Meet Our Pastor

Pastor McClendon is the second of four children born to Henry and Elizabeth McClendon, Sr.  and attended the Detroit Public School system. One of the most defining moments in Henry’s life occurred in October 1976 when he received Jesus Christ as his personal savior, at Vernon Chapel AME. He graduated from Cass Technical High School in June 1979 and went on to Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI. Between 1979 and 1984, Brother McClendon’s appreciation for the Word of God was ignited and cultivated through the ministry of Pastor King A. Butler, of Bible Baptist Church located in Kalamazoo, MI. He was also encouraged during that time by Brother Roderick Walker through his  discipleship ministry, specifically his involvement in the Campus Crusade for Christ, and Navigators Ministries at Western Michigan University (WSU). Brother McClendon attended Berean Chapel after graduating from WSU in August of 1984. 

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Soon after, Brother McClendon and the love of his life, Cheryl, married in April of 1985. They are now the proud parents of three adult children, Henry III (Dominique), James (Sarah), De’La, and four awesome grand-children, Tristan, Eric, Harlei & Hunter. 

After moving to Detroit’s East Side, Henry later joined and began serving at Metropolitan Community Tabernacle. In 1987, Brother McClendon informed Brother William James Coleman, his then pastor, of his desire to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pastor Coleman willingly began to encourage, mentor, and provide opportunities for Brother McClendon to minister at Metropolitan until his passing in June 1988. On May 31, 1989, Brother McClendon was officially licensed to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ by Elder George W. Washington. 

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During his twenty-one years at Metropolitan, Brother McClendon served in many capacities including: Preacher, Elder, Sunday School Teacher, Counselor, United Assemblies of Detroit Youth Conference Coordinator, and Workshop Leader. Additionally he served as a member of the Source of Light International Missions Team in the country of Jamaica. During this time he also became acquainted with and an advocate for the concept of Restorative Justice (an alternative response to crime that focuses on repairing harm and restoring relationships).

On Sunday, November 19, 2006, after much prayer and godly counsel, Brother McClendon was installed to serve as the sixth Pastor of Berean Chapel. Since his installation he has continually proven his passion to educate God's People and embrace intrinsic value with Christ like characteristics. His efforts also  include his affiliations with Circle Y Ranch, B.O.M.B. Squad, and the United Assemblies Men's Conference.

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 Brother McClendon’s professional career includes: 

• 15+ years vested with the International Institute of Restorative Practices 

• 10-years as a U.S. Army Reserve Officer

• 7 years on the Executive Staff of former Detroit Mayor Coleman A. Young, Sr., 

• 2 years as Prison Fellowship’s Southeast Michigan Area Director 

• 3 years as Director of their prison aftercare initiative Transition of Prisoners (TOP)

• 9 years as Director of Youth Development for New Detroit, Inc.

• 6 years Program Officer for The Skillman Foundation