Rev. Dr. Christopher L Zacharias is an energetic proclaimer of the gospel of Jesus Christ. His passion is God’s people and their spiritual and physical well-being. Dr. Zacharias has been preaching and pastoring for over 20 years after being ordained by Bishop Marshall Strickland in 1999. 

Dr. Zacharias is a native of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, and the son of Fred Jr. and Helene Zacharias. His extensive education includes an undergraduate degree in Communications from Wilkes University, a Master’s degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary. He continued his education by obtaining certificates in Coaching, Teaching, and Community Development.

As an economic leader, Pastor Zacharias works and partners with diverse groups on social and economic justice issues. He is recognized as one who brings others together to work on common causes for Christ and God’s people. He currently serves as the Vice President of the D.C. Mayor’s Interfaith Council, an executive board member of Metro Interfaith Council in D.C., and a board member of the Leadership Council of Healthy Churches, along with serving multiple community organizations. Pastor Zacharias has served as the Third Vice President of the NAACP - San Francisco, on the Board of Directors for the Buchanan YMCA of San Francisco, on executive boards for Unity – Bridging the Gap between African Americans and Jews, Faith in Action, and on the Interfaith Council in San Francisco and Washington, DC.

Dr. Zacharias leaves a legacy of effective ministry endeavors and accomplishments at each church he serves, including St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church, Coraopolis, PA; St. Mark A.M.E. Zion Church, Wilkinsburg, PA; Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church, Ridgewood, NJ; Rock Hill A.M.E. Zion Church, Indian Trail, NC; Mount Pisgah A.M.E. Zion Church, Rockingham, NC; and First Church A.M.E. Zion Church, San Francisco, CA. He currently serves as the Pastor of John Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Zacharias is a published author of “Spiritual Renewal for an Abundant Life,” a 40-day devotion for the Lenten season. Additionally, he has numerous published articles, including “Authentic Care toward God’s People” in the book “United Against Racism-Churches for Change.” Dr. Zacharias continues to identify with many for his dynamic teaching of God’s word and has earned a reputation as a powerful preacher and a devoted pastor. He has a passion for being a shepherd to God’s people. His nurturing and giving spirit positively touches the lives of those under his leadership as he boldly seeks to fulfill the plan and purpose of Almighty God. Among his many titles, Dr. Zacharias is a father and blessed to be married to his lovely wife and soulmate, Lady Kim.