Suffragan Bishop Joseph C. Farmer
Suffragan Bishop Joseph C. Farmer was born in Halifax County, Virginia, on May 3, 1948, to the parents of late Deacon Benjamin Farmer Sr. and the late Sister Sue Edmonds. He attended Christ Temple Blue Rock under the leadership of his grandfather, the late Elder Earl Edmonds.
Suffragan Bishop Farmer was baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ and filled with the Holy Ghost at an early age. He accepted the call to preach the gospel at the age of 17 while still under the leadership of his grandfather, Elder Earl Edmonds.
Suffragan Bishop Farmer graduated from Mary M. Bethune High School in 1968. In 1969, he joined the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1971. After his discharge from the Navy, Suffragan Bishop Farmer relocated to Hampton, Virginia and started working for the Newport News Shipyard. After 39 1/2 years of service, he retired in February 2008.
While residing in Hampton, Suffragan Bishop Farmer joined Church of Jesus in 1972 under the leadership of the late, Dr. M. L. Ford Sr. He remained a faithful member until his resignation in May 2005. Upon his resignation in May 2005, Elder Farmer became the new pastor of White Stone Pentecostal Church. He was installed in July 2005.
Suffragan Bishop Farmer has earned many achievements and served in various capacities. He has taken courses at Thomas Nelson Community College and Norfolk State University while pursuing a Social Science Degree. In July 2003, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, through the Virginia State Council, 28th Episcopal District, ordained him an Elder by the late honorable Bishop Clarence E. Moore. In July 2007, he was consecrated as a District Elder. He became Vice Chairman in July 2010, Suffragan Bishop July 2011, and Chairman in July 2018.
Lady Sarah Jane Farmer
Sister Sarah J. (Blackwell) Farmer, was born in Iredell County, North Carolina on October 9, 1949, to the late Mr. Lumbe and Mrs. Beulah Mae Blackwell. Sister Sarah was baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ, and received the Holy Spirit at an early age. She became a member of Greater New Mt. Olive Church, Statesville, North Carolina under the leadership of the late Pastor Ora Schofield. Sister Farmer had always been an active member of her local house of worship . Beginning her devotion to Christ over 47 years ago Sister Farmer, was committed to give her all. She sang with the original New Mount Olive Trio as they ministered from house to house sharing God’s word with the homebound and senior missionaries. Sister Farmer attended Unity School where she graduated with honors. After high school Sister Farmer was employed by Uniglass Fiberglass Company until her marriage to Joseph C. Farmer, in January 15, 1971.
During their early years Sister Farmer was by her husband’s side through many transitions. She was a faithful member of Church of Jesus in Hampton, Virginia, under the leadership of the late Dr. Merlin L. Ford Sir. After his death, Sister Farmer remained a dedicated worker in all areas of the church under the leadership of Pastor Clarence Johnson. In 2004, the Lord revealed His plans for Elder Farmer to go to a “land where I will show you.” Where they have now pastored for 15 years. Sister Farmer does missionary work with the Domestic Women’s Shelter, is the president of the Missionary Auxiliary, a member of the Praise Team, Celestial and Missionary Choir where she ensures that the music rendered helps to usher in the Spirit of God. For the past 36 years, Sister Farmer, has attended the International Convention of the PAW. Sister Farmer has also participated in many workshop, seminars, and other functions related to the IMCWA for the past 14 years.
Suffragan Bishop Joseph Farmer and Lady Sarah Farmer celebrates 49 years of marriage and they are the proud parents of two children, Carson and LaTanya and the proud grandparents of Kayla and Khalil.
