For more than five decades, Pastor Rev. Dr. Lester J. Gillespie, Sr. has stood as a pillar of faith, leadership and unwavering commitment to the people of San Antonio and beyond. As the Organizer and Pastor of Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church on Peck Avenue, he has faithfully served as undershepherd since 1985, guiding his congregation with a steady hand and a powerful voice rooted in purpose and conviction.
A native son of San Antonio, Pastor Gillespie’s journey is deeply grounded in family, faith and legacy. Born to the late Rev. W. G. Gillespie and Sis. Vernell Gillespie-Jones, he carries forward a spiritual lineage that continues to impact generations. Alongside his wife, the Honorable Kimberly S. Gillespie, he has built a strong family foundation as a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather, reflecting the same values he instills within his church community.
Known for preaching a dynamic and uncompromised Word, Pastor Gillespie has spent 54 years delivering messages that inspire, challenge and uplift. His ministry extends far beyond the pulpit. Under his leadership, Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church recently completed a significant building expansion, symbolizing both physical and spiritual growth within the congregation.
His influence reaches across local, state and national platforms. Pastor Gillespie served 25 years as National President of Ministers United for Ministerial Development and now holds the title of President Emeritus. His leadership roles have included positions within the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America and the Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas, along with numerous boards, ministries and outreach initiatives focused on strengthening communities and developing future leaders.
A champion for education and empowerment, he founded the Rev. W. G. Gillespie and Vernell Gillespie-Jones Memorial Institute Scholarship Fund, ensuring that opportunities for advancement remain accessible for generations to come. His commitment to service has also been evident through his work in jail ministries, gang intervention efforts and civic leadership, including his recent role with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission in San Antonio.Pastor Gillespie’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous honors, including the Pulpit Leadership Award and recognition as Outstanding Pastor of the Year. He is also an academy member of the Clergy Hall of Fame and was inducted into Black Worship SA’s Clergy Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the most respected spiritual leaders of his time.
Come celebrate Pastor Gillespie this Sunday, March 29th at 3pm with special guest preacher Pastor Gary L. Roberts at Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church 1534 Peck Ave. San Antonio, TX 78210
