Apostolic Bible Study Church

Meet The Pastor

Suffragan Bishop Arthur H. Coleman, Sr.

Suffragan Bishop Arthur H. Coleman, Sr. was born on August 23, 1953 in Johnson City, Tennessee to the late Mother Emily Coleman.

Under the guidance and witness of his mother, Bishop Coleman, while in college, sought to surrender his life to Christ. He was baptized in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and in May 1973, the Lord filled him with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in other tongues. Under Bishop Redd, his pastor in Tennessee, Bishop Coleman grew in the grace and admonition of Jesus Christ. In addition, his heart opened to God's Word and a sincere desire to teach. This was the beginning of an remarkable passion for Sunday School. In addition to teaching, Bishop Coleman played the drums for his church as well. As the Lord led Bishop Redd, Bishop Coleman was used in various capacities to contribute to building the Kingdom of God.

In September 1976, Bishop Coleman's job moved him to Baltimore, Maryland. Here he joined the Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Church under the leadership of the then Elder James Nelson, Sr. There he was elevated to the position of Deacon and later Elder. Bishop Coleman was also the Sunday School Superintendent until the Lord called him to pastor. Also at Bethlehem Temple, Bishop Coleman met his wife Vanessa. From this union came Veronica (deceased), Jewel, Crystal, Emerald and Arthur Jr.

On the last Sunday of November 1987, Bishop Coleman and his family were sent to the Apostolic Bible Study Church (ABSC) to assist in continuing the work of the Lord. In the months that followed, Bishop Coleman and family remained true to ABSC and the two faithful remaining members. In July 1988, Bishop Coleman was installed as pastor of ABSC.

Under Bishop Coleman's leadership, many improvements were made to the church. Some examples are central air conditioning, new flooring, a new roof, and the purchase of three vans. Also, an Educational Wing was added in June 1997 to the church via the purchase of an existing building next to the church.

On February 25, 2000, the Lord blessed Bishop Coleman and the ABSC Church family to move into a new edifice at 2504-08 Garrison Boulevard. On Saturday, August 5, 2000, the church was dedicated for God's use and purpose. This magnificent move of God proves, as one remains faithful; he will indeed shower down blessings upon his people.


Since ABSC moved to its present location, the Lord has continued to smile on this great ministry. There have been numerous baptisms, several infillings of the Holy Ghost, and many families have been added.

In 2001, District Elder Coleman, recognized for his commitment and dedication to God's work, was elevated to Suffragan Bishop by Diocesan Bishop Charles Johnson. Suffragan Bishop Coleman continues to strive to maintain and uphold the standard of Holiness. The Apostolic Bible Study Church family gives thanks to God for having this caring and devoted man of God as our spiritual leader

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

Jeremiah 3:15