Where his faith journey began.Pastor Edgar J. Butler, Sr. is a steadfast and compassionate servant leader whose life reflects strength, humility, and unwavering devotion to the people of God. A man of prayer, purpose, and principle, he has dedicated his ministry to nurturing souls, mentoring leaders, and advancing the Kingdom with both spiritual power and practical wisdom.Pastor Butler was baptized in the name of Jesus on April 19, 1991, and filled with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost on January 24, 1993, under the anointed leadership of the late Pastor Annie M. Wood at Emmanuel Assembly Church of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (P.A.W.). As the first in his family to receive the Holy Ghost, he boldly embraced the Apostolic faith.He stands firmly on the biblical foundation that there is “One Lord, one faith, one baptism; One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Ephesians 4:5–6). He believes in water baptism in Jesus’ Name, the infilling of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance, and remains fully committed to the Apostolic doctrine.

From faithful service to a clear call.Pastor Butler’s journey into ministry developed through years of faithful service, spiritual growth, prayer, and obedience to God.As he continued serving the church and God’s people, his calling became increasingly clear. He embraced the responsibility to teach, encourage, mentor, and lead while remaining committed to serving wherever he was needed.His call to ministry was not simply about holding a position—it became a lifelong commitment to caring for people, strengthening believers, and advancing the work of the Kingdom.

Years of serving, teaching, mentoring, and leading.During his tenure at Emmanuel Assembly Church, Pastor Butler embraced numerous leadership roles, including Sunday School Superintendent, Usher Board President, Church Secretary, Church Trustee, and Church Treasurer.He also served faithfully in various church auxiliaries, including the Brotherhood Choir, Children’s Ministry, Outreach Ministry, and other areas of service.These years helped shape his leadership style—one rooted in humility, accountability, consistency, and genuine concern for people.

Spiritual preparation strengthened by study and training.Pastor Butler’s preparation for ministry has been shaped through biblical study, ministerial training, spiritual discipline, and years of practical leadership experience.His development has included opportunities to teach, administer, mentor, serve, and grow alongside other leaders within the church.Through every season of preparation, he has remained committed to learning, growing, and faithfully handling the responsibilities God has placed before him.

The journey that led to Greater Emmanuel.After years of faithful ministry and preparation, Pastor Butler entered a new season of assignment and leadership.In 2024, he stepped forward in obedience to the call to pastor Greater Emmanuel Apostolic Ministries, carrying a vision centered on God’s presence, biblical truth, discipleship, outreach, and strengthening families and communities.Greater Emmanuel represents both a continuation of years of preparation and the beginning of a new chapter of Kingdom work.

Faith, family, and a ministry that continues beyond one generation.Pastor Butler is joyfully united in marriage to Evangelist Penny Butler, his partner in life and ministry for more than thirty years.Together, they are blessed with two sons, Edgar Jr. and Joseph, who carry forward the spiritual legacy of their home.For Pastor Butler, ministry is not only about what is built in the present—it is also about what is planted for the future.His desire is to see believers mature in faith, families strengthened, leaders equipped, and the next generation prepared to continue the work of the Kingdom.