Our Pastor & First Lady
Bishop Dr. Edward A. Nyarko is a faithful servant of God whose life and ministry are marked by a deep commitment to the Word of God, the care of His people, and the advancement of the Kingdom of God. In April 2025, Bishop Nyarko was appointed Senior Pastor of the Church of God of Woodycrest Avenue in the Bronx, New York, where he continues to serve the congregation with humility, wisdom, and a shepherd’s heart. He also serves as an Ordained Bishop of the Church of God International, headquartered in Cleveland, Tennessee. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Bishop Nyarko serves as the Director of Community Affairs for the Pastoral Care Department at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, where he provides leadership and oversight to chaplains representing diverse faith traditions and ensures that patients and families receive compassionate spiritual care. He has also served as Chairperson of the Spiritual Care Council for NYC Health + Hospitals Corporation, providing spiritual leadership and guidance across 11 hospitals and 5 diagnostic centers throughout New York City. Bishop Nyarko’s educational journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from The City College of New York, a Master of Professional Studies from Alliance Theological Seminary, and both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from New York Theological Seminary.
Prior to entering full-time pastoral and chaplaincy ministry, Bishop Nyarko served faithfully as an industrial hygienist, demonstrating his concern for the health, safety, and well-being of others. His passion for people and his desire to minister to the whole person have continued to shape his calling. He serves as Chairperson of the Salvation Army Advisory Council Board of Harlem Temple Corps, where he works to strengthen outreach and compassionate service to the Harlem community. His previous service on the New York Theological Seminary Clinical Pastoral Education Advisory Council reflects his continued commitment to encouraging and preparing those called to spiritual leadership. Bishop Nyarko holds firmly to the total inerrancy and authority of Holy Scripture and believes that the Church is called to honor God, exhort His servants, and love the saints, drawing men and women into the Kingdom of God. He is committed to proclaiming the timeless truth of Scripture in a manner that speaks faithfully and meaningfully to people of every culture and generation, always seeking to remain relevant without ever compromising the truth of God’s Word. Through preaching, teaching, prayer, pastoral counseling, and compassionate service, he considers it both a privilege and a sacred responsibility to walk alongside God’s people and encourage them in their faith.
Bishop Nyarko is blessed to share his life and ministry with his beloved wife, Rev. Esther Nyarko, whom he affectionately describes as the “Queen of his world.” Together, they are the proud parents of two children, Jeanette McGill and Joshua Nyarko, and the grateful grandparents of seven grandchildren. Bishop Nyarko also considers the many spiritual sons and daughters whom God has entrusted to his care to be a cherished part of his family and ministry. He is a man who values prayer, family, fellowship, and the privilege of serving others. With a shepherd’s heart and an unwavering confidence in God’s Word, Bishop Nyarko continues to answer the call of God with humility, faithfulness, and love. Since accepting the pastoral appointment in April 2025, he has embraced the congregation of the Church of God of Woodycrest Avenue with a sincere desire to serve, encourage, and lead God’s people. His prayer and vision are to see the congregation grow deeper in its relationship with Christ, discover and fulfill its God-given purpose, and faithfully serve the Lord and one another, all for the glory of God.