Reverend Dr. Darrell Wesley is a seasoned pastor, retired Navy chaplain, and scholar with a distinguished career in both ministry and academia. Raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, as the grandson of a Baptist preacher, he accepted his call to ministry under his grandfather’s leadership. Dr. Wesley pastored his first church at 19 and has led several growing congregations. He served as a Navy chaplain for 23 years, retiring at the rank of Captain in 2019.

Academically accomplished, Dr. Wesley holds multiple degrees including a B.A. in English from Abilene Christian University, an M.A. in Philosophy from the University of Tennessee, an M.A. in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College, a Master of Sacred Theology from Yale University, a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Religion from Claremont Graduate University. He has authored several publications, including books and articles on ethics, spirituality, and African American culture. In July 2023, he was appointed senior pastor of Redlands First United Methodist Church, where he now serves as its first African American pastor in the church’s 137-year history.

Dr. Wesley is actively involved in numerous advisory boards and community committees, reflecting his deep commitment to social justice, service, and advocacy for the marginalized. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a distinguished historically Black fraternity with a rich legacy.