Meet Our Moderator
A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Reverend Paul M. Graves, Sr. was raised by his late grandmother, Josephine Graves. Under her guidance, he was nurtured in a home environment that prioritized spiritual depth and intellectual excellence. He began his faith journey at an early age when he was baptized at Rushing Spring Baptist Church.
An accomplished student-athlete during his time at Southern Normal High School, Rev. Graves went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business from Alabama A&M University. His academic years also led to his marriage to Sandra Perkins; together, they are the proud parents of four children: Paul II, Ahmad, Aisha, and Ashlee. His professional and personal journeys have afforded his family the opportunity to live and travel extensively throughout Europe and Africa.
Before entering full-time ministry, Rev. Graves enjoyed a distinguished career in the corporate sector, where he was frequently recognized for his leadership and contributions to the business community. In 1980, he joined Green Forest Community Baptist Church under the mentorship of Rev. Dr. George McCalep, and he was formally licensed to preach the gospel in 1994 at Heart of Atlanta Baptist Church.
Since his installation as Pastor of Clear Way Missionary Baptist Church on July 27, 2008, Rev. Graves has overseen significant congregational growth and the implementation of ministries dedicated to leadership development and personal spiritual maturity. His influence extends into the broader faith community through the New Hope Missionary Baptist Association, where he currently serves as Moderator.