Doctor Gregory Bernard Payton is held as one of the premiere pastors and voices in ministry today. He is an active participant with the California Missionary Baptist State Convention and the California State Baptist Convention Inc. He has received numerous invitations to preach and teach throughout the nation. He is known throughout the nation for delivering powerful messages of perseverance, reconciliation and hope on a level where even a child can comprehend. Pastor truly has a heart for young people. In spite of all his accolades Pastor continues to be humble and always ready to help those in need. Pastor Dr. Gregory Bernard Payton is Christ centered passionate man that loves his family and God’s people.
Pastor Payton is a native of Oakland, California; growing up in the impoverished West Oakland community and the eldest of nine children of Mr. Alfred & Mrs. Annie Payton he has overcome many obstacles to reach his goals. The Payton’s provided a strong work ethic by example and a stable, positive and loving foundation for their children giving them the gift of Christ. He was raised in the historic St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late founder, Dr. C. J. Anderson. He felt the tug of God on his heart at an early age. He received his early education in Oakland and Concord public schools. He attended San Francisco State University, Golden State School of Theology and received his Doctorate degree from Saint Thomas University. In his free time which is rare, he enjoys listening to old sermons from some of the greats out of his vas collection. He is also an avid sports fan and enjoys supporting his NBA All Star baby brother Gary Payton when time permits.
In June 2002, while preaching a revival in Seattle, WA God orchestrated a meeting with a gentleman who was employed by M. I. C. F. who was inspired by Pastor Payton and requested his presence at the McNeal Island Correctional Facility to impact the lives of men, He speaks with authority and vigor with a message of hope and inspiration letting them know that God is in control no matter what man says. This ministry has now grown from 3 to over 300 men. He provides the Word and instructs God's people not only in our community but beyond.
On October 1, 2004, we were elated to present Reverend Gregory B. Payton as the second Pastor of the St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Oakland, California. Pastor Payton is a man chosen by God with a vision to change generations. With the awesome move of the Holy Spirit, there has been a change in the church and the lives of others. God has given Pastor Payton a vision to embrace those who are lost. Along with vision, Pastor Payton brings energy, power, love and compassion through the Word of God. God has transitioned St. John to higher heights. There has been an outpouring of God's Holy Spirit that has been touching the lives of every member and non member. Pastor Payton is a visionary who has allowed the Spirit of God to take control and lead him as he feeds and instruct God's people. Under the leadership of Pastor Payton, St. John Missionary Baptist Church implemented 12 new ministries and enhanced existing ministries: New Members, Youth Choir, Tuesday Bible Study, Male Chorus, Feeding Program, Clothing, Prayer Warriors, Community Outreach, Pastor’s Honor Roll, Evangelism Team, Birthday Club and Sons of Zion male chorus and most recently, the Help a Brother Ministry; 3 annual events: The Word Conference, Leadership Conference and Spring Revival.
With his energetic preaching, Pastor Payton has inspired, informed, instructed, enthused, convicted and changed the hearts of many people to give their lives to Jesus Christ. He has been invited to preach at City, State and National Conventions. He has preached at and is frequently requested for revivals locally and throughout this United States. He is active with the California Missionary Baptist State Convention and the Baptist Ministers’ Union of Oakland and Vicinity. Recently Pastor Payton was honored and humbled to receive the award of “Most Influential Pastor” from The Bay Area Gospel Community.
Through prayer and supplication people have accepted Christ and received deliverance from drugs and alcohol abuse. Over 1,100 souls have been added unto the church and body of Christ, six men have accepted their call to the ministry and much more to come. With his energetic preaching, Pastor Payton has inspired, informed, instructed, enthused, convicted and changed the hearts of many. The church has sent Youths as delegates to represent at national and state sessions and much more.
Being a motivator, advisor, administrator, businessman, lecturer, revivalist, coach, mentor, teacher, father, grandfather, visionary, pastor and so much more he has truly made a lasting impression and continues to do so on his parishioners, family, community and future generations to come.
Dr. Gregory Bernard Payton is a God fearing man, chosen by God, who is Christ centered and loves God's people, his family, and church family.
Offices and Positions
Financial Secretary – California Missionary Baptist State Convention
