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About Me

Hi, I'm Rev. Joel L. Tolbert

I'm the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown in Chestertown, MD. I've been their Lead Pastor since January 26, 2020.

I was born in Atlanta. My father died when I was six by suicide. Mom forever gave up on church and took me out with her. I came back to God, scripture, and church in college, thanks to the love of my life, Jill.

I graduated from Mercer University Engineering School and served twelve years with three corporations in Engineering, Project Management, Marketing, and Sales.

In 2002, Jill and I and our three young sons moved to Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA). I completed a Master of Divinity degree in 2005. Jill finished hers in 2007.

I served Rehoboth Presbyterian Church in Decatur, GA from 2005-2012, Oconee Presbyterian Church in Watkinsville, GA from 2012-2020, and now the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown in Chestertown, MD.

I love Jesus. I am passionate about the real good news, not the fluff and stuff so many mislabel as gospel. I'm going to laugh and cry and tell you the truth. I'm going to rattle you a bit, and I will show up for you. I pray and work for the kingdom to come on earth, sooner better than later.

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