Pastor Charles R. Johnson II was born in Los Angeles, California on October 16, 1968. Raised by his mother and stepfather, he grew up in a close-knit family with his siblings. At a young age, his grandfather, Pastor B. B. Jackson, prophesied his future in ministry, though he didn’t accept his calling until age 38.

"In 2001, Charles married Shahidah Carter, they raised four children. As a family, they joined Laurel Street Missionary Baptist Church in Watts, CA. There, Charles rededicated his life to God in 2003. He served faithfully as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and Youth Advisor before embracing his call to ministry in 2006, delivering his first sermon at Straightway MBC of Mojave."

Pastor Johnson pursued theological education, attending the Los Angeles Bible Training School (2007-2010) and earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Education from Bible Believers Christian College and Seminary in 2014. He was actively involved in mentorship programs and received training from the University of Southern California’s CRCC.

Ordained in 2008, he faithfully traveled long distances to serve at Straightway MBC of Mojave. Following the passing of Pastor B. B. Jackson in 2010, he was installed as Senior Pastor of Straightway Missionary Baptist Church on his 42nd birthday, October 16, 2010. He is the 2nd Pastor, while the church was founded in 1948.

By God’s grace and his 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 the eternal truth.

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

Kenneth D. Trice Sr. was born on March 30, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois, to Floyd and Cleta Trice, he later moved with his family to Tupelo, Mississippi, where he accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at the age of 12. At 17 years old, he received his calling to ministry and served in various capacities, including as an Armor Bearer at Bethlehem Church of Christ Holiness.

He furthered his education at Itawamba Junior College and The Christian Bible Institute.

On February 15, 2005, he was officially licensed as a minister, and in 2008, he was appointed Assistant Pastor at Grace Community Bible Church.

On May 30, 2021, he married Margaret Marie Trice. Together, they have been blessed with 10 children, 19 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Since January 2021, he has been a faithful member of Straightway MBC of Mojave, where he continues to serve as Assistant Pastor. His mission remains steadfast—to preach God’s Word and serve God's people in any shape, form, or fashion God leads him.

Signature Saying: "Sin is a thriller and a killer."

Favorite Scripture: "I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 34:1

Elder Thomas B. Gafford was saved in 1964 at Memorial COGIC in Littlerock, CA. In 1965, he was drafted into the US Armed Forces and was sent to Virginia. There he remained for two years.

 In 1967, he was honorably discharged and was led by God to unite with the St John's COGIC, located in Newport News, VA.  

Elder Thomas B. Gafford later founded and Pastored the Spirit of Life COGIC, located in Farmville VA where he built, by the help of God and the members, a brand new Church Edifice which remains today.  He also became the 2nd Jurisdiction COGIC of Virginia Youth Department President and the 1st USAC Chairman in Virginia.

Elder Gafford graduated from Central Virginia College where he earned a Degree in Business Administration.  In 2002, Elder Gafford returned to Los Angeles, CA, and united with Greater Mount Olive COGIC, where he met and married Sister Vicki Davis Gafford.

In 2013, Elder Thomas Gafford and his beautiful wife, Vicki founded the City of Praise COGIC in Palmdale, CA. In 2019 because of health reasons, Elder Gafford retired from Pastoring and he and his wife Vicki purchased a home in California City, CA.

It was in 2022, when Vicki Gafford was invited to a little church in Mojave, CA. After visiting for several Sundays, she went home and told Elder Gafford, I found a church. Soon after that, they united with Straightway MBC of Mojave.

Gregory J. Alexander Jr. was born on November 6, 1992, in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Gregory's journey is a testament to dedication, service, and the transformative power of faith. Raised in Lancaster, California, within a strong and faith-filled family, his spiritual path was nurtured from an early age. At just ten years old, his family joined the New Paradise Church of God in Christ, laying the foundation for a life deeply rooted in Christian beliefs.

This foundation blossomed into a profound calling, at eighteen, Gregory surrendered his life to Christ and answered the call to ministry. Delivering his first sermon in May 2011 marked not just a milestone but the enthusiastic beginning of his lifelong commitment to spreading the Gospel. His ministry extended beyond the pulpit, manifesting in a dynamic tapestry of service. Gregory dedicated himself to youth ministry, faithfully served as a junior deacon, led the church choir with passion, and uplifted others through his leadership in praise and worship. Additionally, he inspired and nurtured faith through Sunday School teachings, Bible studies, and prayer meetings, touching countless lives along the way.

It was within the harmonious melodies of the church choir that Gregory met the love of his life, Whitney. Their union in August 2019 marked the beginning of a beautiful partnership, one that was further blessed with the arrival of their two precious daughters, Phoebey and Makenzey. Together, their family embodies the love, faith, and devotion that defines Gregory’s life.

His dedication to God and his community continued to flourish. In August 2020, he received the great honor of being ordained as an elder in the Church of God in Christ—a testament to his unwavering commitment to serving God's people. This commitment led him to a new chapter in December 2024 when he and Whitney joined Straightway MBC of Mojave. Together, they now serve in the Young Adult Ministry, inspiring and guiding the next generation in faith and service. Their combined passion and tireless efforts continue to uplift and strengthen the community.

Gregory J. Alexander Jr's life is a powerful reminder of the profound impact that faith and dedication can have on the world. His journey is one of selfless service, deep spiritual devotion, and a boundless love for God and His people. As we honor his achievements, we eagerly anticipate the continued blessings and growth in his life and ministry. May his story inspire us all to walk with faith and serve with love.

Pastor Ralph Parrott, a dynamic leader with over a decade of ministry experience, serves as Senior Pastor of Empowered Church and Moderator of the Central District Association. He holds dual ordinations, leads nine churches, mentors ministers, and is pursuing a doctorate at Biola University. His ministry focuses on holistic transformation, encompassing spiritual, financial, and social empowerment, and includes leadership of a family-owned non-profit. He's dedicated to advancing God's kingdom and serving his community.

Pastor Parrott's life is a testament to the power of faith interwoven with the everyday realities of family life. A quiet dignity and a deep commitment to spiritual guidance and ethical living mark his pastoral work in the community.

He's not merely a spiritual leader; he's actively involved in fostering a stronger, more compassionate community. However, what truly shines through is the profound love and dedication he displays as a father. The time and effort he invests in raising his children alongside his commitment to his congregation exemplifies a life well-lived, showcasing a beautiful blend of spiritual leadership and devoted family life. His contributions extend far beyond the pulpit; they are woven into the fabric of his family and the community he serves so selflessly.

Pastor Parrott is a valued asset to Straightway MBC’s ministerial staff and, more importantly, a powerful man of God. His unwavering faith, compassionate leadership, and dedication to spreading the Gospel make him a guiding light to the congregation and the community. Through his ministry, he continues to inspire, uplift, and transform lives with the love and truth of Christ.