ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The making of a Bishop.
From poverty in Westland to the counsel
of presidents — a life measured in
elevation.
Bishop Ira Combs, Jr. with Lady Kimberly L. Combs
Bishop Ira Combs, Jr., D.D., is the founder and pastor of Greater Bible Way Temple Church of the Apostolic Faith in Jackson, Michigan — a congregation he grew from a 400-square-foot room seating thirty into a 42,000-square-foot cathedral seating twelve hundred.
Ordained with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World — the oldest and second-largest Pentecostal organization in the world — he carries a rare combination of qualifications: degrees in theology, a pastor's heart, and executive training in finance. It is a blend that lets him lead with insight, compassion, and business savvy alike.
"Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love."
Born in Ypsilanti in 1958, the fifth of ten children, he was raised through racial injustice, a pervasive drug culture, and a complex relationship with an abusive father. He had every excuse to become trapped and bitter. He chose a different path — one that led from Michigan State University and Bible college to a lifelong pastorate, and to service at the highest levels of state and national life.
An exceptional Bible teacher, community leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Bishop Combs served for eight years as Director of Faith-Based Initiatives for the State of Michigan under President George W. Bush, and is founder and Executive Director of Christ Centered Homes, Inc., caring for the developmentally disabled across his community.
The Ascent
A ministry, and a life, measured in elevation.
1958
Born in Ypsilanti, Michigan
The fifth of ten children, raised through poverty and hardship in Westland — with every reason to grow bitter, and a choice to grow determined instead.
1980
Founds Greater Bible Way Temple
Establishes and incorporates the Greater Bible Way Temple of the Apostolic Faith in Jackson, Michigan — the beginning of a lifelong pastorate.
1989
Founds Christ Centered Homes, Inc.
A nonprofit providing housing and personal care for the developmentally disabled, born from a conviction that people of faith should care for the least fortunate.
2000
Director of Faith-Based Initiatives
Appointed under President George W. Bush to lead Michigan's faith-based work, hosting statewide summits and serving on the initiative's national steering committee.
2014
Elevated to Diocesan Bishop
Appointed by the P.A.W. Board of Bishops to the office of Diocesan Bishop, 5th Episcopal District — overseeing 120 churches across Michigan and Canada.
Honors & Service
A record of leadership across faith, policy, and industry.
I
Presidential Counsel
Steering committee member of President George W. Bush's national Faith-Based Initiative and a Michigan team leader for the presidential campaign.
II
National Spokesperson
Served alongside Ambassador Andrew Young for Working Families for Walmart and appeared as a regular commentator on CNBC.
III
Civil Rights & Human Services
Appointed to the Michigan Civil Rights Commission and to state boards protecting children and vulnerable adults.
IV
Scholar of Faith & Finance
Multiple honorary doctorates, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, and finance study at Oxford University as a member of the Oxford Club.
V
Published Author
Author of "17 Titles of a Pastor" and "The Era of Apostolic Excellence," alongside his memoir of resilience.
VI
Recognized Leadership
Named RNC "Entrepreneur of the Year," featured on the cover of Jackson Magazine, and profiled across national Who's Who directories.
A Life in Frames
Moments from a journey of faith and service.
Bishop Ira Combs, Jr.
D.D. · Bishop · Pastor · Author