ministry to enriching educational endeavors such as Spring Bible and Economic Enrichment Camps, each program reflects her holistic approach to ministry, addressing both spiritual needs and practical challenges.
In line with Romans 10:15 (NIV) which states “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news…”, Dr. Gould-Champ embodies this scripture through every facet of her life’s work – bringing good news not only through words but through impactful actions that have touched countless lives across Richmond’s East End communities.
“The Gospel According to Cancer: Reflections for Women with Cancer,” “Pamela Gets Baptized,” and “Pamela Goes to Church” are among her literary contributions offering insights into navigating life’s challenges while maintaining faith. These works further exemplify how Dr. Gould-Champ leverages every available platform to inspire hope.
As President of Community In Development Inc. (CID Inc.), a non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting inner-city residents in Richmond’s east end, Dr. Gould Champ employs a strategic blend of education, empowerment, and economic development strategies to foster sustainable community growth.
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Patricia Gould-Champ
Her relentless service has not gone unnoticed; being awarded The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for contributing over 4000 hours towards community service speaks volumes about her dedication towards making a difference in people’s lives.
Dr. Gould-Champ continues shaping future generations through her role in academia while simultaneously nurturing initiatives like Wii-TAP Center (Women in Intentional Training as Pastors), further cementing her commitment towards empowering women within pastoral roles – ensuring that future leaders carry forward the mantle with integrity and purpose.
In summary, the narrative arc woven throughout Reverend Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ’s endeavors paints a portrait of someone much more than a pastor or educator; she is a visionary leader whose life epitomizes service above self.
Through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram along with Faith Community Baptist Church’s website: https://www.fcbcrichmond.org, one can glimpse into the ongoing journey of this transformative figure, who continues guiding others towards fulfilling their divine purpose.
Published by: Martin De Juan
