In this compelling episode of the Local Changemakers Podcast, host Miguelito Jerome sits down with Pastor Eli Williams, a minister, author, broadcaster, and community leader in Springfield, Ohio. As the founder of Urban Light Ministries and a strong advocate for fatherhood and youth empowerment, Pastor Williams shares his incredible journey from music and radio to ministry and community service.
His mission? Strengthening families, empowering fathers, and uplifting communities through faith-driven initiatives.
From Music to Ministry: A Calling Greater Than the Stage
Pastor Eli Williams’ story is one of transformation and divine calling. Born into a large family—the seventh son and ninth child out of 13—he grew up in a faith-filled home. His parents raised him with strong Christian values, a love for people, and an unwavering faith.
However, his first love wasn’t ministry—it was music.
“After high school, instead of going to college, I hit the road performing with a Motown-esque music group. I loved the spotlight, the crowd, and the thrill of performing.”
His talents as a singer and songwriter took him far, even leading to a Motown songwriting contract after he left the group. One of his songs was recorded by Michael Jackson and featured on the “Ben” movie soundtrack album.
Yet, even as his musical career was about to take off, God had other plans.
“I was on the rise, but the Lord spoke to me. He convicted me and called me out of that life. I left the group, the music, and the dreams I had built for myself.”
This decision was life-altering. Seeking his true purpose, he explored different faith paths, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, but ultimately found his calling in Christian ministry.
In April 1985, he made a full commitment to his faith. He left his radio DJ career, refocused his life, and dedicated himself to serving God and the community.
Urban Light Ministries: A Beacon of Hope in Springfield, Ohio
In the late 1980s, Pastor Williams and his wife, a Licensed Practical Nurse, started Urban Light Ministries. What began as a small family initiative quickly grew into a full-scale nonprofit, officially incorporated in 1995.
The mission? Transforming communities through faith-based outreach, family support, and youth programs.
Key Initiatives of Urban Light Ministries:
✔ Feeding Programs – Providing meals to families in need
✔ Medical Outreach – Free healthcare services with volunteer doctors
✔ Children’s Ministry – The Sonshine Clubs, an after-school program for kids
✔ Fatherhood Programs – Empowering fathers to take active roles in their children’s lives
✔ Community Evangelism – Spreading hope through gospel outreach in high-crime areas
One of Pastor Williams’ most impactful ministries involved playing gospel music in a crime-heavy city park. The result?
“The police chief and sheriff told me the calls to that park dropped to zero after we started. The presence of the Gospel changed the entire atmosphere.”
This street-level impact became the foundation of Urban Light Ministries, proving that faith and community action could bring real change.
Fatherhood Advocacy: Building Stronger Families
Through his work with The Sonshine Clubs, Pastor Williams realized something troubling—many of the children they served came from homes without a father figure. The impact was clear:
- Higher rates of academic failure
- Increased behavioral issues
- Greater likelihood of crime and substance abuse
Understanding the profound importance of fathers, he launched a fatherhood initiative in 2009.
“Fathers play a critical role in a child’s life. Even if they aren’t married to the mother, they have a responsibility to provide, protect, and nurture their children.”
At its peak, the program served 500 fathers a year across Ohio, including in prisons and urban communities. However, COVID-19 and funding limitations led to a shift:
▶ From government-funded programs to faith-based mentorship
▶ From large-scale outreach to focused, Christ-centered fatherhood coaching
“We serve fewer fathers now, but we serve them better. The best thing we can do is lead them to the Lord.”
Fathering Strong: A Digital Movement for Dads
As part of his fatherhood advocacy, Pastor Williams launched Fathering Strong, a multimedia initiative designed to support fathers in their parenting journey.
📌 Fathering Strong Includes:
🔹 Website & Blog – Free resources, articles, and guidance for fathers
🔹 Weekly Podcast – Conversations about faith, parenting, and fatherhood challenges
🔹 YouTube Channel – Video discussions on fatherhood and faith
🔹 Mobile App – A private platform for fatherhood communities
“We’d love to see a Haitian Fathers Community on our app. Haitian men play a strong role in their families, and we want to support them too.”
The Power of Love: Biblical Fatherhood Principles
One of Pastor Williams’ greatest contributions is his book, “Father Love: The Powerful Resource Every Child Needs”. Based on 1 Corinthians 13, it teaches fathers how to love their children as God loves us.
✔ Love is Patient – Nurturing without frustration
✔ Love is Kind – Leading with compassion
✔ Love is Selfless – Putting your children’s needs first
🔹 Exciting News: “Father Love” will soon be available in Haitian Creole!
“The need for fatherhood support in the Haitian community is real. We’re committed to making our resources accessible in Haitian Creole to serve Haitian fathers better.”
Advice for Aspiring Changemakers
As someone who has dedicated over 30 years to ministry and community service, Pastor Williams offers this advice to aspiring leaders:
▶ Put God First – Seek His guidance in everything
▶ Listen Before Leading – Understand the community’s needs
▶ Stay Persistent – Challenges will come, but faith will sustain you
▶ Build Strong Families – A strong family structure leads to a strong community
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives
Pastor Williams remains deeply committed to Springfield and beyond. His upcoming projects include:
✔ Expanding Fathering Strong to serve more men
✔ Launching a Haitian Fatherhood Program
✔ Growing Urban Light Ministries’ Community Outreach
▶ Want to Get Involved? Contact Pastor Eli Williams at:
📧 EWilliams@urbanlight.org
Watch the Full Interview on YouTube
🎥 Don’t miss this powerful episode of the Local Changemakers Podcast with Pastor Eli Williams! Learn how faith, fatherhood, and community service can transform lives.
📺 Watch Now: https://youtu.be/JZnQrgXihVo
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