In Loving Memory
Pastor Charles Rodney Lewis
May 14, 1960 – February 25, 2022
A preacher, soldier, missionary, and founder, Pastor Charles Rodney Lewis gave his life in faithful service to God, family, and community. His legacy endures in the ministry he built and the lives he touched around the world.
Early Life and Family Background
Charles Rodney Lewis was born to Edwinna Marie (Lewis) Hill and William Anthony Lewis at 1:37 AM on May 14, 1960, at Mary Thompson Hospital in Chicago, IL. A native of the Lawndale Community on Chicago’s west side, his roots were planted in family, faith, and a tradition of service that would shape every chapter of his life.
Spiritual Foundation and Ministry Journey
Charles Rodney Lewis came from a lineage of preachers and missionaries. He accepted Christ at an early age through the ministry of his Pastor, the late Bishop Moore of Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Church, known as “the Mother Church” in Indianapolis, IN. Later, he recommitted his life to the LORD and served faithfully for many years at Living Gospel Church of God in Christ in Elgin, IL, under Superintendent Walter Blalark.
His roles included youth president, marriage ministry chair, pastor’s adjutant and driver, and deacon. In 2002, he was ordained an Elder in Illinois First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ at the Arie Crown Theatre by Bishop Ocie Booker. He started a ministry at home called New Wine Church of God in Christ but paused due to family health challenges.
He continued to serve as an Elder at The Greater Love Church of God in Christ under Superintendent Rex Alexander Peel, who encouraged him to pursue further biblical studies.
Roles of Service
- Youth President
- Marriage Ministry Chair
- Pastor’s Adjutant and Driver
- Deacon
- Elder, Illinois First Jurisdiction COGIC (ordained 2002)
- Founder, New Wine Church of God in Christ
Military Service
After high school, Charles entered the United States Army for six years. His experiences included Army Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and Fort Benning, Georgia, which he often referred to as the toughest location. He was stationed at Fort Wainwright Army Base in Fairbanks, Alaska, and his last posting was at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas.
He received several honors:
- Army Service Ribbon
- Overseas Service Ribbon
- Good Conduct Medal
- Expert Hand Grenade Award
- Sharpshooter-Rifle Award
Charles was proud to be a soldier and a Veteran. His family carried a tradition of military service; his younger brothers Todd, James, William “Billy,” and nephew Merrick also served.
Education and Professional Development
Charles was raised in the Lawndale Community and attended Chicago Public Schools, graduating from Ryerson Elementary and Neal F. Simeon High School in 1978.
In August 1998, he enrolled in the Local #265 Sheet Metal Apprenticeship program and became a journeyman. He earned his Associate Degree from Elgin Community College and pursued fast-track programs at Calvary School of Ministry of Grace Theological Seminary College of Loris, South Carolina, completing his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor of Divinity degrees, finishing the latter in 2015.
He also attended the Pastor’s Class in First Jurisdiction of Illinois and received a Certification of Completion in March 2020.
Career and Vocational Work
Charles was a “jack of all trades,” committed to supporting his family. He worked as a plane fueler for United Airlines and retired from the Methodist Church Association. As an independent contractor, he partnered with Patrick Cirone of Your Handyman Inc., installing air conditioning and heating units in various construction projects. His work ethic and versatility reflected the same dedication he brought to every area of his life.
Leadership and Global Missions
In 2010, Elder Charles Rodney Lewis was appointed Missions President for Illinois First Jurisdiction by Bishop Ocie Booker. In January 2016, Bishop Vincent Matthews appointed him as Assistant Regional Director, serving Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan.
He was known as a prayer warrior, apostolic and prophetic vessel, and a student of the Word, committed to prayer and biblical principles.
As part of Youth on a Mission (YOAM) through the Church of God in Christ’s World Missions Department, Elder Lewis preached across multiple nations. His final YOAM trip was to Lomé, Togo and Ghana. Leading the Evangelist team, he and his group successfully reached many people both abroad and in the United States.
Countries Where He Preached
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Jamaica
- Panama
- Colombia
- Ghana
- Lomé, Togo
Founding the Ministry and Personal Life
Pastor Charles Rodney Lewis and his wife began Transformed by the WORD Church of GOD in CHRIST on November 2, 2019. When the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, services moved online and the church continued to grow, becoming known for its dedication to prayer and a strong sense of mission. Pastor Lewis encouraged men to be responsible and supported women and families in the congregation.
He cherished his marriage to Mrs. Louisa Esther Lewis, and together they enjoyed travel, scripture study, music, and family time.
Pastor Lewis was devoted to serving his faith community. He passed away peacefully on February 25, 2022, at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Illinois. The ministry he planted continues to carry his heart for prayer, the Word, and the people he loved.
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The Ministry Pastor Lewis Founded Lives On
Discover the vision, values, and people who carry forward the work that Pastor Charles Rodney Lewis began with faith and dedication.