Meet the Senior Pastor

A man standing behind a clear lectern with a cross symbol, holding an open Bible, dressed in a black suit and tie, in a church or religious setting.

  • The Reverend Dr. Damone Paul Johnson is the Senior Pastor of the Metropolitan New Testament Mission Baptist Church of Albany, New York. Since he began his pastoral ministry in 2003, the church body has increased spiritually and numerically. Under his leadership, the church has grown in ministry and mission. Dr. Johnson led the ministry through the completion of a new edifice that facilitates the ministry needs of this growing and thriving congregation and the beloved community. In September 2022, a mortgage burning service was held to celebrate the retirement of a 25-year multi-million dollar mortgage 15 years ahead of time. 

    Dr. Johnson earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religion and Philosophy with a minor in Music from Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, and a Master of Divinity degree from Colgate- Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York. In May 2007, Dr. Johnson was conferred the Doctor of Ministry degree with a concentration in Pastoral Preaching from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. He received the distinguished Dr. H. Beecher Hicks Jr. preaching award, demonstrating strong promise in preaching and pastoral ministry. 

    Dr. Johnson is the President of the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention Congress of Christian Education, an auxiliary of the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention of New York, Inc.

    He is the author of A Life Worth Rebuilding, Bonded Love: How God’s Love Shines Through Imperfect Relationships and Love Unlimited. Being dedicated to the work of community, he is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Beta Phi Lambda Chapter. Dr. Johnson consistently serves as a guest lecturer at the University at Albany and has previously served as an adjunct professor for Martin University of Indianapolis, IN. Committed to family, he is married to the love of his life, Angela Johnson.

    His life verse is Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

DPJ Ministries
People standing in line during a formal event, with some holding papers, in a room with a large screen and people presenting at a podium.

Ministries

  • Our Worship and Arts Ministries serve to set an atmosphere of worship in all of our corporate gatherings as a family of faith

    • Metropolitan Mass Choir

    • Metro Stars & Drake Chorus (Ages: 4-17)

    • Dance and Mime Ministry

    • Praise Team

  • Youth (0-17) and Young Adult (18-35) Ministries aim to reach every youth and young adult, everywhere, relating to them where they are, showing them God’s love, and impacting them for the better! We do this through REACH.

    • Youth Church

    • 2nd and 4th Sundays

    • 11:30AM

  • The Men’s Movement at Metropolitan is to designed to enlist and coordinate the manpower of the local congregation, cultivate the Christian life of laymen through study, worship, fellowship, and service, enlist un-churched men for fellowship, and inspire men to support the total program of the Church in the local congregation and the community.

  • Our Women's Ministries are designed for the purpose of encouraging each other with love, and building relationships with each other. We inspire to glorify God through prayer, biblical study and ministry missions and other social events. We also endeavor to equip and encourage women to evangelize the surrounding communities to bring new Christians to the saving knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

  • Our Caring & Support Ministries nurture the spiritual, emotional, and practical well-being of our church family and community. From strengthening marriages and promoting health to extending mission work and educational support.

    • Marriage Ministry

    • Health & Wellness Ministry

    • Edna L. Hamilton Missions Ministry

    • Progressive 500

  • Our Service & Operations Ministries form the dedicated framework that upholds the worship, fellowship, and daily life of our church.

    • Host & Hostess Ministry

    • Viola Bonds Ushers Ministry

    • Security Ministry

    Our Technology Ministries bridge media and ministry, utilizing the power and efficiency of Information Technology throughout the church to enhance the winning of souls and development of Christian disciples.

    • Technology & Audio/Visual Ministry

  • Our Education Ministries are committed to nurturing a deep and growing understanding of God's Word across all ages and stages of faith. Through structured study, engaging dialogue, and foundational support, we equip the church family to root their identity in Christ and boldly apply biblical truth in their homes, careers, and community.

    • Christian Education

    • Clovis A. Drake Scholarship Ministry

Staff & Leadership

  • A man in a black suit and patterned black and gold tie standing behind a clear pulpit with a cross and crown symbol in a church setting, with steps and decorative plants in the background.

    Rev. Dr. Damone Paul Johnson

    Senior Pastor

  • Professional woman with shoulder-length black hair wearing a black blazer, white shirt, and black tie, smiling in front of a plain gray background.

    Ms. Brittany Peoples

    Director of Operations

    Contact
  • Headshot of an older man with glasses, a bald head, gray goatee, wearing a black suit, white shirt, and black tie, smiling slightly against a gray background.

    Rev. George Gomes Sr.

    Minister of Life Stages

  • Mid-age woman with short, curly black hair, smiling, wearing a black blouse, pearl earrings, and a necklace, against a light gray background.

