The Pastor of Cedar Landing Missionary Baptist Church,   Reverend Shelton Ray Barnes, is clearly a man who has been touched by God. He has led the church spiritually as under shepherd for 32 years and has proven that he is a man who practices the principles and commands revealed in the Bible. Called by God to the ministry and then to be a pastor, Reverend Barnes has influenced the lives of many in the church and community.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Reverend Barnes was called to ministry while serving his country. In September 1983, he began his service and preaching the Word of God. His pastoral experience includes: Assistant Pastor, Open Door Baptist Church (1983-84); Assistant Pastor, 1300 Gospel Service, Bent waters AFB, England (1984-86); Assistant pastor, Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church (1986-87). In 1986, Reverend Barnes was asked to become pastor of Cedar Landing Missionary Baptist Church. Under his leadership, the church has been greatly blessed. Pastor Barnes is known for his teachings on the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Attend any Sunday and you will hear him enlighten the congregation about God’s mercy and saving grace. He shows us, through examination of the scriptures, that salvation is God’s plan and is available to each of us that accept Jesus as our Savior.

Pastor Barnes is a native of Goldsboro, NC where he attended the public schools.  He is a graduate of East Carolina University, Greenville NC, with majors in history and psychology. He continued his studies at Boston University, Syracuse University, and Shaw University Divinity School.

Pastor Barnes is married to the former Mary Todd of Lewiston, North Carolina. They are the parents of two daughters Jessica and Melanie and one adorable granddaughter, Chloe’.