Serving Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries from 1997-2025
Pastor Michael L. Brown, CEO/President, Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries
Pastor Michael L. Brown is a dedicated leader, veteran, and servant of God whose life has been shaped by faith, service, and a deep commitment to community transformation.
In 1992, after more than 23 years of active duty in the U.S. Navy, Pastor Brown completed his final tour of duty aboard the U.S.S. Seattle (AOE-3) and transitioned to the Fleet Reserve. He officially retired from the Navy in December 2000. He credits his military experience with instilling in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and a desire to make a lasting impact on the world around him.
His ministry journey began in 1997 when he joined the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission as the Maintenance Minister. Over the years, he took on increasing responsibilities, serving as Men’s Ministry Director and Men’s Discipleship Program Manager. In September 2003, he stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director, a position that became permanent later that year. Today, Pastor Brown serves as the CEO/President of where he has led the organization to financial growth, program expansion, and a renewed focus on eternal impact through the practical application of biblical principles.
Beyond his work at the mission, Pastor Brown has held leadership positions at the state and national levels. He served on the Governor’s Indigent Defense Commission under Governor Rick Snyder and has played key roles in the Citygate Network (formerly the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions), including as District President, Vice President of the Great Lakes Region, and Board Member at Large. His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including:
Distinguished Veteran of the Year (2021) – Metropolitan Kalamazoo Branch of the NAACP
Honorary Doctor of Divinity (2022) – International Seminary
Distinguished Veteran of the Quarter (2022) – Kalamazoo County Veterans Committee
Vice President of the Great Lakes Region (2024) – Citygate Network (appointed to complete an open term)
The Otha Gilyard Community Service Award (2025) – Northside Ministerial Alliance of Kalamazoo
Pastor Brown is a sought-after speaker, frequently filling pulpits for churches in transition or when pastors are on sabbatical. His sermons are often followed by a heartfelt song, reflecting his passion for both preaching and worship. He is known for his bold yet compassionate leadership, drawing pastors, politicians, and community leaders to seek his wisdom and guidance. His personal mission is to “die on empty,” pouring out everything God has placed within him.
In addition to his role at Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries, Pastor Brown serves as a Family Care Pastor at Stones Church (formerly Christian Life Center) in Kalamazoo, MI. Alongside his wife, Rosemary, he ministers to and mentors engaged couples, newlyweds, and young leaders. Together, they are dedicated to filling the relational void experienced by many young people due to broken homes or absent parental relationships.Even in retirement from the military, Pastor Brown continues to honor his fellow veterans, frequently officiating memorial services in his Navy uniform upon request. In his personal time, he enjoys being on the water, spending time at the shooting range, and embracing life as a true renaissance man—one whose greatest joy is serving God and others.