    Rev. Catherine Ashe

    Director of Ministries

  • A man in a black suit with a white shirt and black tie, smiling against a plain gray background.

    Deacon Don Applyrs

    Director of Communications

  • A woman with curly black hair, wearing a black blouse, gold hoop earrings, and gold necklaces, standing against a plain gray background.

    Ms. Moet Slaughter

    Christian Education Director

  • A middle-aged man with curly hair, wearing glasses, a black dress shirt, and a black tie with a silver tie bar, standing against a gray background.

    Min. Raymond Bowman

    Minister of Visitation

  • Close-up view of textured black or dark blue fabric showing fine woven pattern with soft light highlighting the surface

    Deacon Isaac Cancer

    Director of Facilities & Security

  • A man with short hair, glasses, wearing a dark green blazer and black turtleneck, looking at the camera with a confident expression, against a plain light gray background.

    Mr. Dwane Grant

    Director of Music

  • Portrait of a young man with short hair wearing a black turtleneck, standing against a plain light gray background.

    Mr. Mahlee Woods

    Assistant Director of Music

  • A woman wearing glasses, earrings, a necklace, and a black top, smiling and standing against a plain gray background.

    Deaconess in Training, Arianna Bullock

    Administrative Assistant to the Senior Pastor

  • A smiling older woman with gray, shoulder-length hair, wearing a black blazer, a black turtleneck, and a silver chain necklace, posing against a plain gray background.

    Deaconess in Training, Carlise Lovelady

    Office Manager

A church building with a large cross on the front, surrounded by a lawn with small bushes, a sidewalk, and a leafless tree in front. The sky is partly cloudy.

Our Church Covenant

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Saviour and on the profession of our Faith, having been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, we do now, in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.

We engage, therefore, by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love, to strive for the advancement of this Church, in knowledge, holiness, and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, disciplines, and doctrines.

To contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the gospel through all nations.

We also engage to maintain family and secret devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred and acquaintances.

To walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the kingdom of our Saviour.

We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy in speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Saviour to secure it without delay.

We moreover engage that when we remove from this place, we will as soon as possible unite with some other church where we can carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s Word.

Humbly confessing our past sins, we pray for grace and strength to keep these, our Holy vows, for the sake of Jesus Christ our lord.

Amen.


Articles of Faith

  • We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired, and is a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction; that it has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth without any mixture of error for its matter; that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us, and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions shall be tried.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that there is one, and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness, and worthy of all possible honor confidence and love; that in the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that Man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker; but by voluntary transgressions fell from that holy and happy state; in consequence of which all man kind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, positively inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse.

  • We believe that the Scriptures teach that the salvation of sinners is wholly of grace; through the mediatorial offices of the Son of God; who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon him our nature, yet without sin; honored the divine law by his personal obedience, and by his death made a full atonement for our sins; that having risen from the dead, he is now enthroned in heaven; and uniting in his wonderful person the tenderest sympathies with divine perfections, he is in every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all-sufficient Savior.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that the great Gospel blessing which Christ secures to such as believe in him is justification; that justification includes the pardon of sin, and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood; by virtue of which faith his perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us of God; that it brings us into a state of most blessed peace and favor with God, and secures every other blessing needful for time and eternity.

  • We believe that the Scriptures teach that the blessings of salvation are made free to all by the Gospel; that it is the immediate duty of all to accept them by cordial, penitent and obedient faith; and that nothing prevents the salvation of the greatest sinner on earth, but his own determined depravity and voluntary rejection of the Gospel; which rejection involves him in an aggravated condemnation.

