Rev. Dr. Christal L. Bell is a proud second-generation ordained elder in the A.M.E. denomination following in the footsteps of her parents and mentors, Rev. Larry J. Bell and Rev. DaNita M. Ward Bell.

 

She is a graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC). Rev. Christal was active in the WSIU newsroom while studying at SIUC. With aspirations of becoming a prime time reporter, Rev. Christal was awarded an internship position with NBC Studios: Entertainment and Publicity Department; in Burbank, California It was during this time in her undergraduate studies where she experienced the Call of God for her to become His prime time reporter; she graciously obeyed.

 

She went on to finish her Bachelor of Arts in Radio/Television from SIUC. Upon graduation she entered seminary at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, where she earned her Master of Divinity in 2007. In the fall of 2022, Rev. Dr. Christal earned Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Care and Counseling.

 

She has previously served as the Senior Pastor of Wesley AME Church in Edwardsville, IL. In 2011, she was awarded the “Key to the City” for Edwardsville, Illinois for her work in bridging the church and community.

 

Rev. Dr. Christal has served on the staff of St. James AME Church in Chicago, Illinois, and various UMC congregations of the United Methodist Church and their regional campuses as Children/Youth Pastor.

 

She currently serves as the Fourth Episcopal District Christian Education Director of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. She also is a Pediatric Chaplain at the Advocate Children's Hospital in the Chicagoland area. 

 

Rev. Dr. Christal is a published author. Her passion for youth and missions has led her to lead domestic and international mission projects for youth and adults for the past ten years.

 

In 2019, her passion led her to establish UPlifted LLC. This organization provides consultations for mission/service projects, youth ministry programs, and Christian Education strategies and best practices.

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She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

 

Her life verse is “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength