Pastor-Elder David Camp, Jr. was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, in a devoutly religious family. His late parents, David Camp, Sr. and Naomi Camp, instilled in him a strong foundation in the church from a young age. His father, a high-ranking military officer, raised David and his brothers with a disciplined, army-style approach, which significantly shaped his work ethic, moral character, and love for God.
In pursuit of higher education, Elder Camp was accepted into Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), a prestigious engineering school. He excelled academically, making the dean’s list, a notable achievement given the rigor of the field. During his time at RPI, he visited The Redemption Church of Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc., led by Elder John Massey, Jr., where he gained invaluable spiritual insights. On November 21, 1976, he was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the Holy Ghost, which deepened his commitment to God. With a bright future ahead and a renewed dedication to his faith, Elder Camp felt called to ministry, responding to the call inspired by the song “Leaving All to Follow Jesus.” He met his wife, Paulette, at the church, and they married in 1978. Together, they served at Redemption Church for nearly 28 years and attended its Bible Institute to enhance their understanding of God’s Word.
After many years of dedicated service, Elder Camp felt a renewed call to step out in faith. He initially believed he was meant to assist smaller churches. As he and his family held weekly prayer meetings and Bible studies in their living room, word spread about the transformative experiences taking place, attracting more participants. Eventually, the group grew too large to continue meeting at home.
Members of the Bible study group, eager for Elder Camp to become their pastor, proposed starting a church. After much prayer and consultation with established leaders in the Apostolic Faith, Elder and Sister Camp were encouraged to establish the Agape Apostolic Church of Deliverance. This church has since fulfilled the spiritual needs of many seeking guidance. Since its founding, Elder David Camp, Jr. has passionately preached the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and the preparation for His return. His Southern accent often adds a lighthearted touch to his sermons, and he humorously reminds the congregation of his roots.
The church emphasizes family unity and engages in various outreach efforts, including “The Bread of Life Community Outreach Program” (a food pantry), an Annual Community & Fellowship Fun Day, and an annual Friends & Family Community Backpack and School Supplies giveaway. To date, Agape Apostolic Church of Deliverance has distributed over 2,500 Bibles in alms bags. The church is rapidly growing, and God’s blessings are evident.
Beyond his ministry, Elder Camp is a devoted family man, married to Sister Paulette L. Camp for 41 years. Together, they have raised five children—Tanya, Shalako, Justin, Brooke, and Aaron—and are proud grandparents to 20. Their love for children has inspired their commitment to the children’s ministry, where they encourage youth to reach their full potential by recognizing their academic, spiritual, and social achievements with awards and certificates. Accomplishments in sports and education are celebrated during church services, and their children’s ministry also birthed the SPARKLES program.
Agape Sparkles Youth Program
Striving to reach my potential
Participating in planning my future
Accelerating with each step I take
Realizing I am a chosen generation
Knowing that God’s Love is real
Learning that I can be what God wants me to be
Expressing my God given talents and abilities
Standing up for what is right
After renting space from St. John’s Episcopal Church for many years, where many close friendships were formed, the church’s vision became clearer, and the need for a larger space grew. A vacant Catholic Church at 1010 Madison Ave. became available. Despite facing challenges, Elder Camp and his congregation relied on prayer and fasting. With the anointing of their Bishop, Booker T. Hayes, Jr., they felt assured that the deal was meant to be. Ultimately, God opened doors that no one could close, allowing Elder David Camp, Jr. and the Agape Church Family to secure their beautiful new church home, where they are committed to reaching the lost for Christ.
