Craig A. Walder Jr.
Lead Pastor
Pastor Craig A. Walder Jr. was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. Raised in a home grounded in faith, he accepted Christ at the age of 12 at Faith Deliverance Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Pastor Norman McDuffie.
Like many young people, Craig experienced a season of drifting. However, at age 24, after navigating life’s challenges, he came to the realization that life without Christ is empty. He recommitted his life and returned to his church roots at Faith Deliverance Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Senior Pastor Terence O. Hayes, Sr. From that point forward, he devoted himself fully to serving, faithfully ministering for over 16 years in various capacities including YPWW teacher, Sunday School teacher, musician, youth minister, media volunteer, and in many behind the scenes roles that helped strengthen the ministry.
Alongside his service, Craig pursued higher education at Liberty University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Corrections and a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies with a concentration in Homiletics. Professionally, he served within Montgomery County before transitioning into the school system, where he invested in young people by helping prepare them for life beyond the classroom. These experiences further shaped his passion for mentoring, teaching, and equipping others.
Today, Pastor Craig serves in full time ministry as the Lead Pastor of The Chosen Church in Dayton, Ohio. His mission is centered on raising up disciples for Christ, with a firm belief that Kingdom work is the highest calling and that true discipleship begins with a heart of service.
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Craig finds his greatest fulfillment in his family life. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Amanda, and a committed father who leads his family with wisdom, love, and intentionality. In every role he carries, whether as a pastor, mentor, husband, or father, he remains steadfast in his commitment to live a life that reflects Christ, marked by integrity, humility, and an unwavering dedication to Kingdom purpose.
Like many young people, Craig experienced a season of drifting. However, at age 24, after navigating life’s challenges, he came to the realization that life without Christ is empty. He recommitted his life and returned to his church roots at Faith Deliverance Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Senior Pastor Terence O. Hayes, Sr. From that point forward, he devoted himself fully to serving, faithfully ministering for over 16 years in various capacities including YPWW teacher, Sunday School teacher, musician, youth minister, media volunteer, and in many behind the scenes roles that helped strengthen the ministry.
Alongside his service, Craig pursued higher education at Liberty University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Corrections and a Master’s degree in Biblical Studies with a concentration in Homiletics. Professionally, he served within Montgomery County before transitioning into the school system, where he invested in young people by helping prepare them for life beyond the classroom. These experiences further shaped his passion for mentoring, teaching, and equipping others.
Today, Pastor Craig serves in full time ministry as the Lead Pastor of The Chosen Church in Dayton, Ohio. His mission is centered on raising up disciples for Christ, with a firm belief that Kingdom work is the highest calling and that true discipleship begins with a heart of service.
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Craig finds his greatest fulfillment in his family life. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Amanda, and a committed father who leads his family with wisdom, love, and intentionality. In every role he carries, whether as a pastor, mentor, husband, or father, he remains steadfast in his commitment to live a life that reflects Christ, marked by integrity, humility, and an unwavering dedication to Kingdom purpose.