The Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Shanka Morris, Sr. is an Liberian by birth and an American by naturalization; a graduate of the College of West Africa Business College (AA), Cambridge International School of Business (B.BA), Hood Theological Seminary (M.Div.) a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity Degree from Agape Bible College & Seminary; a candidate to receive a PhD in General Psychology with emphasis on Pastoral Community Counseling from NorthCentral University.

In 2001 he was appointed to the former Spencer Memorial UMC, now NorthDavidson A United Methodist Congregation as Co-Pastor until June 2003 when he was appointed as the first Black African to serve as Co-pastor and later, Senior Pastor of Spencer Memorial United Methodist Church.

Dr. Morris is the Past President of the Associate Members & Local Pastors Association of the Western North Carolina Conference, Past Treasurer of the National Fellowship of AM & LP of the UMC General Conference and a Former Executive Member of the Board of Ordained Ministry of the Western North Carolina Conference, The United Methodist Church.

He is married to Marilyn Tiah Morris, (a United Methodist Certified Lay Speaker), and proud parents of a daughter, Adelaide Morris-Sambou; three sons, Emmanuel Shanka (EJ), James Saydee, Jordan Snoklee, two grandchildren, Edwin and Asatou.

Dr. Morris’ deep passion in presenting the Gospel in a culturally relevant style without compromising its truth. He also believes that one of the keys to being an effective Church is keeping a balance between evangelism and discipleship. Despite his many ministry setbacks, God has and still using His Male Servant to accomplish much for His glory here at NorthDavidson and its surrounding Communities.