Rev. David Turner
The Rev. Dr. David Turner brings over three decades of pastoral and educational experience to his partnership with churches through the Center for Healthy Churches. In addition to serving congregations in diverse settings from rural Georgia and Metro-Atlanta to Richmond, Virginia, he served as the Church Development Officer for the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, as a hospice chaplain, and as volunteer chaplain for the Chesterfield County Police Department in Virginia. His experience also includes teaching appointments as an Adjunct Instructor at Florida State University and the University of Alabama.
David’s 21.5-year tenure at Central Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, showcased his ability to guide congregations through transition, growth, conflict, and transformation. He served almost 20 years as Senior Pastor and, before that, as Associate Pastor/Interim Pastor. His educational background includes degrees from the University of Alabama, Florida State University, McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University, and Wesley Theological Seminary, providing him with both theological depth and administrative expertise.
David’s ministry is characterized by his belief in relationship-building and ecumenical partnership. He has consistently built teams and fostered connections between church leaders, civic groups, and community members, understanding that strong relationships are fundamental to a congregation’s health. His leadership extends beyond the local church, with service on the Board of Directors for Good Faith Media and the Jesus Worldview Initiative, and as a past moderator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia.
David is married to the Rev. Christy Haga Turner, a United Methodist pastor at Crozet UMC, and they have two sons. He enjoys hiking, reading, baseball, and college football, and staying informed about history and current events.
