About The Pastor
Rev. Amanda Pone
Rev. Amanda Pone was called and licensed as the first female preacher in 2001 at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Bobby McKoy, and was ordained in 2007 by Rev. Phillip Marks Sr. She has held various roles, including Associate Minister, Assistant Adult Class Sunday School teacher, Mass Choir member, third Vice President of the Missionary Department, Praise Team member, and Chairperson of the Outreach Ministry. In November 2019, Rev. Pone accepted the call to serve as interim Pastor. During her time in this role, the nation faced a Global Pandemic; however, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, PGMB Church continued to hold services every Sunday through limited in-person attendance, parking lot gatherings, Facebook Live, conference calls, and Zoom. Additionally, a first fruits prayer ministry was established to help members connect through meditation on the word of God and intercessory prayer every weekday morning. The Men’s and Women’s Ministry was renamed to My Brothers and My Sisters Keeper Ministry to strengthen the fellowship among brothers and sisters in Christ and to nurture Godly men and women.
She lives in Shannon, NC, with her husband, Tony Pone, who was her high school sweetheart. They have celebrated over 34 years of marriage and are proud parents to three children: Channing (married to Kendra), Tony Dontrell, and Tachae. Additionally, she is a delighted grandmother of eight: Quandarius, Quavon, Quinton, Carmelo, Rosa, Cai, and twins Channing and Giuliana. She cherishes her role as “MeMa,” the affectionate name her grandchildren call her.
She is currently employed at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Fayetteville NC as a Dental Assistant where she has served for over 24 years.
Rev. Pone began her early education in the Robeson County school system (St. Pauls) and later received formal training as a Dental Assistant at Fayetteville Technical Community College. She holds a strong belief in studying the word of God, embodying the principle of being a diligent worker who need not be ashamed. Additionally, she was ordained by the Union Missionary Baptist Association of North Carolina.
She has attended several seminars and leadership conferences such as The Proclaimer’s Place through Baylor University and is currently enrolled in the Christian Leaders Institute pursuing a degree in Divinity.
On November 9, 2022, Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church made a landmark choice by electing Rev. Amanda Pone as its first female pastor. During her tenure as interim pastor, she launched numerous initiatives that advanced the church’s mission. As the appointed pastor, she continues to share the power and message of God, extending her influence not just within Pleasant Grove but also throughout the wider community. Currently, she serves as the organizer for Labor of Love Region 2, an organization focused on community service. In April 2024, Pastor Pone played a key role in organizing a three-day community tent revival. She also established a 5:00 AM morning meditation and prayer line via conference call, which has been a source of inspiration for many near and far. Under her guidance, church membership has grown, and several new disciples have been baptized. Pastor Pone is deeply committed to the word of God and to serving others.
We eagerly anticipate many years of her leadership and service to the congregation at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church. The Scriptures guide us to go into the highways and hedges, urging people to come in.
Rev. Pone embraces the gospel of Jesus Christ without shame, understanding that it holds the power of God for salvation to all who believe. With humility and gratitude, she serves as a compassionate servant leader within the body of Christ, nurturing a deep love for all of God’s people. Her vision is to see individuals saved and transformed into disciples of Christ, while fostering unity within the body of Christ for the advancement of God’s kingdom.
Rev. Amanda Pone
