BISHOP JOEL H. LYLES, JR.
Bishop Joel Harley Lyles, Jr., a dynamic and visionary leader, represents the third generation of devoted members within the Church Of God In Christ (COGIC). The legacy of faith and service began with his grandparents, Deacon Ulysses and Mother Minnie Johnson, esteemed pioneers of the Church Of God In Christ in Maryland, and profoundly influenced by his parents, Joel Harley Lyles, Sr., and Mother Gladys Johnson Lyles. This rich heritage has deeply rooted Bishop Lyles in the principles of holiness, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of the Church. His personal qualities of humility, compassion, and a strong work ethic have greatly contributed to his leadership style and the respect he receives within the Church.
Since September 1987, Bishop Lyles has faithfully served as the Senior Pastor of Greater
Emmanuel Ministries Church Of God In Christ, a church he founded with just seven members in an inner-city storefront. Under his visionary leadership, the ministry has grown in its membership and resides on a sprawling 4.5-acre campus at the Baltimore City/Baltimore County border. The campus features an 11,000 sq. ft. edifice/office complex, which houses various ministries designed to serve the community’s spiritual, educational, and social needs.
Bishop Lyles’ influence extends far beyond his local congregation. He has held numerous key leadership positions within the Church Of God In Christ at the district, jurisdictional, and national levels. His roles, such as Secretary of the Northeastern District, Jurisdictional Secretary, Chief of Staff of Greater Maryland First Jurisdiction, National Adjutant Overseer, Assistant Coordinator/Secretary of the Constitutional Convention, Assistant General Secretary for Administration, and AIM 2003 Local Committee Chairman, have allowed him to significantly influence the Church’s governance and its national initiatives.
A pivotal moment in his ministry came during the National Celebration of Life for Elder A. Z. Hall, Jr. (General Secretary 2000-2007). In recognition of his knowledge, faithfulness, leadership, and dedication, Presiding Bishop G. E. Patterson and the General Board appointed Elder Lyles as Interim General Secretary. His exceptional performance in this role led to his election by the General Assembly in April 2007 as the ninth General Secretary of the Church of God In Christ, succeeding Elder Hall.
Following Bishop David Washington Spann, Sr.’s passing in December 2007, Elder Lyles was selected to succeed him as the Prelate of Greater Maryland First Jurisdiction. His consecration in March 2008 in Baltimore, Maryland, by Presiding Bishop Charles Edward Blake. Sr. and Members of the General Board was a testament to his steadfast leadership and spiritual maturity.
Recognized as an astute administrator, a masterful organizer, and a devout churchman, Bishop Lyles also possesses a keen knowledge of constitutional, legislative, and ecclesiastical matters. His ministry is marked by a profound awareness of eternal values, and he remains unwaveringly committed to preaching the gospel and upholding the foundational doctrines of the Church of God in Christ.
For almost 33 years, Bishop Lyles has been married to a praying and supportive wife, Supervisor Vell Melissa Hayes Lyles, Ed.D. Their enduring marriage is not just a testament to their shared dedication to their family and calling, but also a source of strength and stability that enriches Bishop Lyles’ leadership. Together, they are the proud parents of a daughter, Ashley Deborah Melissa Lyles, who embodies the values and legacy of their family.