elder marlon c. bonner, jr.

Elder Marlon C. Bonner, Jr. is a native of Baltimore, MD, and a 5th-generation member of the United Holy Church of America, Inc. (UHCA). He was raised in McKinney’s Memorial Holiness Church, founded by his great-grandfather, the late Bishop Albert McKinney, Sr. At age 12, he gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Greater Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, where he actively served in the youth ministry.

Answering his call to ministry, Elder Bonner preached his initial sermon at McKinney’s Memorial in August 2016. Over the years, he has served in numerous roles at McKinney’s Memorial including Usher, Youth Department President, Media Co-chair, Church Anniversary Committee Chair, Associate Minister, and Church Administrator.

Elder Bonner earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Old Dominion University in 2021, concentrating in Public Relations, Advocacy, and Persuasion. During college, he was a watch-care member of Morning Star United Holy Church in Norfolk, VA, where he received much of his ministerial training under Bishop J.B. Felton. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity.

He received his Minister’s License in 2022 and was ordained an Elder in 2023. Elder Bonner was appointed Supply Pastor of McKinney’s Memorial Holiness Church in 2023 and was officially installed as Pastor on April 26, 2025.

He also currently serves the UHCA in various capacities: as President of the DC–Maryland Sub-District; he assists the Media Department of the Northern District; and serves as General Archivist, appointed by UHCA General President, Bishop Gregory K. Hargrave.

Known for his sense of humor and down-to-earth nature, Elder Bonner is committed to glorifying God in all he does. His personal motto is to “unapologetically praise God because we are only going higher from here!”