Today we’d like to introduce you to Rev. Dr. Kevin Murriel.
Rev. Dr. Kevin, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was called by God into pastoral ministry at age 18. After graduating from Jackson State University, I moved to Atlanta, GA to attend Candler School of Theology at Emory University. After receiving my master’s degree, I completed my doctoral degree at Duke University in 2014 – graduating as the youngest person in my cohort. I have always loved helping people and since I could remember, I enjoyed oration and found that I was an effective communicator. So, God knew what profession would be right for me – a preacher. I currently serve as senior pastor of Cascade United Methodist Church and I believe pastoring and being able to serve others is a gift that I love more and more each day.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’m reminded of what Hip Hop artist Drake said: “Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination.” And my journey has certainly taught me a lot about myself, others, and how to stay focused on my calling and purpose. Of course, each road contains curves, hills, dips, and straightaways; and my life has been nearly identical. Early on I didn’t understand why God would want to entrust a young man from humble beginnings with such immense responsibility. And God revealed to me, “why not?” Many obstacles have come as a result often being the youngest or first person of color to break certain barriers. But through it all, I have learned one major lesson that I share with others. That is, when God opens a door, don’t question it, just walk through it and be thankful.
Please tell us about Cascade United Methodist Church.
Cascade United Methodist Church is a prominent, historic, large African American congregation located in Southwest Atlanta, GA. We have been in existence over 92 years and have produced some of the strongest educational, civic, and religious leaders in Atlanta and perhaps the United States. As the senior pastor, my primary responsibilities include being the chief visionary for the church and also, preaching, teaching, and keeping us engaged in the community and beyond.
My congregants would tell you that I have a passion for social justice and believe that the church should not be passive but rather active and vocal when it comes to issues that affect citizens socially and/or politically.
We are active and engaged in the legislative process and work closely with elected officials to ensure policies are passed that help remove the systemic burden of injustice from minorities and others on the margins of society. I believe this very intentional work is what separates our ministry from many others.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
As many of my ancestors used to say, “I wouldn’t take nothing for my journey!” I have learned to be thankful in all things and to always strive to be excellent. I am thankful for my wife, daughter, family, and every friend that God has ordained for my life. Their support and encouragement mean the world to me. I also have the privilege of serving a phenomenal church with very supportive members. I am blessed beyond measure, humbled, and grateful for the life I’ve been given. And therefore, I believe it is essential to use my life to be a blessing to others – that is what I believe is the measure of one’s true greatness.
Contact Info:
- Address: Worship Opportunities:
Sundays @8am and 11am
Sunday Youth and Children’s church (11am)
Wednesday Night Worship @7pm
The Gathering Young Adult Worship (1st Tuesdays @7pm)
3144 Cascade Rd. SW
Atlanta, GA 30311 - Website: Www.cascadeumc.org
- Phone: 404-691-5770
- Email: info@cascadeumc.org
- Instagram: @cascadeumc
- Facebook: Cascade United Methodist Church
- Twitter: @cascadeumc
- Other: YouTube: Cascade UMC
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