Jamal Bryant, a prominent American minister, has always been in the public eye due to his influential position as the senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church and his dynamic presence in social justice movements. Over the years, his personal life has also garnered significant attention, particularly his past marriage and current relationship status. Recently, the news of Jamal Bryant’s engagement has sparked curiosity among his followers and the general public.
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This article explores the details of his engagement, who he is, his early life, his professional career, and the controversies that have shaped his journey.
Table of Contents
Who is Jamal Bryant married to now?
On May 28, 2024, Jamal Bryant announced his engagement to Karri Turner, a Christian motivational speaker. This joyous news was shared during a church service and later posted on social media. Jamal expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am so grateful to God that she has consented to be my wife,” before introducing Karri on stage.
Karri Turner is known for her impactful motivational speeches, both nationally and internationally, particularly focusing on women in ministry and the marketplace. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Morris Brown College, a Master of Divinity from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, and a Doctorate in Ministry.
Who is Jamal Bryant?
Jamal Harrison Bryant is an influential American minister born on May 21, 1971, in Boston, Massachusetts. Raised in Baltimore, Maryland, he grew up in a deeply religious family, with his father being a bishop and his mother a reverend. His journey into ministry began early, preaching his first sermon at Bethel A.M.E. Church.
Bryant is not only a spiritual leader but also an author and former political candidate. He is well-known for his role as the senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, where he has served since December 2018. His dynamic leadership and advocacy for social justice have made him a prominent figure in both religious and social circles.
Early Life
Jamal Bryant’s early life was deeply rooted in faith and community service. Born to John Richard and Cecelia Bryant, he was raised in a household that valued religious teachings and social activism. His father, a bishop, and his mother, a reverend, provided a strong spiritual foundation. Jamal’s early exposure to ministry came from attending Bethel A.M.E. Church, where he preached his first sermon as a child.
This early experience set the stage for his future endeavors in ministry and advocacy. He pursued higher education at Morehouse College, earning a degree in political science and international studies, followed by a Master of Divinity from Duke University and a Doctorate of Ministry from the Graduate Theological Foundation.
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Professional Career
Jamal Bryant’s professional career is marked by his founding of the Empowerment Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baltimore, Maryland, in 2002. He served there for 18 years, building a strong congregation and community presence. In December 2018, he transitioned to New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, where he continues to lead and inspire his congregation.
Bryant’s ministry extends beyond the church, as he is also known for his political activism. He briefly ran for U.S. Congress in 2015, aiming to represent Baltimore, but suspended his campaign shortly after. His influence also spans media, with television programs and international radio broadcasts that reach a wide audience.
Did Jamal Bryant have a baby?
Yes, Jamal Bryant has children from different relationships. His first daughter, Topaz, was born in 1998 to another woman. During his marriage to Gizelle Bryant, a star of “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” the couple had three children: Grace, and twin daughters Adore and Angel.
Despite their separation in 2009 due to rumors of infidelity, Jamal and Gizelle have maintained a co-parenting relationship and even briefly rekindled their romance in 2019 before splitting for good in 2021. Jamal’s family dynamics, including his children and relationships, have often been a topic of public interest and media discussion.
Who is Jamal Bryant’s ex-wife, Gizelle?
Gizelle Bryant, Jamal’s ex-wife, is a well-known television personality, particularly recognized for her role on “The Real Housewives of Potomac.” The couple was married from 2002 to 2009 and has three children together: Grace, Adore, and Angel. Their marriage ended amidst allegations of Jamal’s infidelity, which Gizelle addressed publicly.
Despite their divorce, they have remained in contact, co-parenting their children and even appearing together on reality television. Gizelle’s supportive comment on Jamal’s engagement post, “Congratulations! Very happy for you,” highlights their amicable relationship post-divorce. Gizelle herself has continued to build her career and public persona beyond their marriage.
Controversies
Jamal Bryant’s career has not been without controversies. In 2022, he faced criticism for suggesting on Rashan Ali’s “Cool Soror” podcast that he wanted to develop a “new gospel for adults” and grow marijuana on churchland to attract younger members. This proposal was met with backlash, notably from Bishop Patrick Wooden Sr., who criticized the idea as promoting a dangerous drug.
Additionally, Bryant’s personal life, particularly his past infidelity and relationships, has often been a subject of public scrutiny. Despite these controversies, Jamal has continued to be a significant figure in ministry and social activism, addressing and navigating these challenges throughout his career.
Conclusion
Jamal Bryant’s journey, both personal and professional, has been one of significant influence and public interest. From his early life steeped in religious teachings to his dynamic role as a senior pastor and social justice advocate, Bryant has made a substantial impact.
His recent engagement to Karri Turner marks a new chapter in his life, while his past, including his marriage to Gizelle Bryant and various controversies, continues to shape his public persona. As Jamal Bryant steps into this new phase, his legacy in ministry and his contributions to social causes remain enduring. This article has provided a comprehensive look into his life, relationships, and ongoing influence.
FAQs about Jamal Bryant
- Who is Jamal Bryant currently engaged to? Jamal Bryant is currently engaged to Karri Turner, a Christian motivational speaker.
- When did Jamal Bryant announce his engagement? Jamal Bryant announced his engagement on May 28, 2024, during a church service and on social media.
- Who is Jamal Bryant’s ex-wife? Jamal Bryant’s ex-wife is Gizelle Bryant, a star on “The Real Housewives of Potomac.”
- Does Jamal Bryant have children? Yes, Jamal Bryant has children, including a daughter named Topaz from a previous relationship, and three children with Gizelle Bryant: Grace, Adore, and Angel.
- What controversies has Jamal Bryant faced? Jamal Bryant has faced controversies, including criticism for proposing to grow marijuana on church land and public scrutiny over his past infidelity and relationships.
