​​Pastor Nicoris N. Black was born March 1, 1995, to the late Tina R. Black and James Vaughn, both of Tunica, Mississippi. He was lovingly raised by Annette Dawson in the rural community of Dundee, Mississippi, where his early life instilled a profound sense of faith, family values, and community responsibility. Baptized on September 5, 2004, Pastor Black embraced a life deeply rooted in spiritual devotion and dedicated service.

 

As the youngest son among his siblings, Pastor Black learned early the significance of compassion, resilience, and servant leadership. These foundational experiences deeply shaped his character, driving his passion to nurture others and cultivate spiritually vibrant communities.

 

In June 2014, Pastor Black courageously answered the divine call to preach under the mentorship of Pastor Benn Pratt at Scott’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Tunica, MS. His spiritual journey took a profound step forward when he was ordained on August 12, 2018, by the late Pastor Charlie Sykes at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Jonestown, MS—his cherished home church. He remains a devoted and active member under the current leadership of Pastor Charlie Cash Sykes.

 

At the young age of 25, Pastor Black stepped boldly into pastoral leadership amidst the unprecedented trials of the COVID-19 pandemic. His exceptional commitment to exegetical and expository preaching, bolstered by meticulous study of the original biblical languages (Greek and Hebrew), provided clear, compassionate, and steady guidance to his congregation during challenging times. Deeply inspired by Ezekiel’s vision of the watchman (Ezekiel 33:7), Pastor Black passionately advocates accountability, spiritual renewal, restoration, and revival.

 

Professionally, Pastor Black has dedicated himself to education since 2015, making a significant impact through his role as a behavioral interventionist. He attended Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, equipping himself academically and professionally to serve effectively. His career in law enforcement began in November 2016 as a dispatcher and progressed as he graduated from the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy (MLEOTA) in November 2017, becoming a certified Mississippi law enforcement officer. In recognition of his exemplary service, Pastor Black was honored as Employee of the Year at Freedom Preparatory Academy for the 2023-2024 school year.

 

In his personal life, Pastor Black finds joy in reading, traveling, singing, and empowering others through heartfelt mentorship and proactive public advocacy. His commitment to transforming lives extends well beyond the pulpit, reflecting an authentic dedication to social justice, community empowerment, and lasting change.

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Pastor Nicoris N. Black currently serves as the 9th and youngest pastor of Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church.