Rising in Grace: The Journey of Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis
In the heart of Cleveland, where resilience meets faith, Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis has emerged as a beacon of hope for women, families, and individuals seeking transformation. Her journey is not just one of personal triumph, but a testimony to the power of faith, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in second chances.
From Brokenness to Breakthrough
Growing up in Cleveland, Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis never imagined that her life would be shaped by a calling greater than herself. But destiny had a way of unfolding, leading her to the ministry that would redefine her purpose. In 2006, she met Pastor Albert J. Lewis Sr. at the Church of the Lion of Judah. That moment, marked by a simple yet profound prayer, set the stage for a partnership that would not only change her life but also the lives of many in the community.
Ministering alongside her husband, she found herself drawn to the broken, the addicted, and the lost—people society often discarded. In response, she helped establish the G.R.A.C.E. (Gaining Recovery At Christ’s Expense) ministry, offering spiritual and emotional support to those battling addiction. What started as small home-based Bible studies soon became a movement of restoration, hope, and healing.
Paving the Way for Women’s Empowerment
As she grew in ministry, Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis recognized a deeper calling—to uplift and empower women. Her vision materialized through the My Sister’s Keeper Women Support Group, later known as Diamonds in the Rough. This initiative became a sanctuary for women navigating abuse, addiction, and personal struggles, offering mentorship and empowerment.
But her impact didn’t stop there. In 2019, she took her mission into schools, founding the Diamond Girls Program at Mound Elementary School. With over 30 young girls under her mentorship, she taught them the values of self-worth, resilience, and leadership.
Overcoming Adversity with Faith
Despite her many accomplishments, the road to leadership was not without challenges. The weight of ministry, personal sacrifices, and societal expectations often tested her endurance. There were moments of doubt, times when the burden of carrying others felt overwhelming. But in those moments, she leaned on her faith.
“My strength comes from God,” she shares. “Every challenge I faced only deepened my conviction that I was meant to do this work. When I see lives transformed, it reminds me why I keep going.”
Her resilience did not go unnoticed. In 2020, she and Pastor Lewis received the Drum Major for Change Award from the Cleveland Public Library—an acknowledgment of their unwavering commitment to justice and community service.
Wisdom from the Trailblazers
Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis credits much of her growth to the mentorship of powerful spiritual leaders, including her husband, Pastor Albert J. Lewis Sr., and Bishop Kelly. “Mentors shape our vision,” she says. “They remind us of our ‘why’ when the journey gets tough.”
Now, she pays it forward by mentoring young women, encouraging them to rise above their circumstances and step into leadership roles of their own.
A Message to Future Leaders
To women aspiring to make an impact, she offers this advice:
- Walk in your purpose with confidence – “God has already equipped you for the journey ahead.”
- Surround yourself with the right people – “Your circle should challenge and uplift you.”
- Never stop learning – “Growth is a continuous process—spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.”
Her vision for the future remains clear: to expand her ministries, touch more lives, and continue the mission of Fountain of Grace Ministries. “This is just the beginning,” she affirms.
Balancing Leadership and Family
Being a wife, minister, and community leader requires balance. “Prioritizing self-care and family time is non-negotiable,” she shares. “I’ve learned that you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
For her, balance means prayer, moments of rest, and cherishing quality time with her husband.
A Call to Action
To the readers, she leaves a powerful message:
“You were born with purpose. No matter what you’ve been through, your story is not over. Rise, take your place, and shine as the leader you were destined to be.”
Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis is more than a minister—she is a force of grace, a warrior for the broken, and a testament to what faith and perseverance can accomplish.
About Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis
Dr. Marnetta Bridget-Lewis is the Co-Pastor of Fountain of Grace Ministries Inc. & The Recovery Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Since 2006, she has played a vital role in outreach ministries dedicated to addiction recovery, women’s empowerment, and youth mentorship. She is the founder of Diamonds in the Rough, a support group for women, and the Diamond Girls Program, which mentors young girls in elementary school. Alongside her husband, Pastor Albert J. Lewis Sr., she has impacted countless lives through ministry, community programs, and advocacy for social change. In 2020, she was honored with the Drum Major for Change Award for her outstanding service to the community. Through her leadership, she continues to inspire women to rise in faith, strength, and purpose.