OUR pastor

Reverend Ricky D. Warren serves as Pastor of Greater Ward African Methodist Episcopal Church, affectionately known as The ForWARD Church, in Houston, Texas. A gifted preacher, teacher, musician, and servant-leader, Pastor Warren is passionate about one central mission: winning souls for the Kingdom of God and helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

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Pastor Warren is a graduate of Texas Southern University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, and Lamar University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Education Administration. He is also a Master of Divinity student at Houston Graduate School of Theology, continuing his theological education and preparation for ministry. Professionally, he serves with the Houston Independent School District as a teacher, with certification in Special Education. His background in education reflects his passion for teaching, developing, encouraging, and empowering others.

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Pastor Warren’s spiritual foundation was formed under the umbrella of the Church of God in Christ, where he received salvation and cultivated a deep love for praise and worship. Under the influence and spiritual guidance of his paternal grandfather, Rev. J.B. Felder, he united with the African Methodist Episcopal Church while continuing to cherish the faith experiences that shaped his early walk with Christ.

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Music has played a significant role throughout Pastor Warren’s ministry. He served as Minister of Music at East Orange A.M.E. Church for 15 years. During that time, in 2000, he heard the call of God to preach the Gospel. By faith, he answered the call and began a journey of preparation that led to his training, licensing, and ordination for ministry. He later served as an Assistant Pastor, faithfully carrying both pastoral and music ministry responsibilities.

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In November 2008, after a season of fasting and prayer, Pastor Warren accepted his first pastoral charge at Union Center A.M.E. Church, affectionately referred to as UCAME, in Conroe, TX. During his pastorate there, he embraced the vision “Reaching the Lost…Regenerating the Righteous!” His ministry emphasized encouragement and empowerment, challenging Christians to live intentionally according to the Word of God and to walk boldly in the promises of God.

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In November 2017, Pastor Warren was appointed to Greater Ward A.M.E. Church in Houston, Texas. Under his leadership, the congregation continues to honor its rich history while embracing its identity as The ForWARD Church and its vision: Moving Forward. Reaching Higher. Doing Greater.

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Pastor Warren believes his ministry is one of encouragement and empowerment—helping people discover their God-given purpose, possess the promises of God, and live out their faith with intention. He walks in humility, yet preaches with passion, conviction, and a fervent desire to see lives transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.

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Above all, Pastor Warren loves God with all his heart, soul, and mind and gives God glory for every blessing, opportunity, and victory along the journey. He remains committed to preaching the Gospel, serving God's people, and leading the church toward the greater works God has called it to accomplish.

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Rev. Ricky D. Warren continues to anticipate doing even greater works for the Kingdom of God.

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