Dr. John-Paul C. Foster
Dr. John-Paul C. Foster, born in London and raised across the United Kingdom, Florida, and California, developed a keen interest in sports from an early age, with a particular affinity for basketball. His high school years were marked by the inception of a profound spiritual journey, which became more pronounced during his junior year in college. This period of deep reflection and discovery led him to redirect his career path from neurosurgery to pastoral ministry, prompting his transfer to Biola University.
In pursuit of academic and spiritual excellence, Dr. Foster obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Biola University and a Master's Degree from Talbot Theological Seminary. He further broadened his expertise with studies at prestigious institutions such as Oxford, focusing on Church Unity and Reconciliation, and the King's University, where he studied Organization Leadership. His academic endeavors also included Prophetic Literature at Moody Bible Institute, culminating in a doctorate in Homiletics from Talbot School of Theology.
Currently, Dr. Foster holds the position of Adjunct Professor at Biola University and Talbot School of Theology. His areas of teaching include Hermeneutics, Biblical Interpretation, and Spiritual Formation. He also plays an active role in several committees and serves on the Community and Church Relations Board.
Apart from his academic responsibilities, Dr. Foster is actively involved in collaborative efforts with scholars to promote diversity in theological education. He also engages in national initiatives against racial injustice, efforts that have earned him recognition and accolades, including awards from the Israel Christian-Nexus.
His ministerial career has been significantly shaped by his time at Faithful Central Bible Church, under the mentorship of Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer. Beginning his journey as the Young Adult Pastor in 2015, Dr. Foster demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, progressing to the role of Assistant Pastor in 2019, and later Co-Pastor in 2021. On January 26, 2023, he was unanimously elected as the fourth senior pastor of Faithful Central Bible Church.
Outside of his professional and ministerial commitments, Dr. Foster is dedicated to his family life. He has been married to his wife, Karmen, for over a decade, and they are the proud parents of two children, John-Paul II and Payton. Balancing professional dedication with family responsibilities and his deep-rooted faith, Dr. Foster embodies the essence of a committed family man, scholar, and community leader.