About the Pastor and First Lady

Elder Robert W. Whitley was born in Gloster, Mississippi.  Born and raised in the Methodist church, he joined the Church of God in Christ in 1971 under the leadership of Bishop Theodore Davis.  He acknowledged his call and was licensed to the ministry in August 1974 in Jackson, Mississippi.  He is currently serving as the North State Line District Superintendent. On May 24, 1975, he married Melody Diane Quinn in McComb, Mississippi.

Mrs. Melody D. Whitley was born in McComb, Mississippi.  She was born and raised Church of God in Christ, and  she is currently serving as the Women's Department Jurisdictional Marshall for the Greater Maryland 1st Jurisdiction. She is a first lady who never fails to offer assistance when and wherever necessary.  She is dedicated, sincere, committed, consecrated, professional, friendly, saved by grace, full of faith, and spirit filled.

In September 1986, Pastor Whitley was assigned to Aberdeen Proving Ground where he established the first Church of God in Christ in Harford County.  With the help of his wife, Missionary Melody Whitley, and the faithful members of Refuge Temple, the church purchased property at 116 Spesutia Road, Aberdeen, Maryland. Elder and Missionary Whitley have six beautiful children, two daughter-in-laws and six grandchildren who all work together with them in their ministry.  Pastor and Missionary Whitley are a loving and caring couple, working for God, their family, the church and community.  A couple with a vision to see God's house and people become richly blessed.