A Word from Pastor Woods
"Ministry is not about a stage — it's about a table. Everyone has a seat."
About Pastor Woods
A shepherd who knows the sheep.
Rev. Marlo Woods, M.Div., serves as Senior Pastor of Greater Mount Olive AME Church. An educated, experienced, and deeply compassionate leader, she brings depth of training and a steady, professional hand to every facet of pastoral ministry.
Pastor Woods earned her Master of Divinity and has devoted her career to proclaiming the gospel with clarity, scholarship, and care. Under her leadership, the congregation has grown in spiritual depth, community engagement, and intergenerational connection.
Her preaching joins the historic AME tradition with a contemporary voice — biblically grounded, culturally aware, and pastorally honest. She leads with the prophetic spirit of Bishop Richard Allen and the personal warmth of a shepherd who knows her sheep by name.
Beyond the pulpit, Pastor Woods serves as a Philadelphia Police Chaplain, mentors emerging leaders, and partners across the community — ensuring that Greater Mount Olive remains a hub of hope on North 50th Street.
Pastor Woods · Philadelphia Police Chaplain
Ministry Pillars
Faith. Justice. Family.
Preaching
Biblically grounded messages with cultural relevance for today's world.
Discipleship
Equipping believers to grow in their faith and walk together.
Outreach
Loving our West Philadelphia neighbors through tangible action.
Vision
A church reflecting the kingdom — diverse, joyful, and on mission.
Worship with us
this Sunday.
Meet Pastor Woods. Meet our family. Find your place at Greater Mount Olive.