Bishop Richard D. Howell, Jr.
Third-generation Apostolic visionary.
Senior Pastor. Civic leader. Husband. Father. Grandfather.
3rd Generation Apostolic Visionary
The Man.
The Pastor.
The Leader.
The Man Behind the Mission
Bishop Richard D. Howell Jr. is a third-generation Apostolic leader, Senior Pastor, civic leader, husband, father, grandfather, author, and longtime servant of the PAW Inc.
For nearly five decades, he has given his life to ministry, leadership, and community impact. His story is not one of political ambition, but of faithful service and Spirit-led calling.
A Foundation of Faith
Bishop Howell was born into a legacy of Apostolic faith. From an early age, he learned that ministry is not simply a role to hold, but a life to live. He has served in many areas of the Church and has carried a deep love for the PAW throughout his life.
Senior Pastor of Shiloh Temple International Ministries
Bishop Howell serves as Senior Pastor of Shiloh Temple International Ministries in Minneapolis, Minnesota, following in the legacy of his grandparents, Reverend Howard and Sister Mattie Smith, who founded the ministry.
Under his leadership, Shiloh Temple has grown as a spiritual home, community anchor, and model of Apostolic ministry with local impact.
The Public Servant and Community Leader
Bishop Howell’s ministry extends beyond the pulpit. He has led in moments requiring compassion, courage, and collaboration, working across faith, civic, business, and community sectors.
His leadership has been recognized through the John Lewis Justice Award, and he serves as the first African American Chair of the Minnesota Council of Churches.
Author and Teacher
Bishop Howell is the author of three books that reflect his theology of active faith:
- Faith in Action
- Possess the Kingdom
- The Eden Experience
Together, these works reflect his belief that faith must be lived, the Kingdom must be pursued, and God’s purpose must be demonstrated in everyday life.
A Leader Who Develops Leaders
As a bishop, pastor, and mentor, Bishop Howell has invested in pastors, couples, young people, and leaders across generations. He is known for listening deeply, teaching clearly, and helping others discern and walk in their calling.
Pastor Bettye Howell
Pastor Bettye Howell is Bishop Howell’s partner in life and ministry. A former banking vice president, she brings corporate experience, financial insight, spiritual wisdom, and a strong commitment to women’s leadership and development.
Through the She Leads initiative, Pastor Bettye Howell will help support pathways for women across the PAW to connect, grow, mentor, lead, and serve.
Family as First Ministry
Bishop Howell believes ministry begins at home. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he values family, consistency, faithfulness, and integrity as essential foundations for public leadership.
Not Politics. Purpose.
Bishop Howell is seeking the office of Presiding Bishop because he believes this is a Kairos moment for the PAW. He is prepared to serve, listen, build, and help lead the fellowship into a stronger future.