Reverend Willie F. Wilson, born in Newport News, Virginia and ordained Nana Kwadwo Boafo I, a Wolof Priest in the Gambia, West African, is very much at home in Anacostia, Southeast, Washington, D.C. (U.S.A) where for the past 31 years he has propagated and nurtured a Christo-centric, Afro-centric, Afro-sensitive, liberation ministry that simply says: “It’s a Family Affair.”

Rev Wilson earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Ohio University and a Masters of Divinity from Howard University, where he also pursued doctoral studies. In the annals o f time he will be duly noted for his many awards and accolades that wall-paper his office from door-to-door including ceremonial documentation of his installation as a sub chief by the Asankare-Breuto in Asankrangwa, West Ghana, recognized by USA Today Newspaper as on of 10 most valuable people in America, A President’s Service Award recipient n 1997, photos of Rev Wilson and former Washington, D.C. (U.S.A.) Mayor Marion Barry launching a victorious political comeback, Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Pastor in ecumenical embrace, the visage of the historic assembly of the Million Man March, and scenes from the largest art festival on the east coast, UNIFEST.

As a Trustee on the Board of the University of the District of Columbia, Rev Wilson champions the cause of sound curriculum. As a mayoral candidate for Washington, D.C. in 2002, he championed the cause of sound judgment and leadership for the city’s residents.

Rev Wilson has authored three books: The African American Wedding Manual, Releasing the Power Within, The Genius of Jesus Revealed, and How African Religion Changed the American Church. He has been cited in numerous other publications. He is sought-after preacher and speaker. He has appeared on television and talk radio shows across the United States.

Rev Wilson has counseled with African kings and queens and has married African kings and queens. Under his leadership Union Temple Baptist Church has expanded its “firsts” to include Alcoholics Anonymous, Rites of Passage Programs, Kwanzaa Celebration, gay/lesbian forum, inter-faith worship with Orthodox Muslims, ordination of women and exile from the Baptist Ministry Conference. Thirty years ago it was unthinkable to have step teams and praise dancers in the church; however, today such ministries are widely accepted as expressions of praise to God.

In his home, Rev Wilson has maintained a viable and loving marriage to Rev Mary Wilson. Together they have raised four children and have opened their home to many others. Now he and Rev Mary Wilson are enjoying the blessed role of grandparents.

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Reverend Mary Lewis Wilson is a native New Yorker, born to a family of preachers. The legacy continues through her two daughters, Minister Anika Wilson Brown and Minister Kalilia Wilson. Along side her husband, Pastor Willie F. Wilson, she shares the pastorate of Union Temple Baptist Church as Co-Pastor.

Rev Mary L. Wilson is an alumnus of Howard University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and psychology. She is currently studying for her Masters of Divinity at Howard University School of Divinity. Her scholarship and compassion combined are the substance of a dynamic ministry that is manifested in her vision and leadership qualities. The most recent teaching endeavor that the Lord has placed on her heart is the Abundant Living Series, which consists of self-esteem workshops, wholeness and healing experiences, and spiritual gifts classes, takes place on Thursday evenings at the church. God is glorified in the works of this Woman of God because of her innate ability to empower and encourage others.

Rev Wilson is known nationally for her work as the founder and original director of the Union Temple Youth Choir. She directed the choir on its debut CD, “God Reigns.” The Youth Choir is unparalleled throughout the country, having performed in concerts and national media with such stalwart recording artists as Vickie Winans, Boyz II Men, Barry Manilow, Michael Jackson, Reba McIntyre, Brooks and Dunn, and gospel diva Yolanda Adams.

Although closely identified with the music ministry, Rev Wilson has distinguished herself as a visionary leader and a tireless advocate for women, young adults, and children. As the Executive Director of the Harambee House for Youth, Rev Wilson created for court adjudicated juveniles ages nine to eighteen an Afro-centric residential facility, which provides providing temporary housing, a structured program of counseling, court services, mentoring, educational support, and most importantly, love.

The many innovations for which Rev Wilson is responsible for at Union Temple include, but are not limited to the Vision Ministry Team which has given birth to 50 new ministries, the church newsletter, the Children’s Development Advisory Council, Women’s Boot Camp” bible study, a publication of inspirational expressions, and the Omni Ministry for Children. Additionally, she initiated the “Bosom Buddies” project, which inspires women to be supportive of each other in the early detection of breast cancer by encouraging self-breast examinations.

Rev Wilson is a sermon for those who would not yet come into the house of the Lord to hear a sermon.

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