The son of Robert Louis and Angela Morton was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. Pastor Morton was educated in the public school system, ultimately graduating from Withrow International High School. He attended and graduated from Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (2002). Robert graduated from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia, where he earned a Master of Divinity with a specialty in Ethics (2011). While in Atlanta, Pastor had the awesome opportunity to study under several ministers, Rev. Dr. Henry Wise Jones, Rev. Jerry D. Black, and Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Hale.
Pastor Morton’s personal and professional interests converge on the issues of community building and the creation and engagement of religious-public partnerships. He hopes to provide a safe space for those unhoused in our community and seek educational reforms that provide free education from Pre-K – community college.
Pastor Morton is also very active in music as a vocalist. Pastor’s earliest influences are rooted in jazz and neo-soul, Donny Hathaway and Dee-Dee Bridgewater, to name a few. Pastor Morton is active in our congregation as he serves as the Minister of Music for both the Bethel Choir and the Celebration Gospel Choir of Chico, California. On September 30, 2021, Rev. Robert Morton was ordained an Elder and appointed Pastor of Bethel AME, Chico.
On July 7, 2022, Pastor Morton became the proud husband of Rachel Marie nee' Cowan, together they co-parent the CREW - Jocelyn, Jasmine, Josiah, Trentin, Karson, Gracie, Destiny, Henry, Aniyah, and Durrell (DJ). If this wasn't enough, they also have a few furry family members: Frodo, Teddy, Nova, Ella, and Papa.
Pastor’s favorite quote is - I have only but a minute, only 60 seconds in it, forced upon me, can't refuse it, didn't seek it, didn't choose it, but it's up to me to use it. I must suffer if I lose it; give account if I abuse it. Just a tiny little minute, but all of eternity is wrapped up in it - Dr. Benjamin Elijah Mayes.
