Elder Joseph Pridgen was appointed Pastor of Sweet Rest Church in September 1996. While his tenure has been short, he has proven to be a good shepherd, one who gently leads his flock. He is a man of vision, richly blessed with God-given knowledge and wisdom, and fully committed to "making disciples." A truly gifted orator, he is one who not only teaches, but also inspires. To hear him is to hear from heaven.

Pastor Pridgen has studied at several institutions of higher learning, among them, Jackson State University, Millsaps College, Reformed Theological Seminary and Wesley Biblical Seminary. He earned a degree in Biblical Studies at Belhaven College.  He has significant involvement in religious and community affairs. Current activities include:

- Executive Director of the Ministers' and Laymen's Seminar (COCHUSA)

- Member of the National Education and Trustee Board COCHUSA)

- National Evangelist (COCHUSA)

- President of the Ministers and Deacons Institute (COCHUSA )

- President of Ministerial Alliance, Pearl, MS

- Member of Fellowship of Hope, an interdenominational alliance of
   churches in the Jackson area

- Regional Associate for Mission America

- Consultant and coach for New Church University.