How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” Romans (10:14-15)
About Pastor Kaleb D. Barnum
Pastor Kaleb D. Barnum was born and raised in Tampa, Florida, where his love for God, family, and community was nurtured from an early age. At just nine years old, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized under the leadership of the late Rev. G.E. Edwards. This life-changing decision laid the foundation for his future calling in ministry.
A graduate of Armwood High School (Class of 1990), Pastor Barnum continued his education at the University of South Florida and later earned a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Technology Development and Management, with a concentration in Information Security Assurance, from St. Petersburg College in 2015.
At the age of 29, Pastor Barnum accepted his call to ministry at New St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Rev. W.J. Haynes. Over the years, he faithfully served in many leadership roles, including High School Sunday School Teacher, Vacation Bible School Teacher, Youth Pastor, Outreach Ministry, and Young Adult Pastor. In 2010, he was ordained into the Gospel ministry by Rev. Alec F. Hall.
During his years at New St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Barnum faithfully served in various areas of ministry leadership. His hands-on experience in ministry allowed him to actively engage in a wide range of endeavors that prepared him to minister to the whole individual — mind, body, and soul — with compassion, wisdom, and without limitation. A heart for the lost and broken has always been at the center of his calling, shaping the way he serves God’s people.
In February 2019, Pastor Barnum was appointed interim pastor of New Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Tampa, Florida. Through faithful leadership, steadfast prayer, and a servant’s heart, he was called to serve as Senior Pastor in April 2021. As a sower goes forth to sow, Pastor Barnum carries a special anointing to minister healing, hope, and restoration to those in need — spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
In December, he furthered his preparation for ministry excellence by completing his Master of Divinity degree from Luther Rice Seminary, equipping him to continue leading with greater depth and biblical insight.
With such a great calling to fulfill, Pastor Barnum remains deeply committed to shepherding God’s people. He finds time to visit the sick, make calls to members, teach Bible Study and New Member Classes, and diligently study God’s Word to rightly divide the truth. His ministry is characterized by love, faithfulness, humility, and a relentless pursuit of God’s presence.
Pastor Barnum is blessed to be supported in ministry by his loving wife of 15 years, Dawn, and their five children: DeVaughn (Santayi), Jordan (Alexas), Jaylen, Josiah, and Kennedy. Together, they also enjoy the blessings of six beautiful grandchildren: Ezra, Malik, Hendrix, Marley, Shyloh, and Karmelo.
Pastor Barnum’s ultimate desire is to see people fully embrace God’s unconditional love, walk in the power and victory that Christ has provided, and experience the fullness of God’s promises in every area of life.