Reverend Dr. Tariq Zayid Cummings is a husband, father, author, singer, songwriter, pastor, and friend dedicated to spreading the love of God through Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. Known for his ability to engage, encourage, and equip God’s people, Dr. Cummings continues to emerge as a leading voice in today’s faith community, carrying the Gospel across the United States and abroad through preaching, teaching, conferences, and digital ministry. Through both proclamation and creative expression, he inspires faith, hope, and transformation in diverse audiences.

Born in Pontiac, Michigan, Dr. Cummings recognized God’s grace at an early age. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas, a Master of Divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and a Doctor of Ministry from the same institution in 2018. In December 2025, he completed a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson University.

Dr. Cummings has been recognized for excellence in ministry and leadership, receiving the 2013 UNCF Outstanding Young Alumni Award from Philander Smith College and the 2017 Emerging Leader Award from Gammon Theological Seminary. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

He has served faithfully in pastoral leadership as Senior Pastor of Allgood Road United Methodist Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia from 2013 to 2015, and Associate Pastor of St. James United Methodist Church in Alpharetta, Georgia from 2015 to 2018. He later served as Senior Pastor of Ousley United Methodist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia from 2018 to 2022, and as Administrative Pastor at Second Ebenezer Church in Detroit, Michigan from 2022 to 2025.

In November 2025, Dr. Cummings accepted the call to serve as Senior Pastor of First Gethsemane Church in Louisville, Kentucky, where he continues to lead with a vision for transformative and community-centered ministry.

Dr. Cummings is married to Tamika Evette Cummings, his partner in life and ministry, and together they are blessed with two children.