The Reverend Dr. Timothy L. Dotson

 

Reverend Dr. Timothy L. Dotson is the seventh Pastor of the historic St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Gary, Indiana. A seasoned pastor, scholar, educator, and community advocate, his ministry is rooted in faithful preaching, compassionate service, and a commitment to spiritual and community transformation.

 

Guided by the principle, “Preach the Gospel always, and when necessary, use words,” Dr. Dotson brings more than two decades of pastoral leadership experience, with a heart for serving the underserved, empowering communities, and addressing the social and economic challenges facing Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland region.

 

Dr. Dotson is a two-time alumnus of Calumet College of St. Joseph, earning his undergraduate degree in 1998. He later received a Master of Arts in Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary in 2014 and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Homiletics from Chicago Theological Seminary in 2023, where he was the recipient of the G. Campbell Morgan Award for Excellence in Preaching.

 

In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Dr. Dotson serves as an Adjunct Professor of Theology in the Religious Studies Department at Calumet College of St. Joseph. In 2026, he was appointed to the College’s Board of Trustees, becoming one of the institution’s governing leaders. As a trustee, alumnus, and faculty member, he remains committed to advancing the College’s mission of academic excellence, service, and leadership development.

 

A retired Chicago Police Officer and United States Marine veteran, Dr. Dotson brings a wealth of experience in public service, leadership, and community engagement. He is also a member of the Academy of Homiletics and serves as Congress President of the Indiana Brotherhood Missionary Baptist District Association.

 

Dr. Dotson and his wife, Lady Jenise Dotson, have been married for forty years. They are the proud parents of three adult children and grandparents of five grandchildren.