Embracing Word Church
  • +1 (336-949-4515)
  • 1001 Mineral Springs Road Madison, NC 27025, USA
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Embracing Word Church

Our leader

Our Leaders

Bishop Terence C. Priester, II

Bishop Terence C. Priester, II is a husband, father, pastor, speaker, businessman, investor, mentor, and friend who has touched the lives of thousands through ministry and outreach.
He serves as the Establishmentarian and Senior Pastor of Embracing Word Church in Madison, NC. He is also the Diocesan of North Carolina and Treasurer General of the Ecumenical Convergence of Christian Ministries, under the leadership of Presiding Bishop H. Clemon Smith, II. Bishop Priester II also serves the International Light Fellowship as Secretary General, under his father Bishop Priester I.

Community & Leadership Service

Bishop Priester’s commitment to service extends beyond the church. He has served as Associate Supervisor of the Durham County Soil & Water Conservation District, First Vice President of Congressional District 4 of the North Carolina Democratic Party, and First Vice President of the African American Caucus of North Carolina. A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., he has spearheaded countless programs and initiatives to support underserved families in Durham and across North Carolina.
Ministry & Mission

At the core of his ministry is a sincere love for God and for people, coupled with an unyielding desire to see others succeed in life. He is known for his ability to deliver messages that transcend cultural, socioeconomic, and generational boundaries. His practical approach to the Bible has inspired many to pursue a deeper, personal relationship with God.

Education & Honors

Bishop Priester holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Phoenix. He also holds numerous certifications and credentials across ministry, business, and healthcare. Over the years, he has been recognized with honorary certificates and humanitarian awards for his service and leadership.

Family & Personal Life
A native of Philadelphia, PA, Bishop Priester later relocated with his family to Roanoke Rapids, NC, where he completed high school. He met his wife, Pastor Shakeema Priester, in her hometown of Durham, NC—a city that has since become their home. Together, they have four children: Brianna, Zion, ArriyL, and Taylor.
Closing Charge

Bishop Priester challenges believers to live by faith, be led by the Holy Spirit, and be doers of the Word—so they may experience the fullness of all that God has prepared for those who love Him.

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Our First Lady

Pastor Shakeema K. Priester is the wife of Bishop Terence C, Priester II. She serves as an Assisting Pastor. She is a dynamic leader, dedicated pastor, and visionary who lives by faith and purpose. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Social Sciences from North Carolina Central University. She is passionate about ministering to the whole person—spirit, soul, and body—and carries a unique grace in helping others walk in their God-given identity.

Gifted with discernment and prophecy, she uses her voice and influence to encourage, uplift, and guide individuals toward transformation and deeper connection with God. In every role, she embodies strength, elegance, and compassion, leaving a lasting impression of both power and humility.

Beyond her ministry, she treasures her role as a devoted mother to Brianna, Zion, Arriyl, and Taylor, who inspire her daily to lead with love, wisdom, and legacy in mind. With a heart for family and community, she continues to inspire others to pursue purpose, walk in excellence, and live with intentional faith.

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