Elder Dr. Kenneth A. Duke

Elder Dr. Kenneth A. Duke serves as the Legacy Pastor of the New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church in Miami, Florida. He is a product of the historic Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, and later completed post-graduate studies at Virginia Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia.  

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Elder Dan H. and Mrs. Eunice Duke, he was raised in Indianapolis, Indiana, where his spiritual journey began early.  At just 14 years old, he was licensed to preach by the Mt. Lebanon Primitive Baptist Church, and by 16, he was ordained in Franklin, Tennessee, under the Lynn Creek Primitive Baptist Association. At age 19, he was called to pastor the Good Shepherd Primitive BaptistChurch, where he faithfully served for six and a half years. 

In 1985, Elder Duke relocated to Miami to become Pastor of New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church, where he served with distinction for decades. Under his leadership, the church established the Abundant Life Christian Learning Center, a Christian-based preschool and primary grade school committed to both academic excellence and spiritual development. He also served as President and CEO of the New Jerusalem Community Development Corporation, which has provided after-school care and summer programming for K–12 youth. 

His influence extended far beyond the pulpit. Elder Duke served on the board of Miami’s gospel radio station WMBM 1490, was past Moderator of the East Florida District Primitive Baptist Association, and rose to national prominence as the 14th President of the National Primitive Baptist Convention, U.S.A., having previously served as Vice President. 

A preacher of passion and purpose, Elder Duke’s ministry has always focused on building God’s people to reach their fullest potential in accordance with His divine plan. His powerful words and heartfelt expressions of love continue to inspire all who encounter him. 

He is the proud father of three adult children—Kenneth D., Kelon, and Aheisha—and the loving grandfather of three wonderful grandchildren.