Founder

Bishop Derek Grier currently serves as the founding pastor of Grace Church in Dumfries, Virginia. The church began in 1998 with 12 people and under his leadership, is approaching 10,000 members with over 40 life-changing ministries, and is now extending its reach with the launch of a new satellite campus in Fredericksburg, Virginia, which hosts an 8:30 a.m. worship service every Sunday.

Millions have heard and viewed his radio and television programs in the United States and around the globe. In late 2023, he initiated Derek Grier Ministries on various social media platforms, reaching millions of viewers weekly. 

Grier was ordained a bishop in 2008 by the late Dr. Myles Munroe. He currently mentors hundreds of Christian leaders and business owners through the Reach Leadership Network (RLN). Grier served on several Board of Directors, including the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), which provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate high standards for financial accountability and transparency.

Bishop Grier’s uncompromising approach to preaching and teaching the gospel has helped him lead Grace Church in phenomenal growth. In 2025, Grace Church celebrated an incredible milestone – being named to Outreach Magazine’s “100 Fastest Growing Churches in America” list for the 5th time.

In 2011, Grier founded Virginia Christian College, a highly respected institution for Christian education. He currently assumes the role of Chancellor, with Dr. Courtney McBath serving as the President. Grier is well-published and his most recent publication, “When God Stops,” was released by Thomas Nelson Publishing in August of 2019.

Derek Grier’s most recent God-inspired initiative, National Unity Weekend, was founded to position the Christ-centered church as a pivotal force in guiding society toward racial unity. Addressing the diverse needs of American communities through both Gospel teachings and practical service, National Unity Weekend is celebrated each second weekend in the month of June. Hundreds of churches have participated, and hundreds of thousands of pounds of food and resources have been distributed to those in need.

Derek and his wife, Yeromitou, reside in northern Virginia and have two adult sons: Derek Jr., David and a daughter-in-law, Debby and a grandson, Roman.