Dr. Elder Kip D. Johnson was born on July 30, 1968, to the late Leon Johnson and Doris Johnson of Siler City, North Carolina. At an early age, he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior, laying the foundation for a life of faith, service, and obedience to God’s call.

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Following his graduation from high school, Dr. Johnson entered the United States Army, where he honorably served his country for 20 years. His military career includes deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as stateside assignments at Fort Eustis, Virginia, and two tours at Fort Story, Virginia. Through discipline, leadership, and unwavering commitment, he rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer, retiring with distinction after two decades of exemplary service.

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Answering a higher call to ministry, Dr. Johnson pursued theological education with diligence and excellence. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Leo University, a Master of Divinity from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from New Brunswick Theological Seminary. His academic preparation, coupled with lived experience, equips him to preach, teach, and lead with wisdom, relevance, and spiritual authority.

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Dr. Johnson currently serves as the Senior Pastor of Gethsemane Baptist Church in Suffolk, Virginia, where he is known as a passionate, transformative, and Spirit-led shepherd. Rooted firmly in the rich tradition of the Black Baptist Church, Pastor Johnson’s preaching is marked by high energy, biblical depth, and a heart for God’s people. He communicates the Gospel with both conviction and compassion, challenging believers to grow in faith while reminding them of God’s unfailing grace.

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Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Johnson is a devoted father of six—five daughters and one son—and a proud grandfather affectionately known as “Papa” to four grandchildren. He treasures time with his family and enjoys riding his motorcycle across state lines with a unique mission: uncovering and honoring forgotten Black history. Through this passion, he seeks to preserve ancestral stories, celebrate legacy, and inspire others to connect with the roots that helped build this nation.

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Pastor Johnson’s vision is clear and compelling: to raise up a generation of believers who worship boldly, serve faithfully, and walk victoriously. Through the anointing and guidance of the Holy Spirit, he continues to remind the church and the world that there is still power in the name of Jesus.

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His guiding scripture remains:
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45