Dr. Darlene L. Blakely, is the Co-Pastor of the Acts of Random Kindness Christian Center (A.R.K) located in Philadelphia, Pa.  Having served faithfully for over twenty-five years in the Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Ernest C. Morris and Mother Winifred Morris, Pastors Richard and Darlene heeded the call and on December 15, 2013 the A.R.K Christian Center held its first service.

Since its inception Pastor Dar has been instrumental in establishing various ministries including the A.R.K Praise Dance Ministry, the Geek Squad Ministry (media ministry for youth), Singles ministries, the H.U.G Ministry (Hospitality, Ushers, Greeters), The Real (quarterly women’s sessions), and the annual #BeyondBlessed Women’s Conference.  Having a passion for marriage and families, Pastor Darlene is actively involved with conducting relationship education workshops for couples and families in crisis.

Dr. Darlene earned her doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Eastern University. She holds a Master’s degree in Administration in Human Services from Chestnut Hill College and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Antioch University.  In addition, she has received numerous certificates in biblical studies, relationship education, and leading high-performance teams.

Despite her busy life, family is principal for Dr. Blakely. She and Pastor Rich are the parents of one daughter, the beautiful and gifted Minister Dionna S. Avery.

3 John 2 “Beloved I wish above things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thou soul prosperth”