Our Pastor Dr. Preston Williams II

Former Senior Pastor:

Bishop Dr. Preston Williams II

(2014 - 2024)

Bishop Dr. Preston Williams II was elected by the Gateway Church Official Board to serve as Senior Pastor July 2014 and was officially installed on October 19, 2014.

The son of a Pentecostal preacher/pastor in a small town in southeast Georgia, Bishop Williams grew up surrounded by the simple philosophies of family, community, education, and religion. These complementary perspectives served as inspiration for his unique ability to challenge, engage, and enlighten audiences with a message of personal empowerment and spiritual growth.

Bishop Williams is recognized among his peers as a thought-provoking speaker, educator, prolific author and poet. He addresses critical issues affecting every aspect of human, social, and spiritual development. Known for his engaging lectures and motivational empowerment sessions, Dr. Williams has traveled nationally, as well as, internationally for over 35 years speaking in churches, colleges, civic organizations, and businesses.

Bishop Williams' educational development included undergraduate studies at Howard University, Lee University, and graduate studies at Logos University. He holds several degrees including: B.A. in Theology, M.A. in Theological Studies, and a Ph.D. in Psychology and Christian Counseling. He is a Certified Behavioral Therapist with advance certification in Christian Counseling and Business Consulting Perspectives.

He is an Ordained Minister and a distinguished member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Dr. Williams currently serves as Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and is Senior Vice President & Trustee of Logos University, Jacksonville, Florida.

In the early 1990s, Dr. Williams was the familiar radio host of “Soul to Soul” and co-host of the Christian TV talk show “Celebrate!” in Savannah, Georgia. His charismatic personality, allows him to walk seemingly between two contradictory worlds: religious/secular, black/white, and young/old.

He and his wife Kathy are committed to the ministry of education and personal empowerment to the world. They are the proud parents of six children, Shantell, Preston III, Portia, Jarell, Sharmayne, and Zaynah.

Dr. Preston Williams II is the author of four books: By the Way (2000), Whispering Silhouette (2006), Necessary Changes (2009), The God of How (2013), and most recently God's Unreasonable Reasoning (2019) .

Senior Pastor

Bishop Dr. Preston Williams II

& First Lady Kathy Williams

Bishop & First Lady Williams 16x20 GC canvas.jpg

Sunday, April 28, 2024 Gateway Church, Ft. Lauderdale, FL. bids a Fond Farewell to their Senior Pastor, Bishop Dr. Preston Williams II & First Lady Kathy E. Williams of over 9 plus years of service (9 years in 9 minutes). This video represents his legacy at Gateway Church; a fraction of the most poignant highlights of the tenure. Dr. N.R. Hyatt and the Gateway Church Board of Trustees gave the ultimate honors at the eve of the service with moving sentiments and presentations as Bishop John Hardy prayed a blessing over us. Thank you Gateway Church! It has been our pleasure and privilege to service from 2014-2024. "Look at what the Lord has accomplished through their leadership!"

As South Florida comes alive with white lights on Palm trees, boat parades, and Christmas carols, GoodNews magazine felt it only appropriate to recognize the faith leaders who offer hope, encouragement and spiritual support to our community throughout the year.

Our Bishop, Dr. Preston Williams II – Gateway Church Ft. Lauderdale, was one of the featured leaders recognized as having a profound impact in South Florida. We are so proud of our Bishop!