Dr. John S. Little, a native of Hazlehurst, Mississippi, is a dedicated pastor, community leader, and servant of
Christ. After fulfilling his military service obligations, he relocated to Columbus, Ohio, where he found his
spiritual home at Mt. Hermon Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Bishop Donald J. Washington.
His commitment to serving the Lord became evident as he immersed himself in various ministries, honing his
leadership and pastoral skills.
Dr. Little answered his call to the ministry by delivering his first sermon on March 18, 1990. His passion for
spreading the Gospel and growing involvement in the church led to his ordination on January 8, 1995. From that
point forward, Dr. Little took on significant roles within the church, serving as both the Christian Education
Director and Church Administrator, where he guided the church’s spiritual education programs and operational
management until December 2003.
On April 9, 2000, Dr. Little responded to God's call to lead Resurrection Missionary Baptist Church. As Senior
Pastor, he envisioned a church that went beyond the sanctuary's walls, reaching out to the broader community.
His vision materialized through the founding of the Koinonia Development Corporation (CDC), an organization
designed to bridge the gap between the church and the residents of Southside Columbus. Through holistic
ministry efforts, including evangelism, outreach programs, and social services, Dr. Little ensured that
Resurrection Missionary Baptist Church became a beacon of hope and support for its community.
In a new chapter of his ministry, Dr. Little accepted the call to serve as the sixth pastor of Mt. Hermon
Missionary Baptist Church on September 29, 2024. Returning to the church where his spiritual journey began,
he brings a wealth of experience, vision, and passion to lead the congregation forward while continuing the
legacy of his predecessors.
His leadership extends beyond his local congregation. Dr. Little is deeply involved in several prominent
religious organizations and holds key leadership roles. He currently serves as the President of the Baptist
Pastors' Conference of Columbus & Vicinity, guiding fellow pastors in their shared mission of spiritual
leadership. He is also a former Moderator of the Eastern Union Missionary Baptist Association, Inc., where he
provided direction and support to churches across the region. In addition, Dr. Little is an active member of the
Baptist Ministerial Alliance of Columbus & Vicinity, the Ohio Baptist General Convention, the National Baptist
Convention, USA, Inc., the NAACP, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Rho Chi Sigma Chapter.
Dr. Little's academic achievements reflect his commitment to theological study and spiritual growth. He earned
his Bachelor of Ministry degree from Trinity College, followed by a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry
from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. His education has equipped him to approach ministry with
both a practical and deeply theological perspective, allowing him to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a heart
for service.
Outside of his ministry work, Dr. Little is a devoted family man. He and his wife, LaDonna, have been blessed
with a son, JeVon, and a granddaughter, JeVonna, who continue to inspire him in both his personal and pastoral
life.
Dr. John S. Little's legacy is one of visionary leadership, faithful service, and a deep love for God’s people. His
tireless dedication to both his church and the broader community has left a lasting impact, making him a
respected and influential figure in both local and national Baptist circles.