Pastor John F. Hannah is a husband, pastor, speaker, and author who’s impacted thousands of lives through his ministry, prayer, and dedication to service. The foundation for his pastoral passion is rooted in his love for urban youth and teaching others how to grow their relationship with God through prayer. He began his career as a Juvenile Probation Officer in Chicago’s Cook County and eventually transitioned into serving as a youth pastor at a local church for many years. It was during these times that opportunities developed, leading John to perfect the calling for his destiny as the shepherd of a remarkable organization that would become New Life. Today, John F. Hannah is the founder and lead pastor of New Life Covenant Church Southeast, a non-denominational, multicultural church on the Southside of Chicago. Presently, the church has grown to more than 20,000 members, including online membership. While the numbers suggest a megachurch sized atmosphere, the spirit of the house and its members promote a family environment, committed to serving God and our Community. In addition to pastoring, John F. Hannah is committed to teaching others how to grow their relationship with God through prayer. This is demonstrated every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month when he leads 4AM Prayer at NLCSE, through his spontaneous Facebook Live and Instagram sessions, and at various churches and venues around the world. He is also the best-selling author of What to Do While You’re Waiting, Desperate for Jesus and Just PRAY. John F. Hannah lives in Chicago, IL with his wife of 30+ years, Anna Hannah – who also serves alongside him. She is dedicated to supporting his vision and the mission of New Life Covenant Southeast.

Maranda Curtis is a Grammy-nominated gospel artist celebrated for her powerful vocals and deeply moving worship experiences. She gained national recognition with her 2017 debut EP, The Maranda Experience, Vol. 1, which topped Billboard’s Gospel Albums chart. Her 2018 live album, Open Heaven: The Maranda Experience, also reached No. 1 and earned seven Stellar Award nominationsIn 2022, Curtis released Die To Live, a 15-track album blending live and studio recordings. Recorded in Toronto, the album features songs like “Lazarus,” “Run,” and the title track “Die To Live,” showcasing her versatility and heartfelt worship.Her latest album, Worship Restored, released on April 25, 2025, continues to highlight her dynamic vocal range and commitment to authentic worship. The album includes tracks such as “He Answered” featuring Kira Daffin, “The Name of Jesus (Live),” and “You’ve Been So Faithful (Live)”Curtis remains a prominent figure in contemporary gospel music, known for her emotive performances and dedication to leading worship that resonates with audiences worldwide. 

The Right Reverend Doctor Jacqueline E. McCullough was elevated to the bishopric in August 2015, and is the Senior Pastor and Founder of The International Gathering at Beth Rapha, in Pomona, NY. She is the General Overseer of the Rapha Alliance Ministries, a fellowship of 20 churches. Her vision for evangelistic ministry inspired her to establish Precious JEM Ministries, Inc., a non-profit religious organization, where she serves as President & CEO.

Bishop McCullough, a native of Kingston, Jamaica, was awarded her Doctorate of Ministry from Drew Theological Seminary, and also holds a Master of Arts in Philosophy from New York University. She has also engaged in postgraduate study at the Jewish Theological Seminary.

Bishop Hankerson was saved at 8 and has walked with the Lord faithfully for 44 years: saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking with tongues and victory over sin.

He is a General Board member of the Church Of God In Christ. He holds a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts and Doctorate of Divinity.

He has 30 years of pastoral experience and has been in the ministry for 37 years. He is Senior Pastor and founder of Life Center International C.O.G.I.C. of Saint Louis, MO. He is also Jurisdictional Bishop and founder of Missouri Midwest Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, comprised of 67 pastors.

In the “National,” the bishop has served as three term President of the International Department of Evangelism; along with 17 other jobs and assignments.

Heavily involved in the community, Bishop Hankerson served as past President of the Saint Louis Metropolitan Clergy Coalition (the oldest and largest minority clergy association in St Louis). He has been appointed by the Saint Louis County Executive to the St. Louis County Justice Services Advisory Board. He is a “Life Member” of the NAACP.

Dr. Hankerson initiated the Life Center Radio Program and the Keys for Life Television Program. He now has an extensive social media following of over 1,000,000 viewers annually.

Bishop Hankerson has travelled extensively, including: all 50 states and many countries. He has been sent to the nation of Israel on four occasions, having the honor to have preached the Gospel in Jerusalem, Israel twice.

The love and inspiration of Dr. Hankerson’s life is his lovely wife, Evangelist Rachel L. Hankerson of 23 years and 9 months (who went home to be with the Lord) and their three children: Elijah IV, Raquel and Matthew, who are 5th generation members of COGIC.