Pastor

Reverend Racquel A. Santiago, MSOL, MDiv.

Biography

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

Reverend Racquel A. Santiago, affectionately known as Rev. Rocky, is a dedicated servant-leader, preacher, and community advocate who resides in Trenton, New Jersey. A proud member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, she was licensed to preach in June 2019, ordained as an Itinerant Deacon in 2021, and elevated to the office of Itinerant Elder in April 2024.

Rev. Santiago has faithfully served in several ministerial appointments. She began her clergy service at Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church in Trenton, New Jersey and later served as Supply Pastor at St. James A.M.E. Church in Hightstown, New Jersey from April 2024 to August 2024. She then served as Supply Pastor at Mt. Moriah A.M.E. Church in Mt. Holly, New Jersey from October 2024 to February 2025. In April 2025, she was appointed Pastor of Grace A.M.E. Church in Crosswicks, New Jersey, where she continues to serve with faith, humility, and commitment to the call of ministry.

Rev. Santiago’s ministry is marked by compassion, wisdom, and a deep commitment to prayer and pastoral care. She has a heart for empowering others—especially women—and for more than 15 years has led the “So What” Gathering, an annual event that encourages women to walk in faith, purpose, and sisterhood.

Professionally, Rev. Santiago serves as an Administrative Specialist III in the Operations Division of the Mercer County Superior Court. Her extensive background includes roles in probation services, correctional counseling, and court administration. She is known for her leadership, organizational insight, and dedication to public service.

Rev. Santiago is a lifelong learner. She holds a Master of Divinity from Payne Theological Seminary, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Cairn University, a Bachelor of Science in Bible with an emphasis on Christian Leadership from Philadelphia Biblical University (now Cairn University), and an Associate of Arts degree from Mercer County Community College. She is currently pursuing Board Certification in Chaplaincy and has completed two units of Clinical Pastoral Education. She also holds a Nonprofit Management Certification.

In addition to her pastoral and professional commitments, Rev. Santiago serves as Treasurer on the Executive Board of the National Council of Negro Women—Mercer County Section, where she has been a faithful member since 2018. She is also a per diem chaplain at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton, New Jersey, where she offers spiritual support to patients and families in crisis.

Rev. Santiago is a proud stepmother to four wonderful children: Afari, Noah, Summer, and Amara. Her life and ministry are anchored in Proverbs 3:5–6, trusting fully in God’s direction and divine purpose. With a servant’s heart and a leader’s vision, Rev. Santiago continues to uplift, guide, and serve God’s people in love and truth.