Some
of the smallest cities in America have birthed people who have been destined
for greatness. In the small city of Martinsville, Virginia, there is a pastor
who validates the Apostle Paul's decree of "I can do all things through Christ
which strengtheneth me." Bishop Michael
Penn, better known as "Pastor Penn" is married to Angela Kidd Penn and is
the father of 3 children; Jonathan, Sean and Candice. He also has two
grandchildren, Havyn and Jaxon.
In the year 2000, Pastor Penn
began this journey of destiny when he was appointed Senior Pastor of Galilee
Missionary Baptist Church which is now known as The Galilean House of Worship
(The GHOW). Pastor Penn has also been divinely appointed to be one of the
spiritual gatekeepers for Martinsville and Henry County, a rural area with a
population of about 15,000 people. When he started pastoring, the church had
about 200 members and the church has grown to over 1500 members. God has placed
in his heart to teach the body of Christ for the last days. He has also been
called to teach and preach to the nations.
In addition to his role as Senior
Pastor of The Galilean House of Worship, Pastor Penn established Michael Penn
Ministries International and The League of Independent Ministers (L.I.M.) in
2006. L.I.M. was birthed based on Hebrews 6:12, "That ye be not slothful, but
followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises." L.I.M.
is a mentorship that provides access to resources and positive guidance,
direction, support and motivation for pastors, and helps ministers and churches
get to the next level. Since its conception, apostles, bishops, elders, and
ministers have been joining from all across the United States and has grown to
well over 100 members. L.I.M. is an awesome fellowship that allows God's
leaders from all denominations to network, share, learn and grow together
without having to leave their own churches or beliefs.
Pastor Penn has established The
Galilean House of Worship (The GHOW) as a word based, non-denominational
church. A theme verse for the church is Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine
before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is
in heaven." Pastor Penn speaks his heart in saying "We want to be a place to
give people hope." He describes The GHOW as a WASH house, W-Worship, A-Army,
S-School, and H-Hospital. He has a strong desire for the spiritual growth of
people and excellence in ministry. In 2009, Pastor Penn and The Galilean church
family marched into a new 43-acre site which includes a 60,000 square feet
state of the art church facility which is Phase I of the vision. Phase II began
to take shape in 2012 and uses existing land in the rear of the church to
construct a park, walking trail and amphitheater. Phase III will include a
plaza with a fellowship hall, gym, bookstore and restaurant. Phase IV will
utilize an additional 23-acre site for leadership training and for a
retreat/half way house which will provide bunk housing for those in need of
short-term habitation.
Pastor Penn speaks his heart in
stating, "My desire is to see all of
God's people, especially pastors and ministers, mature in excellence in
ministry and life and to share with God's people the principles, information,
and revelation from God."- Dr. Michael Penn Bishop Michael Penn