Hebrews 12:14
"Pursue peace with everyone and holiness, for without it no one will see the Lord."

LEADERSHIP
Elder Riley David Murry
Elder R. D. Murry has faithfully served the Lord and the Church of God in Christ for decades, dedicating his life to preaching the Gospel, shepherding God’s people, and advancing the Kingdom of God.
Before accepting his call into ministry, Elder Murry was a member of a gospel quartet called The Original Holy Kings. For several years, he traveled and ministered through song, sharing the Gospel in churches and communities while recording gospel music with the group. His love for worship and spreading the message of Christ through music became an important foundation for the ministry that would later follow.
In 1972, Elder Murry gave his life to Christ while attending Center Hill Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Elder G. W. Harris. Although he had attended church throughout much of his life, accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Savior marked the beginning of a deeper commitment to serving God. Following his years in gospel music, Elder Murry answered God’s call to preach and began serving in evangelistic ministry. He traveled throughout Kemper County, Mississippi, and the surrounding communities, conducting revivals and faithfully proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
In 1985, Elder Murry was ceremonially ordained by the late Bishop L. H. Ford at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. His passion for sharing God’s Word and serving His people continued to grow, leading him into decades of faithful ministry. In 1995, Elder R. D. Murry was appointed Pastor of Gates of Joy Church of God in Christ, where he has faithfully served ever since. At the time of his appointment, the district had been reorganized as District 12, where Elder Isaac Harris served as District Superintendent.
Throughout his years of ministry, Elder Murry also served as District Evangelist, faithfully proclaiming the Gospel and encouraging churches throughout the district. His ministry has been marked by unwavering faith, servant leadership, evangelism, and a steadfast commitment to sharing God’s Word.
Elder Murry has shared 70 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Dorothy Murry. Together, they have built a legacy centered on faith, love, and service to God while inspiring their family, church, and community through their Christian example.
The guiding scripture of Elder Murry is:
Hebrews 12:14: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.”
This Scripture has served as both the foundation of his ministry and the message he desires to leave with future generations. Through decades of faithful service, Elder R. D. Murry has remained committed to preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, leading God’s people with humility, and leaving a lasting legacy of faith that continues to impact lives for the glory of God.