Wright Named Outlook’s Pastor of the Year

Pastor of the Year Rev. Joseph Wright

By Christal Searcy
Outlook Writer

There aren’t many people who can move and inspire others with their words but Reverend Joseph Wright of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church has the gift. Capital Outlook and Live Communications recognized Rev. Joseph Wrights’ gifts by naming him the pastor of the year.
Wright credits God for gifting him as a servant to do His works and is humbled by the accolade.

“It’s quite an honor and a privilege to have been chosen as pastor of the year. I don’t take things like this lightly. I’ve been involved in many different issues in life like political issues, social issues and spiritual issues. The Lord has gifted me to be able to be a servant,” said Wright.

Wright does not only share his gift with his church but also with the city of Tallahassee. For example, Wright spoke up when former Leon County Judge Judith Hawkins was removed from the bench and urged the Florida Supreme Court to reconsider. Wright also joined the boycott efforts of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT).

Wright, an activist leaves his church to fight for his community, he uses his authority to speak out against injustice and be where he is needed.
“I will continue to do what I’ve always done and wherever the people see the good that I am able to do then I am pleased,” Wright added.
Rev. R.B. Holmes, pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and publisher of the Capital Outlook chose Wright as pastor of the year.

“He has always been a fighter for the oppressed. He is very courageous and a committed servant of the Lord,” Holmes said.

Mahalia Jackson’s song “If I Can Help Somebody” applies to Wright and his endeavors.

“There’s a little motto I use to say a lot and it’s a quote from a song, ‘If I can do my duty, as a good man ought. If I can bring back beauty, to a world up wrought. If I can spread love’s message, as the Master taught. Then my living shall not be in vain,’ ” Wright said.