Reverend Carolyn Williams
Rev. Carolyn Williams is the Co-Lead for YDH's Peace on the Streets Advocacy Project.
Following is a featured Destiny Spotlight on Rev. Carolyn Williams, provided in our January 2021 newsletter.
Reverend Carolyn T. Williams who was born and raised in Texas, has called Philadelphia home for over thirty years. She is a retired Officer, and Manager for the Salvation Army Developmental Disabilities Program. As a graduate of Manna Bible Institute, Rev. Williams continues her pursuit of an advanced degree through Slidell Baptist Seminary. Rev. Williams is committed to ministry both in her personal and public life with seven years of service as a Police Chaplain with the 22nd District in Philadelphia. Her focus scripture is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path."
Despite many obstacles, she has learned to walk by faith and to move forward. Rev. Williams serves God through teaching and word ministries, with over 14 years ministering to abused and displaced women. After surviving an emotionally abusive marriage, the experience fueled her passion of working with pregnant teens and young women. As a first-time contributing author, Rev. Williams, shared her story in the book, The Marys; Amazing Women Who Answered God’s Call; Will You?, which is available through Amazon.com. She encourages every woman who struggles with challenges to read her story for strength and encouragement. Her story inspires others to listen for God’s voice in order to match His message and what He says about you to over-ride what others say about you.
Remaining open to God’s direction for her final destiny; Rev. Williams, who was not sure why, realized at an early age, she had many gifts especially the gift of helps. Growing up, she liked being around people. There were always neighborhood children at her house and people were constantly telling their stories, seeking her advice, and support. Her husband, the late Pastor Williams, said it was because she could handle any emergency and give an encouraging word.
Rev. Williams has a way with young people. A teen from her church asked her to be her Godmother. Many young people don’t want their parents’ advice, but they will seek her advice. Young people need someone to lead them and show them. Her advice to young people is, “There are consequences to everything you do. We all make mistakes. Follow your first impressions, second guesses cause doubts and suspicions. Weigh out the pros and cons. And don’t be sidetracked”. (Which is good advice for everyone at any age). Rev. Williams also advises not to make a quick decision. Sometimes you need to seek God first by praying about things. Her uncle once said, “No experience is all bad if you learn something from it”.
One of Rev. Williams’ biggest influences was her grandmother, who sternly raised 8 daughters. Her mother influenced her too. As a young girl, Rev. Williams often wondered why her mother helped people who didn’t like her and when asked why, her mother responded, “I’m not going to let anyone block my blessings or stop me from doing what God told me to do”. There were also maternal aunts and teachers who were very encouraging, took interest in her and helped along the way.
Through this glimpse into Rev. Williams’ life, we see it is wise to spend time recognizing the gifts God placed within us. And to be able to accept the people placed in our lives to encourage and walk with us through our journey. Finally, refuse to let anyone or anything keep you from following the destiny God has set before you. Follow this, and you too can be Stronger, Wiser, Better.