reginald c. woodhouse
Conference Preacher
Senior Pastor - Rev. Dr. Reginald C. Woodhouse, a man of profound knowledge and expertise, embarked on his educational journey in the Chesapeake School System. His commitment to learning culminated in a Bachelor of Science Degree in Urban Ministry Management from Geneva College, PA. He furthered his education at Norfolk State University, obtaining a Teaching Endorsement Certification, and taught at Briarfield Elementary School in the Newport News Public School System for several years. This extensive educational journey reflects his dedication and preparation for the 'calling' upon his life in the ministry.
Realizing a need to better prepare himself for the “calling” upon his life in the ministry, he pursued and received a Master of Theology Degree from Roanoke Theological Seminary in Elizabeth City, NC. On June 1, 2008, Pastor Woodhouse received his Doctor of Ministry Degree from Providence Theological Seminary in Norfolk, VA. In May 2009, an Honorary Doctorate Degree was bestowed upon Rev. Woodhouse from Canaan Theological Seminary in Hampton, Virginia, for his exemplary leadership in the community. On May 7, 2011, the Living Epistle Bible College and Theological Seminary in Greensboro, NC, bestowed an Honorary Doctorate of Christian Education upon Rev. Woodhouse. On May 14, 2011, Reverend Woodhouse received his second Master's Degree, a Master of Divinity Degree from Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University in Richmond, VA. In June 2022, he received a Master of Theology from Roanoke Theological Seminary, Elizabeth City, NC. In May 2024, he received a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from Virginia University of Lynchburg, Lynchburg, VA.
God has been good to Pastor Woodhouse. He has blessed him to preach on 3 Continents, and in March 2012, he was selected to serve as the President of Providence Bible College & Theological Seminary in Norfolk, VA. On the First Sunday in August 1999, he was called to Pastor the First Baptist Church Jefferson Park in Newport News, Virginia, and he was officially installed on the Fifth Sunday in October 1999. Under Rev. Woodhouse’s leadership, the First Baptist Church Jefferson Park has formed many new ministries. Some are a New Members Class, A Tutorial Program, A Partnership with Kid-Tech to form a technology lab, the First Baptist Praise Dancers, the Little Angels Choir, and many other ministries.
Rev. Reginald Woodhouse is active in civic organizations and community affairs. His current and past memberships include Tidewater Peninsula Baptist Association (Past Moderator), Virginia State Baptist Convention Executive Board (Served as Treasurer), Metro Baptist Ministers Conference, International Who's Who of Technology, International Who's Who of Professionals, Urban League of Hampton Roads, Inc. (prior Board Member), former President of the Peninsula Baptist Pastor's Council, HR CAP and a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Rev. Woodhouse was elected to the Hampton City School Board in May 2015 and re-elected in May 2020.
Rev. Dr. Reginald C. Woodhouse, a man of faith and family, is the oldest of 5 children born to the late Elder Thomas R. Woodhouse and Pastor Mary L. Woodhouse. His wife, Sheila N. Smith, is one of his greatest supporters and actively participates in the ministry. Together, they are the proud parents of five children and the loving grandparents of 9 grandchildren. This strong family bond is a testament to his personal values and his deep connection to the community. The First Baptist Church Jefferson Park cherishes its Pastor and recognizes him as an anointed man of God.