Dr. Quentin Scott, a 2012 graduate of Palmer Seminary, is currently leading a season of profound "strategic visioning" in the heart of Baltimore. With over 24 years of ministry experience, Dr. Scott has spent his career navigating the unique rhythms of bivocational service—a journey he credits Palmer with helping him prepare for during his time as a student.
Dr. Scott has spent the majority of his ministry as a bivocational leader, a lifestyle that was forged during his seminary years. He notes that Palmer prepared him for the rigors of balancing a secular career with a sacred calling because he had to "work going to class and working" simultaneously during his studies. This early training instilled in him a practical perspective on sustainable ministry. Today, he views his secular employment as a benefit to the church, noting that his outside career provides essential health benefits that relieve the congregation of a significant financial burden.
A Leader in the City and the Church
Currently, Dr. Scott serves as the Interim Pastor at Sowebo Community Church, a 12-year-old congregation in an inner-city neighborhood that is approximately 70% Black. He stepped into this leadership role following the resignation of the previous lead pastor in December 2024.
Dr. Scott's Leadership
Under his leadership, the church is currently in a "discerning phase," which includes:
- Foundational Teaching: Dr. Scott is leading a sermon series focused on the fundamental nature of the church based on Acts 2, defining what it means for Christ to be at the center.
- Restoring Liturgical Joy: Drawing on his training, he is re-emphasizing the "Super Bowl" significance of the church calendar, specifically Palm Sunday and Resurrection Sunday, to bring deeper meaning to the congregation's worship.
- Infrastructure Building: Leveraging his extensive background, he is implementing organizational systems for new member paths and leadership structures that were previously absent.
Dr. Scott’s ministry is uniquely informed by his professional role as a Contract Officer for the Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development. This vantage point allows him to see city proposals and resources that can help a young church thrive and better serve its local context. "The church doesn't look like the community you're called to," Dr. Scott observed, noting that the congregation is primarily Caucasian despite being in a diverse neighborhood. He is currently guiding the church through a relaunch phase to ensure its mission reflects the DNA of the community it serves. As Mathew D. George, Director of Alumni Care, noted during their meeting, "Everything rises and falls with leadership, and I think you bring that". We look forward to seeing how the Lord continues to use Dr. Scott to impact the city of Baltimore.