Soror R. Janae Pitts-Murdock, a native of Detroit, Michigan, is a dynamic preacher, leader, and
scholar whose work bridges faith, service, and community impact. She earned a Bachelor of Arts
in Communication Studies from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, a Master of Science in
Public Policy & Management from Carnegie Mellon University, a Master of Divinity from
United Theological Seminary, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of
Memphis. She also earned a Doctor of Philosophy in African American Preaching and Sacred
Rhetoric from Christian Theological Seminary, further deepening her commitment to
transformative preaching and theological scholarship.
In November 2020, Light of the World Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) elected Pastor
Pitts-Murdock as its sixth Senior Pastor, making history as the first woman to serve in this role in
the church’s 154-year legacy. Her pastorate reflects a powerful blend of prophetic witness,
pastoral care, and visionary leadership.
A committed servant-leader, Pastor Pitts-Murdock is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta
Sorority, Inc., where she currently serves as National Chaplain. Her leadership within the
organization has also included service as Chaplain of both the Southern Region - encompassing
Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, and the Bahamas - and the Midwest Region,
which includes Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Minnesota, Kentucky, West
Virginia, and Ontario, Canada.
Her dedication to service extends into the broader community through her involvement with
several civic and service organizations. She is a member of the National Council of Negro
Women (Indianapolis Section), Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and serves on the board of the
Disciples of Christ Historical Society.
Pastor Pitts-Murdock is united in holy matrimony to her husband, Dr. Jeffrey Allen Murdock,
whom she affectionately describes as “God’s embodiment of divine love.” Together, they are the
proud parents of two sons, Jeffrey III and John Patrick.