About Founder
Pastor Tracey Parris, a native of Brooklyn, New York, is a devoted servant of God with a passion for ministry, spiritual growth, and serving those who are often marginalized and underserved. Growing up in the East Flatbush community of Brooklyn, Pastor Parris developed a deep compassion for individuals and families in both the church and the broader community.
In 2005, she relocated to Northern Virginia, where she continued to pursue her calling to kingdom building. Ordained in 2014, Pastor Parris began her ministry journey serving as an administrative assistant. This experience played a significant role in shaping her character, strengthening her leadership, and cultivating a deeper desire to study and understand the Word of God.
Pastor Parris holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies from The University of Valley Forge, with a concentration in Biblical Studies and a minor in Business Management. She is also certified in Youth Ministry and has served in a variety of ministry capacities, including Youth Minister, Youth Pastor, and Associate Minister. Her ministry experience includes preaching and teaching the Word of God, facilitating workshops, mentoring women in ministry, and developing opportunities that encourage spiritual growth and practical discipleship.
With a heart for serving individuals and communities, Pastor Parris also volunteers at the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center, where she seeks to provide encouragement, spiritual support, and hope to young people during a challenging season of their lives. This work reflects her longstanding commitment to reaching those who are often overlooked and reminding them of their value, potential, and purpose.
In 2021, Pastor Parris founded Powder & Prayer Women's Bible Study, an online ministry created to provide women with a safe and supportive environment to grow in their relationship with God, study His Word, and build meaningful relationships with one another. Through continued faith, obedience, and a growing vision for ministry, Powder & Prayer evolved into Cherith Ministries in January 2024.
Today, Pastor Parris serves as the Founder and Senior Pastor of Cherith Ministries, where she is committed to building a ministry that equips believers to grow spiritually, discover their God-given purpose, and faithfully live out their calling. Through Cherith Ministries and Powder & Prayer Women's Ministry, she continues to create spaces for discipleship, fellowship, teaching, mentorship, and service.
Pastor Parris remains committed to lifelong spiritual growth, servant leadership, and following wherever God leads. Her desire is simple: to help others encounter God, grow in His Word, and walk boldly in their God-given purpose.