Bishop R. Joseph Cooks

Bishop R. Joseph Cooks

Founder & Sr. Pastor

Bishop R. Joseph Cooks is the founder and humble shepherd of the Evangelistic Restoration Church, Houston, Texas. The Evangelistic Restoration Church was founded in June 1997, beginning with 72 members, under the guidance of GOD to "reach and restore" the love and joy of the Lord to the world by enriching lives by the Word of God thru the Power of GOD, and for the glory of GOD. Bishop Cooks is a native of Houston; TX. He is the husband of lovely, Laura Cooks of 33 years. They have 3 sons, Ronald, Jarred, & Josiah.

Bishop Cooks received the call of God to preach the Gospel at the age of 14. He has been preaching now for 40 years and shepherding the flock of GOD for 25 years. R. Joseph Cooks was ordained on March 29, 1987. He accepted the appointment to Pastor the Greater Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in the Southeast Houston Area in 1987. He served faithfully in the labor of leadership as Senior Pastor of Gr. Mt. Carmel MBC for ten years. 

Pastor Cooks constantly moves in the timing of GOD in transition, he became a member of The Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. Being appointed in 2002 as Overseer of the Houston District for 8 years in FGBCF, once again transition moved him into "New Territory." Overseer Cooks resigned from FGBCF in September 2010 and officially united with The Kingdom Apostolic Fellowship International in November 2010, serving under the leadership of Bishop Cedric D. Kenebrew. R. Joseph Cooks was consecrated as Bishop of The Lord’s Church on August 4, 2011.

Bishop Cooks is leading the Evangelistic Restoration Church to exemplify the “Heartbeat of GOD” thru serving families in the Southeast Area of Houston, and surrounding counties. He has a heartfelt personal ministry of mentoring  entitled “Heroes in the House” for winning the men of the neighbourhood and those coming out of prison, restoring their hopes to be productive, stable and progressive citizens for the  growth of The Kingdom and the betterment of society. Bishop Cooks believes that GOD’S original purpose for our lives, for being in ministry is for us to be a benefit to others.