Rev. Dr. William E. Crowder Jr., a longtime pastor at Chicago’s Park Manor Christian Church, has stepped into a new role as the first African American to lead the regional body of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) across Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. His unanimous selection as Regional Minister and President of the newly formed Living Waters Region places him at the head of 155 congregations. This organizational shift follows the recent merger of the denomination’s Illinois/Wisconsin and Michigan regional bodies. Crowder officially began his duties in December 2025 as he oversees this expansive faith network.
For many observers, the appointment carries deep weight given the demographic composition of the church body. David Cherry, President of the Leaders Network, noted that Crowder’s elevation is a powerful indicator of progress within the denomination. He remarked that he is moved to see white congregations within the Living Waters Region show such respect and support for a Black leader from the South Side. According to Cherry, this leadership transition offers a glimpse into what multiracial collaboration can look like in the American faith community as the nation navigates complex questions of diversity.
Crowder’s journey to this position is rooted in decades of ministry that blend academic rigor with local community advocacy. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Memphis Theological Seminary, an advanced degree that complements his earlier work in political science and divinity. Before his arrival in Chicago, he served congregations in Ohio and Tennessee, including a significant tenure in Nashville. Locally, his work at Park Manor has extended beyond the pulpit to encompass tangible efforts such as violence prevention and the development of affordable housing for seniors.
This transition follows a period of immense personal trial for the pastor and his family. Earlier this year, Crowder and his wife, Rev. Dr. Stephanie Buckhanon Crowder, suffered the loss of their son, Sollomon Rowland-Buckhanon Crowder, who was a student at Howard University. Supporters have described Crowder as a quiet but steady force who has managed to maintain his dedication to his pastoral duties even while navigating this profound grief. His ability to continue serving while carrying such a heavy burden has deepened the respect many local congregants hold for his leadership.
The formal installation service for Crowder is scheduled to take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The ceremony will be held at Divine Word Church in Country Club Hills. This event serves as the official beginning of his tenure in a role that spans three states. As he prepares for this next chapter, he remains focused on his stated goal of helping congregants thrive and fostering a sense of community across his broad, multi-state jurisdiction.
