COVER STORY
enhancing his understanding of complex theological concepts. Recognizing his significant contributions and commitment to theological scholarship, St. Thomas University bestowed upon him an Honorary Doctorate Degree. Not content with resting on his laurels, Dr. Hodge continued his pursuit of knowledge, culminating in a second doctorate degree, awarded in 2017 from Life Christian University. This second doctorate further demonstrates his deep- seated devotion to academic persuit and commitment to life-long learning. “I’m passionately committed to literally transforming the community—one person at a time.” Before embarking on his pastoral journey, Dr. Ellis Hodge honed his skills and nurtured his calling through dedicated service at Mt. Zion Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. His time at Mt. Zion provided invaluable experience in ministering to the needs of the community and fostering spiritual growth within the congregation. In 1990, recognizing his unwavering faith and exceptional gifts, the church called and licensed him to preach, officially acknowledging his burgeoning ministry. Eight years later, in 1998, with the full blessing and support of his pastor, God called Dr. Ellis Hodge to a new and significant undertaking: to establish Word of Life Fellowship Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. This endeavor marked the beginning of his journey as a
approach to personal and professional development, as well as Beacon Theological Seminary, and Bethune- Cookman University, deepening his spiritual grounding and preparing him for a life dedicated to faith. Later, he diligently pursued and earned a Bachelor of Theology degree from Christian Faith College, solidifying his theological foundation. This was followed by a Master of Arts in Theology from Life Christian University, further
at GTE/Verizon provided him with valuable experience in communication and technology, further broadening his skillset and contributing to his understanding of the modern world. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and spiritual understanding, Dr. Ellis Hodge pursued a rigorous course of academic and theological studies. He began by attending the U.S. Air Force Community College, a testament to his proactive
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EC Magazines | Los Angeles Edition 2025
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