About Rev. Samuel Ernest Paul
Pastor Samuel Ernest Paul was born on July 22, 1955, in Hyderabad, A.P., India, as the eldest of
three children to Elvira and Mithra Paul. Raised in a devout Christian home, he grew up
surrounded by worship, service, and the steady influence of the local church. Even in seasons of
challenge, he experienced the Lord's faithful presence guiding and strengthening him.
From childhood, Pastor Paul carried a deep love for music. Gifted with a unique musical
anointing, he has written, composed, and recorded more than one hundred gospel albums, and
he continues to compose new songs that bless and encourage believers around the world.
On August 15, 1987, Pastor Paul responded to God's call in a life changing way. In 1988, he
founded Tabernacle of God Ministries in India and faithfully pastored the congregation until he
and his family migrated to the United States in 1997.
In 1999, he joined the Free Methodist Church and served the Indo Pak Free Methodist Church
until 2003. He was ordained as an elder on September 2, 2001. Since 2003, Pastor Paul has
continued his pastoral calling at the Free Methodist Telugu Church in Layhill, Silver Spring,
where he remains a devoted shepherd and servant of Christ.
Pastor Paul's favorite life verse is 1 Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty
hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time." This scripture shapes his ministry with
humility, zeal, and a deep desire to grow continually in the service of the Lord.
Pastor Paul's beloved wife, Ujwala, has gone home to be with the Lord. Her faith, grace, and
legacy continue to inspire the family. Their three daughters, Sharon, Shiphrah, and Shalom, are
now settled with families of their own, and Pastor Paul is blessed with wonderful grandchildren
who bring him immense joy.
Pastor Paul has been involved in planting churches and nurturing new ministries, and he loves
encouraging others to step into their calling so the Gospel can reach new communities. He also
supports mission work in India through the church's partnership named Bethlehem Ministry,
serving the rag picker communities by helping provide nutrition for children, sewing and skill
development for women, and opportunities to hear the hope of the Gospel.
Pastor Paul's purpose is to draw many to Christ and serve faithfully in God's Kingdom until the
Lord completes His work in and through him.