Joseph D. Carpenter
May 13, 1946-October 3, 2011
We have lost a leader.
We have lost a visionary.
We have lost a friend.
But Heaven has gained a faithful servant.
Prayers are being sent up from across the nation for the family of a great man of God.
Pastor Carpenter began his ministry in the early 60’s, teaching Sunday School and leading the Youth Ministry of Christian Temple Church in Jackson, Michigan. He was elected as Section 3 Youth Director in 1967, the same year he received his ministerial credentials. After many years of serving as the Assistant Pastor in Jackson he was called to Mount Morris to pastor.
Reverend Carpenter was the Senior Pastor of First Apostolic Church of Mount Morris from November of 1981 until May of 2011. In April of 2011 he was elected as Bishop of FAC. As pastor of First Apostolic he started daughter works in Imlay City and Kentwood, Michigan. He has served the district in numerous capacities over the past 43 years that he has held credentials with the United Pentecostal Church, International. Pastor Carpenter has ministered in several countries, including The Philippines, Ethiopia, Estonia, Italy, and has encouraged and supported congregations and missionaries around the world.
- From 1973 until 1981 he served as District Youth President
- From 1984 until 1985 he served as District Sunday School Director
- From 1985 until 1990 he served as District Home Missions Director
- From 1990 until 2000 he served as District Secretary-Treasurer
- In May of 2000 he was elected as the District Superintendent
Reverend Carpenter was a member of the General Board of the UPCI and also a board member of the United Pentecostal Foundation.
He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Victoria Carpenter; children Rev. Joseph L. (Sherrie) Carpenter of Mt. Morris and Angela (Rev. Jamison) Jones of Kentwood; grandchildren Samuel Carpenter, Joshua Carpenter and Kelsea Jones.
Visitation will be Thursday October 6, 12 – 2 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. at First Apostolic Church in Mt. Morris (11650 Church St.), and Friday October 7, 1:30 -2:30 p.m. at South Flint Tabernacle in Burton (G3450 S. Saginaw St.). Funeral services will follow visitation on Friday with Rev. J. Mark Jordan and Rev. Robert E. Henson officiating.
Those desiring may make contributions to First Apostolic Church. Your condolences may be shared with the family at swartzfuneralhomeinc.com.