Meet our Pastor
Rev. Dr. Michael L.W. Moore is the 8th Pastor of the Metropolitan Baptist Church. He began his tenure in January 2020, just 3 months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership through the pandemic has helped to keep the church grounded and faith-filled through: Virtual Church Services, Bible Study opportunities, book studies, community giveaways, fellowship activities, as well as health and wellness initiatives. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Dr. Moore is the son of Darlene Moore and Michael Woodbury. He is married to the former Rev. Dr. Christy Simmons, and they are the parents of Michael L. W. Moore II, affectionately called Mike Mike.
After being educated in the Pittsburgh Public School System and graduating from Schenley High School, Dr. Moore attended the historic Virginia Union University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious Studies and Philosophy. Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Moore earned a Master of Divinity Degree and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union. His time at Virginia Union afforded him opportunities to sharpen his leadership skills and develop partnerships within the community. While matriculating at Virginia Union, Dr. Moore served as the 2nd Mr. Virginia Union in the history of the University.
Dr. Moore is the current Campus Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life at Lemoyne-Owen College. He is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, where he was initiated in the Gamma Chapter. He also serves as a member of several other civic and faith-based organizations.
Before Dr. Moore arrived at Metropolitan, he was fortunate to serve in various ministerial capacities. He served as the 6th Pastor of the Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in Richmond, VA. During his tenure, he led the congregation to embrace a mission of Living, Loving, Learning, and Leading. As the youngest Senior Pastor in their history, his leadership contributed to their qualitative and quantitative growth.
“If we learn to love right, we will never have to
question if we are living right.”
-Rev. Dr. Michael L.W. Moore