Rev.Dr. Michel Faulkner
From the Football field to University and Church Leadership, Michel has over 40 years of leadership experience. And don't worry Philly! He played for the Jets but is a committed Eagles fan (except when they play the Jets).
For nearly four decades, Rev. Michel Faulkner has faithfully dedicated his life to serving God and His people, embodying the call to lead with integrity, compassion, and boldness. A native of Washington, D.C., Rev. Faulkner’s journey began as an all-star athlete, achieving Freshman All-American honors and becoming a four-year starter at Virginia Tech. He graduated in 1980 with a B.A. in Communications and pursued his passion for football in the NFL, including a season with the New York Jets (1980–82).
Answering a higher calling, Rev. Faulkner returned to Virginia Tech to earn his M.A. in Education. In 1985, he joined Liberty University as Assistant Dean of Students, later advancing to Vice President for Urban Ministry in 1987. His vision for urban ministry led him to New York City, where he served as Director of The Lamb’s Church Soup Kitchen in Times Square.
Ordained in 1991 at Calvary Baptist Church in Manhattan, Rev. Faulkner tirelessly worked as Pastor for Youth and Community Outreach and co-chaired the NYC Board of Education’s HIV/AIDS Task Force (1991–1994). In 1993, he became Senior Pastor of Central Baptist Church, growing the congregation from 50 to nearly 500 members. His influence extended into public service, as he held leadership roles on the NYC Mayor's Task Force on Police Community Relations and as a Commissioner for the City Charter Revision.
Rev. Faulkner founded the Institute for Leadership in 2005, focusing on developing leaders and solving complex urban challenges. A year later, he planted New Horizon Church in Harlem, bringing hope and transformation to disadvantaged communities in the name of Christ.
In 2010, he ran for Congress in Harlem, demonstrating his commitment to advocacy and justice. After losing his wife of 31 years, Virginia Faulkner, to lupus in 2014, he found new joy in his marriage to Dr. Sarai Padilla in 2015. Together, they continue to minister to others, blending their passions for missions and community healing.
Relocating to Philadelphia in 2018, Rev. Faulkner became Executive Vice President of CE National, guiding urban ministry initiatives. He now serves as Executive Director and CEO of the historic Philadelphia Council of Clergy and is a member of the NFL Alumni Association. Rev. Faulkner also pastored Outreach Ministries at Victory Church in Audubon from 2020 to 2024.
An accompilshed marathon runner completing 4, author of two books, and sought-after commentator on most major networks, Rev. Faulkner recently completed his Doctorate in Ministry. His weekly podcast, Football, Family, and Faith, inspires listeners with stories of redemption, leadership, and faith in action. Rev. Faulkner’s life reflects a tireless pursuit of God’s kingdom, calling others to rise, lead and serve with Christ-centered purpose.
