Rev. Elvin J. Dowling
2024 - Present
Reverend Elvin J. Dowling is a passionate leader dedicated to uplifting his community and empowering future generations.
· Licensed to preach since the age of 16, Reverend Dowling has a strong foundation in faith and service.
· A native of West Palm Beach, Florida, he understands the challenges facing many communities and has dedicated his life to making a positive impact.
· Successfully secured two $1 million grants from President Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper Initiative” to mentor 2,200 at-risk youth.
· Former Chairman of the Board for the Palm Beach Harvest Food Bank, providing over 50 million pounds of food to help fight food security for families in South Florida.
· Distinguished Alumni Award (Education Foundation of Palm Beach County)
·Ebony Magazine’s “Thirty Leaders of the Future” Award
Reverend Dowling is a proud husband to Yadira and father to their three children, Josiah, Joshua, and Eden.
Reverend Dowling's unwavering commitment to his faith, community, and youth development makes him a true leader and role model.
· Author of the acclaimed book, “License to Live,” inspiring individuals to overcome their past and embrace change.
· Second book, "Still Invisible? Examining America's Black Male Crisis," became an Amazon Bestseller and was nominated for prestigious awards, including the coveted Pulitzer Prize.
Rev. Dr. Henry Curtis McDowell (1958 – 1967)
· Served as pastor alongside his wife Ruth from 1959, leading the congregation to establish itself as the Church of the Open Door.
· Dedicated leader who oversaw significant growth in membership and facilities.
· Championed youth development and left a lasting impact on the Miami community.
· Previously served as a missionary in Angola.
Rev. Harold David Long (1967 – 1994)
· Succeeded Rev. Dr. Henry Curtis McDowell as pastor in 1967.
· Led the Church of the Open Door with compassion and innovation for 26 years.
· Actively involved in both church and community initiatives throughout his career.
· Honored for his service with awards like "Man of the Year" by the Frontiersmen of America and the Kings Clubs of Greater Miami.
Rev. Dr. James E. Fouther, Jr. (1994 – 2001)
· Led the Church of the Open Door as Senior Pastor from 1994 to 2001, overseeing a period of growth and development.·
Earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Eden Theological Seminary while serving the Church of the Open Door, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development.
· A distinguished academic, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and a Master of Divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary.
Rev. Dr. R. Joaquin Willis (2002 – 2017)
· Led the Church of the Open Door as Senior Pastor from 1994 to 2001, overseeing a period of growth and development.·
Earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Eden Theological Seminary while serving the Church of the Open Door, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development.
· A distinguished academic, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and a Master of Divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary.
Rev. Adrian Mclean (2018 – 2021)
· Rev. Adrian McLean became Interim Minister of Church of the Open Door (United Church of Christ) in January 2018.
· Previously served at St Martin United Church of Christ (St. Louis) for 16 years.
· 33-year veteran ordained by the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.
· Holds degrees from Mico University College, United Theological College, University of the West Indies, and more.
