Pastor S. L. Fordham
If you follow the story of Pastor Shawn LaMar Fordham, you quickly realize it is not a straight line - it is a calling.
Born into a legacy of faith as the son of the late Elder Henry J. Fordham III and Sharon Elaine Wright Fordham, Pastor Fordham was shaped early by prayer, purpose, and Adventist Christian education. From Pine Forge Academy to Washington Adventist University, and later Andrews University’s Theological Seminary, his life was quietly being prepared for something greater than titles or platforms - something eternal.
Along the way, his gifts opened doors few ever walk through. He became a trusted voice in public service and politics, managing a historic mayoral campaign, advising city leadership, shaping policy, and representing the federal government on national stages like C-SPAN’s Washington Journal. Even in journalism, newspapers named him one of Philadelphia’s “Top 10 to Watch.” Television invited him to weigh in. The Boardrooms welcomed him. Influence followed him everywhere. But God was doing deeper work.
In the midst of power and policy, Pastor Fordham heard a clearer call - the call to shepherd souls. He stepped away from the spotlight of politics and into the sacred work of ministry, answering what he describes as the highest and most rewarding calling of his life.
Pastor Fordham formerly served as Pastor of the East Lansdowne Seventh-day Adventist Church and Mizpah Seventh-day Adventist Church, where faith is alive, love is intentional, and Christ is lifted high. Working hand-in-hand with fellow pastors and churches, he has helped lead many into baptism and new life in Jesus - each story a reminder that heaven still rejoices.
One moment stands above the rest. In his very first evangelistic crusade, Pastor Fordham stood not only as a preacher - but as a son. The speaker was his father, Elder Henry J. Fordham III. Together, they witnessed 18 souls baptized, a sacred passing of the torch that forever marked his ministry with humility, legacy, and grace.
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Fordham is a lifelong learner - completing his Juris Doctorate, while continuing to serve in federal leadership as a District Manager with the Social Security Administration. He is also a proud father, cheering on his son Shane Robert Braxton Fordham as he pursues his own journey at Hampton University.
Yet if you ask him what matters most, he won’t point to degrees, government, or any accolades. He will point you to Christ.
At Ebenezer, we have more than a pastor - we have a shepherd who understands the world, but preaches heaven; who has walked corridors of power, yet kneels in prayer; who believes the church is not a building, but a family called to heal, restore, and love.
Come as you are. Grow in faith. Connect with Christ.
