Our Pastor
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt
A Visionary Leader Committed to Faith and Service
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt is a dedicated, compassionate leader with a heart for service and a vision for community restoration. Under his leadership, First Mount Calvary Baptist Church has flourished spiritually and expanded its outreach efforts. Pastor DeWitt’s passion for building the kingdom of God and fostering growth in the congregation continues to inspire and transform lives.
A Life of Faith & Service
Derrick DeWitt was born in Baltimore, Maryland. After graduating from Baltimore City College High School, he joined the U.S. Army where he served with distinction as a highly decorated combat veteran before retiring in 2001. During his military service, while stationed in Korea, he was called into ministry. Pastor DeWitt received his ministerial and missionary training at the Liberty Christian School where he was licensed to preach the Gospel in 1989 and ordained in 1991. Pastor DeWitt received his Bachelor of Divinity Degree in 1995 from Freelandia Bible College and Seminary. He received a Master of Divinity and a Master of Business Administration from Canterbury University in 1999. In March 2009, he received his Doctor of Arts Degree in Theology and Biblical Counseling from Rochester University.
In 2002, Pastor DeWitt being led by the Spirit, being guided through the study and mediation of his sword and standing on the premises of Isaiah 61:1-4, with 14 members by his side, he founded the Garment of Praise Baptist Church in Clinton, Maryland. The church held its first service on Easter Sunday.
In June 2007, Pastor DeWitt was asked to return to his native home, Baltimore to pastor First Mount Calvary Baptist Church. With much prayer, he agreed to return to this church where he spent much of his childhood with his family. In October 2007, he was officially elected as the fourth pastor of the historic First Mount Calvary Baptist Church.
His Service in Action
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt has devoted his life to serving the congregation and community. His commitment is reflected in initiatives like weekly soup kitchens, community outreach, and resource programs that address immediate needs. Through these efforts, Pastor DeWitt brings hope, demonstrates Christ’s love, and uplifts those in need, strengthening the bond within the community.
Great Leadership in Crisis
As CFO and Director of the Maryland Baptist Aged Home, Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt led with exceptional dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his guidance, the nursing home was the only one in the county to maintain zero COVID cases, a remarkable achievement highlighted in multiple news stories. His leadership during this challenging time ensured the safety and wellbeing of all residents, showcasing his unwavering commitment to care and service.
Empowering the Community
As Board Chairman of Clergy United for the Transformation of Sandtown (CUTS), Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt plays a key role in organizing initiatives like the Community Health Expo. Hosted at the church, this event brought together multiple vendors to provide essential health resources and support to the community. Pastor DeWitt’s leadership continues to uplift and empower individuals, ensuring access to valuable services for all.
Serving with the Next Generation
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt actively supports the Youth and Young Adult Ministry in their outreach efforts, including their mission to feed the homeless. During this initiative, the group provided hot soup, sandwiches, and care packages with essential items for both men and women. Pastor DeWitt’s encouragement and involvement inspire the next generation to serve others with love and compassion.
Rev. DeWitt serves as an Adjunct Professor at Anne Arundel Community College. He serves on the boards of Food and Faith at the Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of Medicine, Western District Police Council, and Reborn Holistic Ministries, and United World Missions to name a few. He is an Instructor for the United Missionary Baptist Convention’s Congress of Christian Education and an active part of the State Convention and National Baptist USA.
Pastor DeWitt possesses extraordinary compassion and vision when it comes to outreach ministry. His humanitarian efforts have made a huge impact both in Baltimore, and in Africa where he and his wife supports orphanages in Kenya and Uganda. His Church operates model food programs, and weekly soup kitchen, free summer camp for youth, weekly addiction ministry, and much more.
Reverend DeWitt continues to maintain a clear vision given by God and is determined to be a church that is a pillar in the community.
The First Family
Leading with Love and Purpose
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt is blessed to have Lady Cassandra DeWitt by his side as a loving wife and partner in ministry. Together, they are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Breona, Derrick II, Everardo, and Anointe'. Their deep faith, love for each other, and commitment to serving their community are at the heart of everything they do. With a foundation rooted in family values and compassion, they work together to make a positive difference, spreading love and kindness to all they encounter.
The First Family
Leading with Love & Purpose
Rev. Dr. Derrick DeWitt is blessed to have Lady Cassandra DeWitt by his side as a loving wife and partner in ministry. Together, they are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Breona, Derrick II, Everardo, and Anointe'. Their deep faith, love for each other, and commitment to serving their community are at the heart of everything they do. With a foundation rooted in family values and compassion, they work together to make a positive difference, spreading love and kindness to all they encounter.