Berea.eduarrow_forward
Centersarrow_forward
Staffarrow_forward
Jonathan R. Whitfield
Jonathan R. Whitfield
Chapel & Ecumenical College Chaplain
Jonathan R. Whitfield
Office Location
Draper Hall112
Bio

Reverend Jonathan R. Whitfield, a multifaceted leader in ministry, hailing from the vibrant community of Bennettsville, South Carolina. As a preacher, speaker, and dedicated chaplain, Reverend Whitfield's journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to service and advocacy for those in need.

Reverend Whitfield embarked on his educational path at South Carolina State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Digital Media/Studio Arts in 2010. His academic journey laid the foundation for his future endeavors, leading him to serve as the esteemed school chaplain for SC State University, where he nurtured spiritual growth and support within the student body.

Driven by a deepening passion for theology and pastoral care, Reverend Whitfield pursued advanced studies in 2011 at Charles H. Mason Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2015, he graduated with distinction, attaining a Master of Divinity in Theology and Pastoral Care & Counseling, equipping him with the knowledge and compassion to serve diverse communities effectively.

Beyond his academic achievements, Reverend Whitfield has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to humanitarian efforts. In 2016, he co-founded a missions society, spearheading impactful initiatives to uplift communities both locally and abroad. Notably, he co-led a transformative mission's trip to Haiti, embodying his commitment to hands-on service and global outreach.

Reverend Whitfield's dedication to advocacy extends beyond the pulpit. He served as a former chaplain for HUGS Homeless Ministries in Atlanta, embodying his belief in the importance of addressing social inequalities and providing support to marginalized populations.

In 2017, Reverend Whitfield expanded his sphere of influence, running for Atlanta City Council with a compelling motto: "Invest In The People." His visionary platform challenged the status quo, pushing a 20-year incumbent to a run-off, a testament to his unwavering commitment to civic engagement and community empowerment.

Continuing his spiritual journey, Reverend Whitfield was licensed as a minister at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in 2017, followed by his ordination as an Elder in the Church of God In Christ (COGIC) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 2019. His diverse experiences have shaped him into a compassionate and inclusive spiritual leader, poised to inspire positive change wherever he goes.

In 2023, Reverend Whitfield further enriched his ministry by completing a year-long Clinical Pastoral Education program (CPE) at Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital in Greenville, South Carolina. His dedication to professional development and compassionate care sets him apart as a leader in his field, as he prepares to pursue BCC certification from the Board of Certified Chaplains.

Today, Reverend Whitfield serves as the Chapel and Ecumenical Chaplain at Berea College, where he is dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and holistic development among young adults. Passionate about this role, Reverend Whitfield views it as both a duty and a privilege to help shape the next generation of emerging adults. He believes in the transformative power of faith and education during this pivotal stage of life and is committed to walking alongside students as they discover their purpose and potential.

Degrees
  • Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media and Studio Arts South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC, 2010
  • Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling The Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, GA, 2015
  • Four Units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital, Greenville, SC, 2023