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Dr. Carleton D. Leonard
Pastor • Teacher • Evangelist • Singer
Dr. Carleton D. Leonard is a dynamic and anointed Pastor, Teacher, and Evangelist with
decades of ministry dedicated to preaching the Gospel, discipling believers, and equipping
leaders. He serves as the Senior Pastor of Next Level Church of God in Christ in Oakley,
California, and is an integral part of the NorCal Metropolitan Jurisdiction under the esteemed
leadership of First Assistant Presiding Bishop J.W. Macklin.
Dr. Leonard attended Shiloh Bible College and Charles Mason Theological Seminary, Dr.
Leonard combines scholarly insight with Holy Spirit-led preaching. He currently serves as Vice
President of the Department of Evangelism (NorCal) and as a lead instructor for its “Fill the
House” Lunch & Learn initiative. Most recently, he was appointed Vice President of the West
Coast Region for the COGIC International Department of Evangelism, where he serves as
Director of Spiritual Empowerment & Development under President Renea Winston.
Dr. Leonard’s ministry extends far beyond the pulpit. He is a celebrated gospel songwriter and
playwright with original works such as Tell Hell I’m Not Coming, What About the Voodoo You Do, and Let the Music Tell the Story. In 2015, he was recognized by Contra Costa County for his
mental health advocacy through music. He is also the visionary behind multiple impactful
teaching series including Get in the Flow, Unstoppable, Fill the House and A Lit Church, all
designed to equip the Body of Christ with tools for effective evangelism, discipleship, and
Spirit-filled worship. Married for over 38 years to his beloved wife, Evangelist Laleta M. Leonard, their Christ-centered partnership continues to impact lives across the nation. Whether teaching, singing, writing, or preaching, Dr. Leonard ministers with clarity, conviction, and compassion, always pointing people to Jesus Christ.