Meet Senior Pastor, Dr. Christopher Dodd

Rev. Dr. Christopher Dodd is a transformational leader, pastor, and cultural influencer whose ministry is rooted in building bridges across generations, communities, and cultures. A native of Chicago’s South Side, his leadership journey was shaped by a deep faith foundation and a lifelong commitment to empowering people to live out purpose beyond the walls of the church.

Dr. Dodd earned his bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois University and both his Master of Divinity (2007) and Doctor of Ministry (2015) from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. His doctoral research in socio-economic reconciliation reflects his passion for addressing systemic challenges through faith-centered leadership, collaboration, and mission-driven action.

Before entering full-time ministry, Dr. Dodd developed proven leadership skills in the private sector, serving in executive and managerial roles with Fortune 500 companies. In 2006, he boldly transitioned from corporate success to vocational calling, embracing God’s mandate to lead with vision and impact. That same year, he founded Christ Victory Assembly Church in Lansing, Illinois, establishing a ministry grounded in discipleship, outreach, and community transformation.

In 2013, Dr. Dodd began his pastoral leadership at New Community Church, where his influence has sparked spiritual renewal, organizational growth, and expansive community engagement. Under his leadership, the church has cultivated strategic partnerships with local and regional organizations, including ACE Afterschool Program, Easter Seals, Meals on Wheels, Open Access, Premier Home Health, and Angel of God Resource Centers—demonstrating a holistic approach to ministry that addresses both spiritual and practical needs.

Connect With Dr. Christopher Dodd

At the heart of Dr. Dodd’s leadership is a deep commitment to family and generational legacy. He has been joyfully married to his college sweetheart, Schlonda Dodd, for over 27 years, and together they are raising three faith driven daughters—Kennedi, Raygan, and Madison. His devotion to family shapes his ministry philosophy, reinforcing the importance of faith formation, mentorship, and leadership development across generations.

Driven by a global and missionary mindset, Dr. Dodd champions causes that advance justice, reconciliation, and holistic development both locally and internationally. He equips believers to engage culture through service, compassion, and faith in action, creating mission pathways that resonate with emerging and established generations alike.

A gifted communicator and thought leader, Rev. Dr. Dodd is frequently invited to speak at churches, universities, and professional forums, where he challenges audiences to lead courageously, serve missionally, and influence culture with integrity and purpose. His life and ministry reflect a steadfast belief that transformational leadership—anchored in faith—has the power to renew communities, inspire global mission, and leave a lasting generational legacy.

Meet the Team

  • A woman with a short, layered hairstyle with auburn highlights. She is smiling, wearing light makeup, a light blue blazer, and gold jewelry, standing against a plain light gray background.

    Carla Griffin

    TREASURER

    Carla Griffin is a retired private sector senior vice president of finance with over 30 years of experience. Ms. Griffen previously held the position of Commercial Banking Manager for Citi Group Financial. She served at Citi for over 20 years starting out as a Personal Banker. Prior to Citi, Carla worked in the Insurance Industry for 10 years.

    Carla is actively involved in the South Holland community where she resides. She currently serves as Treasurer on the Homeowners Association Board of Directors and as Treasurer for New Community Church.

    In addition, Carla is a member of the Southland Chamber of Commerce. Carla is married to Dennis Whitelow and has one son, Damone. Carla graduated from Chicago State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/ Statistical Analysis. Carla possesses the following licenses: Series 6: Mutual Funds and Variable Annuities and Illinois Life and Health; Property and Casualty.

    Carla is now the founder and executive director of When Girls Get Together (WGGT), a mentoring organization for girls between the ages of 10 to 19. WGGT’s mission is to encourage, influence and inspire girls to grow emotionally and socially. You can find out more information about this amazing organization by visiting www.wggti.org.

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    Syndey Gadson

    BUSINESS OFFICE MANAGER

    Sydney Gadson provides essential administrative and organizational support to church leadership, ministry teams, and members. This role is vital in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, clear communication, and a welcoming experience for all who connect with New Community Church.

    As the Business Office Manager at New Community Church, Ms. Gadson provides strategic oversight and day-to-day management of the church’s administrative and financial operations. Her role ensures responsible stewardship of resources while supporting the mission and ministries of NCC through sound business practices.

    Sydney assists with overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and internal controls; managing church facilities, contracts, and vendors; and ensuring compliance with applicable policies and regulations. She works closely with church leadership to support planning, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability, while maintaining accurate records and transparent processes. Through leadership, organization, and integrity, this Sydney helps create a strong operational foundation that allows New Community Church to focus on ministry impact locally and globally.

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    Vicky Martin

    DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

    Vicky Marin serves Marketing and Public Relations Director at New Community Church and plays a vital role in sharing the story, mission, and impact of NCC with our community and the world. This role oversees branding, communication, and outreach strategies that connect people to the church and strengthen engagement across all platforms.

    Vicky is responsible for developing and managing NCC’s marketing strategy, overseeing digital and print communications, and ensuring consistent messaging across the website, social media, email, and promotional materials. She leads public relations efforts, manages media relations, and serves as a point of contact for community partners and external organizations.

    She is also tasked with promoting worship experiences, ministries, and events; supporting outreach and global mission initiatives; and collaborating with church leadership and ministry teams to tell compelling stories of life change.

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    Osmund Hooks Sr.

    DIRECTOR OF SUNDAY SCHOOL

    Osmund Hooks Sr. serves as the Director of Sunday School at New Community Church, bringing deep biblical knowledge, seasoned leadership, and a lifelong commitment to teaching God’s Word. A faithful member of NCC for three years, Osmund has dedicated over 30 years to biblical studies education and more than 20 years to ministry, equipping believers to grow in faith, understanding, and application of Scripture. He has been married to his wife, Ellisa Hooks, for 50 years, reflecting a life rooted in faith, commitment, and service.

    As Director of Sunday School, Osmund provides spiritual and instructional leadership for Christian education across all ages. He oversees curriculum development, supports and mentors teachers, and ensures that classes are biblically sound, engaging, and aligned with the mission of New Community Church. Through prayerful leadership, organization, and collaboration with church leadership, he helps cultivate an environment where learners are encouraged to grow spiritually, ask meaningful questions, and apply God’s Word to everyday life. His passion for teaching and discipleship continues to strengthen families, build believers, and deepen the church’s foundation in Scripture.