The church in the heart of the city with the people of the city in its heart.
THE PASTOR
Rev. Dr. Johnnie D. Brooker, Jr., originally from Newark, NJ, has devoted his life to faith, education, community service, and leadership. He embarked on his educational journey at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Criminology. His passion for ministry led him to Drew University Theological School in Madison, NJ, where he obtained both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry degree.
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Although he initially pursued a path towards medical school, Rev. Dr. Brooker felt a divine calling that redirected his journey. He became a licensed preacher under the mentorship of Rev. Bennett Johnson of the Greater Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, in 2002. His ordination followed in 2007 by the New Hope Missionary Baptist Association. From 2007 to 2023, he served faithfully as the Senior Pastor of the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Dover, NJ. On April 2, 2023 Rev. Brooker was selected to serve as the senior pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church of Newark.
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In addition to his pastoral duties, Rev. Dr. Brooker serves as an educator at Marion P. Thomas Charter High School and as an Admissions Recruiter for Drew University Theological School. Rev. Dr. Brooker is actively involved in community service and is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. He is recognized for his dedication to leadership development and fostering upcoming preachers. Additionally, he has held various roles within the North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association and received the prestigious Joshua Award from the National Baptist Convention USA Inc.
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Rev. Brooker is married to Ayanna Mishoe-Brooker, an attorney and ordained preacher, who serves as an Associate Minister of the Abyssinian Baptist Church. Together, they have two children, Johnnie Elisha, III, and Annaya Kai.
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His life and ministry are deeply rooted in faith, guided by Ephesians 3:20: "Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. Amen."