Bishop John Drew Sheard Sr. stands as the Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), a prominent African American Pentecostal denomination. COGIC’s extensive reach includes 12,000 churches across over 112 countries, making it a global force in Pentecostalism. His leadership marks a significant chapter in the history of this influential church.
Elected to the General Board in 2012 and re-elected in 2016, Bishop John Drew Sheard Sr.’s ascent within COGIC reflects decades of dedicated service. His re-election in 2021 to the Presidium (General Board) further solidified his position. That same year marked a pivotal moment as he was elected Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle, assuming the highest leadership role within the organization.
Bishop Sheard’s commitment to the Church of God in Christ spans over 30 years. In 1988, he began his pastoral journey with his installation as Pastor of Greater Emmanuel Church. His leadership capabilities were further recognized in 1996 when, as Elder J. Drew Sheard, he was appointed Superintendent of the Emmanuel District by Bishop Herbert J. Williams, Sr., the Prelate of the North Central Michigan Jurisdiction. His influence extended to the international level as he served as President of the International Youth Department from 1997 to 2001. Subsequently, from 2004 to 2012, Bishop John Drew Sheard Sr. served as Chairman of the AIM Convention, another significant body within COGIC. The year 2010 witnessed his consecration as Jurisdictional Bishop, succeeding Bishop Herbert J. Williams, Sr., the founder of the North Central Michigan Jurisdiction, further cementing his leadership legacy.
Prior to his full-time ministry, John Drew Sheard Sr. dedicated himself to education as a public-school teacher. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1982, followed by a Master of Arts in Mathematics from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan in 1998. His contributions extend beyond religious leadership, as evidenced by his induction into the esteemed Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Board of Preachers, recognizing his influence and impact on society.
Bishop J. Drew Sheard Sr. shares his life with Evangelist Karen Clark Sheard, a celebrated gospel artist. Their family includes two children, Kierra Kelly and John Drew Sheard, II, a son-in-love, Jordan Kelly, and two grandchildren. Together, Bishop Sheard and Karen Clark Sheard are also entrepreneurs in the gospel music industry, having founded Karew Records. This faith-based record label supports and promotes various genres within Gospel, Christian, and Inspirational music, showcasing their commitment to both ministry and the arts.
