St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating the retirement of Rev. Dr. Philip L. Shobe after 33 years of leadership and welcomes Rev. R.E. Robinson as its new pastor.

Shobe, the church’s seventh pastor in its 109-year history, began serving the historic Martindale Brightwood congregation in 1992. Under his guidance, the church erected a new facility in 2009, expanded to online services and strengthened a culture of stewardship and discipleship.

Known as a “pastor’s pastor,” he trained numerous ministers who now lead churches of their own. His final sermon, a family tribute and a chapel rededication in his honor capped a month of celebrations in July.

Robinson, who delivered his first sermon on Aug. 3, brings nearly 30 years of ministry experience, including roles as youth pastor

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