Our Pastor

Reverend Dawrell Rich, affectionately known as "Pastor D”, is a pastor-scholar, public speaker, and community builder. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Design in Architecture, Master of Infrastructure Planning and Master of Divinity. Currently, he is completing a Ph.D. in the area of religion and society.

As an architectural designer and assistant urban planner he provided redevelopment strategies, coordinated city-wide cleanups, and proposed infill projects to support smart-growth and environmental sustainability. As a pastor, he convened local residents and public officials to develop a community land trust in New London, Connecticut, and organized weekly meal distribution to more than 200 inner-city homeless persons in Elizabeth, New Jersey.Now, he is the founder and director of Joshua’s House, Inc. - a community development corporation that empowers and equips low income communities through education, economic development, and affordable housing. He is also the author of two books, “The Love Challenge: A 21 Day Journey in Love” and “Come to the River: Release the Power Within.”

He is a member of the American Academy of Religion, the Association for the Sociology of Religion, and a Senior Fellow of the Environmental Leadership Program. He is also a United States Green Building Council Scholar. Most recently, he was awarded the 2019 Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Social Justice Award from Drew University. 

Reverend Rich is charismatic, conversational, and relatable. He weaves cutting-edge principles and practicality.

He has earned him a reputation as a catalyst for change, innovative thinker and dynamic communicator. Dawrell lives in New Jersey.  He enjoys traveling, art exhibitions and writing.