Pastor's Biography

Elder Cannie M. Lester

Pastor of Church of God by Faith
Hawkinsville, Ga

Early Beginnings

Pastor Lester was born in Elko, Georgia on May 16, 1946 to his father, Lura Lester, and his mother, Lillian Lester. He is the fifth of nine children.

Education

Pastor Lester attended public school in Perry, Georgia. He also joined the United States Army in 1967. After serving his country, he moved to Delray Beach, Florida where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. He worked faithfully in his church and was side by side with his pastor as he has always had a burning desire for souls to be saved. He currently serves as the Home Mission President and on the Governing Board for the Central Georgia District Churches of God by Faith, INC.

Family

Pastor Lester is happily married to his one and only wife, Patricia Lester. He affectionately calls her “Honey.” September 14th of each year is an anniversary of love for the Lesters. From their holy union, they have been blessed to have two God-fearing and saved sons, Cannie Lester, Jr. and Timothy Van Lester. Two beautiful daughters-in- law and nine precious grandchildren. Pastor Lester and his wife are passionate about spending time with their family and instilling Godly principles into the lives of their children.

Ordained To Minister

Pastor Lester continuously drove from Florida to Georgia (500 miles one way) in an effort to share the news of Jesus Christ with his family and friends. In the fear and admonition of the Lord, he accepted his call into the ministry in 1972. After serving as a faithful minister in the Churches of God by Faith, he became an ordained Elder. Many people are saved and living for Jesus Christ as a result of Pastor Lester’s obedience in teaching God’s word in season and out of season. He is a very humble man who enjoys teaching the word of God. He is not bound to the four walls of the church. He oversees tent worship services, yard services, hospital missions, in home prayer services, and soul saving revivals. Pastor Lester is known for his unwavering faith in God’s word, his love for souls to be saved, and his wisdom to lead God’s people to the promised land. There are many faithful sayings that he lives by, but one worth noting is…….

“God said it. I believe it, and that settles it!”
“And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15