Pastor Gerod D. Duff is a native of Memphis, Tennessee born to Mr. and Mrs. Abron Duff. Pastor Duff has a tremendous passion for God’s word coupled with a love for God’s people. He has a contagious spirit of generosity that flows through every facet of his ministry. He is a beloved and passionate pastor, servant-leader, distinguished visionary, faithful friend and a highly sought after teacher, preacher and conference leader.

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Pastor Duff surrendered his will to the Lord and accepted the call to ministry in December 1995. Under the leadership of Rev. Ulysses Ponder, Pastor of Poplar Springs Baptist Church of Ellenwood, Georgia, Pastor Duff was licensed and ordained to preach God’s Word.  Pastor Duff’s first pastorate was at Saint Simon Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA where he served for 6 years.

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In January 2004, Pastor Duff accepted the senior pastorate of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church with the primary goal of impacting the world for the Kingdom of God from Griffin, Georgia. He strives to equip the saints, evangelize the lost, and exalt the Savior.  Since his installation as Pastor, Rising Star has experienced phenomenal growth, both numerically and spiritually.  God has blessed this ministry by showing Himself mighty through the great works of Pastor Duff‘s leadership.  Under his leadership, Rising Star has become a beacon of light for the Griffin/Spalding Community. 

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Pastor Duff is an alumnus of Luther Rice University in Lithonia, Georgia holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion.  He was the recipient of the 2013 Gospel Choice Award as one of the Most Influential Pastors in the Atlanta, Georgia area.

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Since May 1, 1999, Pastor Duff has been happily married to his beautiful wife, Lawanda Duff. Their greatest desire is to see those who do not know Christ enter into a personal relationship with Him.