Dr. Juanita A. W. Harrison
Senior Pastor

Born and raised on the beautiful Eastern Shore of Virginia, Dr. Harrison learned early to recognize and revere the handiwork of God. The shimmering waters of the bay, the whispering marsh grasses, and the majesty of creation constantly turned her heart toward the Creator. These early experiences birthed in her a deep appreciation not only for the beauty of nature, but also for the wondrous diversity of God’s people- each uniquely made yet equally loved by the same gracious God.
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The youngest of four daughters, she carried from childhood a tender compassion for others and a growing thirst for the Word of God. That thirst led her from the Eastern Shore to Richmond, Virginia, where she attended Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)- a divine appointment, as it was there that God ordained her husband Craig Harrison to find her. Together they have been blessed with three remarkable daughters, Jasmine, Joclyn (Michael), and Camille, a beloved bonus son, Zechariah, and the joy of two granddaughters, Mahalia and Raya, who continue to bring laughter and light to their family.
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Before entering full-time ministry, Dr. Harrison devoted more than twenty years to vocational rehabilitation through Supported Employment of Virginia, helping individuals discover purpose, dignity, and independence- values that now infuse her pastoral work. Responding to God’s call, she pursued theological training at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology of Virginia Union University, earning a Master of Divinity with an emphasis in Christian Education. She also holds an Honorary Doctorate in Religious Studies from Tabernacle Divinity School and, in 2024, achieved a Doctor of Ministry degree, further equipping her to shepherd God’s people.
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Before being called to the pastorate, she was ordained and faithfully served at Tabernacle Baptist Church as Minister of Worship and Minister of Christian Education. In God’s perfect timing, she was appointed Senior Pastor of Bethesda Baptist Church in South Chesterfield, where she has served faithfully for over nineteen years. Under her leadership, Bethesda has flourished as a Christ-centered community through the organization of ministries such as REACH (Reaching Everybody by Adopting Christ’s Heart), the Whole Bread Ministry (Health and Wellness), Locking Arms in Hope, the Congregational Care Ministry, Café Nuggets and the Training and Enrichment Institute. Together, Pastor and people have witnessed not only the renovation of the physical sanctuary but also the spiritual renovation of hearts and minds- transforming lives through teaching, preaching, prayer, and authentic worship. Together, as Kingdom Walkers, they live grace.
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Dr. Harrison’s ministry is anchored in her favorite passage, Proverbs 3:3-4 (NIV): “Let love and faithfulness never leave you: bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” This scripture encapsulates her ministry- that love, and faithfulness are not occasional acts, but daily commitments that reflect Christ’s heart. In every sermon, outreach, and act of service, she seeks to embody these virtues encouraging others to live authentically before God and humbly among His people.
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Through every season, Dr. Harrison continues to stand in awe of God’s unfolding masterpiece- both in creation and in the lives, He allows her to touch. With steadfast faith, she declares: “He Who began a good work in us is not through yet.”

