About 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rev. Dwayne A. Gary is the Pastor of Woodlawn African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church, located on the South side of Chicago, Illinois. He was assigned to Woodlawn in October 2021 under Bishop John F. White, Sr.

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Prior to pastoring Woodlawn, Rev. Gary's journey was marked by diverse experiences. As a native of Detroit, Michigan, and was ordained as an Itinerant Deacon (Minister) in the A.M.E. Church in August of 1995. He then became the Youth Pastor at his home church, Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Detroit, MI. Two years later, Rev. Gary was ordained an Itinerant Elder and assigned Pastor of New St. James A.M.E. Church in Detroit, Michigan. He subsequently pastored Pleasant Valley A.M.E. Church in Belleville, Michigan, Saunders Memorial A.M.E. Church in Detroit, Michigan, and St. Paul A.M.E. Church in Glencoe, Illinois.

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Rev. Gary’s unique ability to blend traditional and contemporary worship styles without sacrificing one for the other has resulted in a church built around a uniquely diverse group of people of various ages and cultures. As a powerful messenger of God, he has established himself as an outstanding preacher and teacher.

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As a resolute community advocate, Rev. Gary spearheaded a Rally for Justice, leading a 400-car caravan through the Village of Glencoe, honking and cheering “Black Lives Matter.” His impassioned message of awareness and actionable steps the community can take to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion resonated deeply. He also led the Glencoe community in several book discussions addressing historical and current policies and practices concerning racism. His efforts were recognized on National Public Radio (NPR), and WBEZ/NPR in a story titled “Chicago Church Leads the Way as it Grapples with Race.” This story gained national attention and was featured in the A.M.E. Christian Recorder.

In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, he served as the Disciplinary Officer and Jail Program Specialist for Wayne County Jails. His prior work experience includes serving as Senior Development Officer for United Way for Southeastern Michigan and Director of Fundraising for Michigan Technical Academy School of Redford, Michigan.

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Rev. Gary attended Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, and majored in Sociology. He received certification in Divinity Studies from Trinity Seminary in Newburgh, Indiana, and earned his Master of Divinity (MDiv) from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois. He was also awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree in Theology from the Tennessee School of Religion, Ypsilanti, Michigan. Rev. Gary's leadership extends beyond his pastoral duties. He has been elected to serve on the A.M.E. General Board of the Connectional Church (2024-2028) and on the Social Action, Ministry and Recruitment, and Global Witness and Development Commissions of the A.M.E. Church. He is the Past President of the A.M.E. Ministerial Alliance of Chicago and Vicinity, a former president of the Michigan Conference of A.M.E. Clergy Alliance, a member of the Police District 003 Clergy Team, and the Student Council Executive Team of McCormick Theological Seminary. He also serves on the Chicago Annual Conference Legislative Task Force, and the Chicago Conference Board of Examiners; the Chairperson of the Abandoned Property of Chicago Conference, a member of the Department of Corrections Advisory Board for Illinois, as Chaplain of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, a member of the NAACP, and as a member of Golden Rule Lodge #36 FAAM. These roles reflect his unwavering commitment to serving and guiding his community. Rev. Gary has demonstrated leadership and dedication to his calling throughout his life and ministry. Recognized as a man from humble beginnings, he is a teacher, businessperson, community activist, pastor, husband and father. His contributions are a source of pride for his community.Rev. Gary is married to Kimberly, and together, they have four adult children and three grandchildren.