We’re looking forward to introducing you to Derrick Thorpe. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Derrick, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Morning
Personal devotion, prayer, exercise, breakfast.
Emails, calls, light admin.
Afternoon
Lunch
Hospital visits, counseling sessions, or community work.
Admin tasks, planning upcoming services/events.
Evening
Family time/dinner.
Bible study, prayer meeting, small group, or counseling.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Derrick Thorpe. I am a passionate pastor, chaplain, and community leader committed to creative and transformative ministry. I currently serve as senior pastor of First Baptist Missionary Church and as a military chaplain, bridging faith and service in unique ways. I’m rooted in building connections across generations, developing fresh avenues for ministry, and inspiring people through sermons, teaching, and writing. My brand is about making faith practical, relevant, and life-giving-whether that’s in the pulpit, on the frontlines, or in the community. Currently, he’s working on projects that combine spiritual care, leadership development, and outreach to underserved communities, with a vision of helping the church rediscover its purpose in today’s world.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Stepping into the role of military chaplain as shaped how I see the world. Standing alongside soldiers, hearing their struggles, hopes, and fears, opened my eyes to how deeply people need both faith and compassion in real, everyday battles. It showed me that ministry isn’t just about the pulpit; it’s about presence, listening, and walking with people where they are. That experience reshaped how I approach leadership, church, and life, I see the world now as a place where God’s grace shows up in unexpected spaces, and where our calling is to meet people right in the middle of their story.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were times when the weight of family, church and military responsibilities, unanswered prayers, or feeling overlooked made me question whether to keep going. But in those moments, I found strength in remembering my calling, leaning on my faith, and drawing encouragement from the very people I serve. Those low points didn’t end my journey, they deepened it, shaping me into someone who understands struggle and can walk with others through theirs.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
They would say I have a heart for people, he listens, encourages, and shows up when it matters most. They might also share that while he takes his work and ministry seriously, he doesn’t take himself too seriously.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in the presence of God and fully immersed in service, whether that’s preaching, praying, or quietly walking alongside someone in need.
Contact Info:
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/rev-dr-derrick-thorpe-sr-b2181236
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derrick.thorpe.5/
