Straightway MBC of Mojave Leadership
Straightway MBC of Mojave is blessed to have a leadership team who are truly dedicated to Christ and accomplishing His will. Following are brief bio's of our leadership team and their qualifications for ministry.
Charles R. Johnson II
Senior Pastor
Pastor Charles R. Johnson II
Senior Pastor, Straightway MBC of Mojave
A Life of Faith and Leadership
Pastor Charles R. Johnson II was born on October 16, 1968, in Los Angeles, California, to proud parents, Charles and Linda Johnson. After the passing of his biological father at a young age, his mother remarried, and his stepfather, Pervis Jackson, lovingly raised him as his own. To this day, Pastor Johnson honors him as his dad. He grew up in a close-knit family alongside his two brothers and one sister in Los Angeles.
A Call to Ministry
At a young age, Pastor Johnson accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His grandfather, Pastor B. B. Jackson, the organizer of Straightway Missionary Baptist Church, prophesied that Charles would one day be a preacher. Though he did not initially pursue ministry, this prophecy came to pass when, at the age of 38, he answered God’s call to preach.
Family and Dedication to the Church
In July 2001, Charles married Shahidah Carter, and together they lovingly raised their four children: Cinnamon, Charles III, Elisha, and Denise. Recognizing the importance of building a strong spiritual foundation, the family joined Laurel Street Missionary Baptist Church in Watts, California, under Bishop Franklin Harris, Sr. In 2003, he rededicated his life to God, and his entire family was baptized.
During his time at Laurel Street MBC, Pastor Johnson faithfully served as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and Youth Advisor. However, in October 2006, after much prayer and guidance from the Holy Spirit, he finally accepted his call to ministry. That same year, he preached his first sermon at Straightway Missionary Baptist Church in Mojave, California, during a 3:30 PM evening service.
Education and Ministry Service
Pastor Johnson pursued theological education to further equip himself for ministry:
đź“– Los Angeles Bible Training School (2007-2010)
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Education (Bible Believers Christian College & Seminary, 2014)
🏅 "Passing the Mantle" Program Graduate (USC Center for Religious & Civic Culture)
He also dedicated time to mentoring young men through Manformation, a non-profit organization teaching inner-city males (ages 12-18) confidence, social skills, and personal development based on biblical principles.
Senior Pastor of Straightway MBC of Mojave
Pastor Johnson faithfully traveled over 200 miles round trip from 2006 to 2014 to serve at Straightway Missionary Baptist Church. His dedication was recognized, and in January 2008, he was ordained as a minister of The Gospel.
Following the passing of Rev. B. B. Jackson, Sr., Pastor Johnson was installed as the Senior Pastor of Straightway MBC of Mojave on October 16, 2010—his 42nd birthday. Since then, he has continued to lead, teach, and serve with unwavering commitment, carrying on the legacy of faith and dedication to God’s word. He is the 2nd Pastor, while the church was founded in 1948.
A Pastor with a Purpose
With a heart for ministry, mentorship, and community outreach, Pastor Johnson remains devoted to preaching the Gospel, developing disciples, and uplifting the people of God. His journey is a testament to faith, perseverance, and God’s divine calling.
By God’s grace and the pastor’s leadership, Straightway MBC of Mojave continues to thrive, growing in faith and serving in love. The church is standing on the promises of God and is committed to doing His work, trusting in God, and God alone.
Signature Saying: “There’s Only One Way to Heaven, The Straightway!”
Favorite Scripture: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21