Leadership

Rev. Orienthal JuShun Newburn, Sr. (Pastor OJ) is a dynamic and visionary spiritual leader with over two decades of pastoral experience, dedicated to fostering ministries that bridge tradition and innovation. Currently serving as Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Beloit, Wisconsin, he combines charismatic preaching, compassionate leadership, and a commitment to community transformation. His ministry philosophy centers on empowering disciples to live out their faith beyond Sunday worship, permeating their communities as global ambassadors of Christ’s love.  

Pastor OJ comes from a family full of preachers. His calling was acknowledged and affirmed in 1994, leading to his ordination in 1996. His narrative, expository preaching style—rooted in Jesus’ use of parables—delivers biblically sound, culturally relevant messages that resonate across generations. He has served as Senior Pastor in North Little Rock, AR, Texarkana, TX, and currently in Beloit, WI.
 
Pastor Newburn’s leadership extends to recovery ministries (prison, grief, divorce), hospital/nursing home visitation, and training future ministry leaders. He is passionate about fostering healthy congregational relationships and leveraging technology for spiritual growth.  

 A lifelong learner, Pastor Newburn holds a  Master of Divinity from Winebrenner Theological Seminary and plans to pursue a  Doctor of Ministry in Interdisciplinary Studies (Preaching and Chaplaincy) at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL, beginning Fall 2025. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock. His secular career spans 28 years in healthcare, including roles as a Hospice Chaplain, Certified Medical Coder, and Adjunct Instructor in medical coding. This dual expertise enriches his holistic approach to ministry, blending administrative acumen with pastoral care.  

 Married to Veronica Newburn, PA-C—a trailblazing physician assistant and health advocate—the couple partners in ministry and community service. Veronica leads youth programs, praise dance, and health initiatives at their church, while Pastor Newburn mentors through basketball officiating, quizmaster games, and blogging. They are proud parents of two sons, OJ Jr.  and Landyn who reside in Northwest Arkansas where they attend college.  

A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Pastor Newburn values fellowship, mentorship, and civic engagement. His hobbies reflect his love for family, intellectual challenges, and creative expression.  

 Pastor Newburn’s life mission is encapsulated in his mantra: “Our purpose extends beyond Sunday morning.” He envisions churches as thriving hubs of spiritual and communal renewal, equipping believers to impact their world with grace, truth, and innovation.  He is passionate about end-of-life comfort care and attention to the dying and caregivers.

“I am committed to shepherding a church where the Word is alive, disciples are made, and communities are transformed.” 
– Pastor OJ Newburn, Sr., M. Div.