  • We believe that the Scriptures teach that in order to be saved, sinners must be regenerated, or born again; that regeneration consists in giving a holy disposition to the mind that it is effected in a manner above our comprehension by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth, so as to secure our voluntary obedience to the Gospel; and that its proper evidence appears in the holy fruits of repentance and faith, and newness of life.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that repentance and faith are sacred duties, and also inseparable graces, wrought in our souls by the regenerating Spirit of God; whereby being deeply convinced of our guilt, danger and helplessness and of the way of salvation by Christ, we turn to God with unfeigned contrition, confession, and supplication for mercy; at the same time heartily receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our prophet, priest and king, and relying on him alone as the only and all-sufficient Savior.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that election is the eternal purpose of God, according to which he graciously regenerates, sanctifies and saves sinners; that being perfectly consistent with the free agency of man, it comprehends all the means in connection with the end; that it is a most glorious display of God’s sovereign goodness, being infinitely free, wise, holy and unchangeable; that it utterly excludes boasting and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, trust in God, and active imitation of his free mercy; that it encourages the use of means in the highest degree; that it may be ascertained by its effects in all who truly believe the Gospel; that it is the foundation of Christian assurance; and that to ascertain it with regard to ourselves demands and deserves the utmost diligence.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that Sanctification is the process by which, according to the will of God, we are made partakers of his holiness; that it is a progressive work; that it is begun in regeneration; and that it is carried on in the hearts of believers by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, the Sealer and Comforter, in the continual use of the appointed means especially the word of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and prayer.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that such only are real believers as endure to the end; that their persevering attachment to Christ is the grand mark which distinguishes them from superficial professors; that a special Providence watches over their welfare; and they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that the Law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of his moral government; that it is holy, just and good; and that the inability which the Scriptures ascribe to fallen men to fulfill its precepts, arise entirely from their love of sin; to deliver them from which, and to restore them through a Mediator to unfeigned obedience to the holy Law, is one great end of the Gospel, and of the Means of Grace connected with the establishment of the visible church.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that a visible church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by his laws; and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word; that its only scriptural officers are Bishops or Pastors, and Deacons whose Qualifications, claims and duties are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a believer, into the name of the Father, and Son, and Holy Ghost; to show forth in a solemn and beautiful emblem, our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, with its effect, in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life; that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation; and to the Lord’s Supper, in which the members of the church, by the sacred use of bread and wine, are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn selfexamination.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that the first day of the week is the Lord’s Day, or Christian Sabbath, and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes, by abstaining from all secular labor and sinful recreations, by the devout observance of all the means of grace, both private and public, and by preparation for that rest that remaineth for the people of God.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interest and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the only Lord of the conscience, and the Prince of the Kings of the earth.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that there is a radical and essential difference between the righteous and the wicked; that such only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in his esteem; while all such as continue in impenitence and unbelief are in his sight wicked, and under the curse; and this distinction holds among men both in and after death.

  • We believe the Scriptures teach that the end of the world is approaching; that at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven, and raise the dead from the grave for final retribution; that a solemn separation will then take place; that the wicked will be adjudged to endless punishment, and the righteous to endless joy; and that this judgment will fix forever the final state of men in heaven or hell, on principles of righteousness.

Our Church History

“Upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — St. Matthew 16:18

A Legacy of Faith and Service

Metropolitan New Testament Mission Baptist Church was founded on July 1, 1943, by Reverend Dr. John B. Holmes and eight faithful believers. The Charter members were Rev. Eula M. Holmes, wife of the Pastor; Sister Zola B. Holmes, daughter of the Pastor; Sister Zora B. Williams, Bro. Samuel May, Bro. Clarence White, Sister Alberta White, Sister Pauline Lucas McDonald, and Sister Martha White.

Beginning at 170 South Pearl Street, and later moving to 140 Second Street, this small congregation grew through prayer, stewardship, and unwavering faith in God.

After Dr. Holmes’ passing in 1970, the church continued to move forward under Reverend Rexford P. Charlow (1971–1974) and later Reverend Dr. Earnest E. Drake, who became the third Pastor in 1975. Under Dr. Drake’s leadership, the church was formally incorporated, expanded its ministries, and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1978. On November 4, 1979, the congregation joyfully marched into its new home at 105 Second Street, giving glory to God for His faithfulness.

The 1980s and 1990s marked an era of community outreach and growth. Metropolitan launched the Drakeland Day Care Center, serving working families, and developed Idlewild Terrace, a senior housing complex — the first minority-owned HUD project of its kind since 1978. Later, the church completed Drake Manor, a 20-unit housing development that continues to bless the community.

In 1992, the church celebrated its Mortgage Burning Ceremony, signifying freedom from debt and God’s abundant provision. After 26 years of devoted leadership, Dr. Drake retired in 2001 and was named Pastor Emeritus before being called home to glory in 2002.

A New Era of Growth

On January 31, 2003, Metropolitan extended the call to Reverend Dr. Damone Paul Johnson, a visionary and dynamic man of God who became the church’s fourth Pastor. Since his installation, Pastor Johnson has brought renewed energy, vision, and spiritual growth to the Metropolitan family.

Under his leadership, the church has experienced significant membership growth and launched numerous ministries. In 2007, Pastor Johnson led the congregation in launching Vision 65, a capital stewardship campaign for a new church edifice. In 2022, Metropolitan celebrated a Mortgage Burning Ceremony to retire the mortgage on the new edifice, 15 years ahead of schedule..

Through every season, Metropolitan has remained steadfast in faith — reaching upward to God, inward in spiritual growth, and outward in love and service to the community. We continue to stand as “The Light on the Hill,” committed to doing God’s work with a spirit of excellence and love.