“Sparkman Honors Archbishop

Michael A. West"  

This Black History Month, we proudly and reverently honor Archbishop Michael A. West, a towering figure in Black faith leadership whose life and ministry reflect more than sixty years of tireless service, spiritual authority, and transformative teaching.

Archbishop Michael A. West has been preaching and teaching the gospel for over six decades. Ordained by the late Reverend Clarence H. Cobbs in Chicago, Illinois, his ministry has been marked by depth, discipline, and doctrinal clarity. From the beginning of his calling, Archbishop West has understood that preaching reaches hearts, but teaching transforms lives. His voice has shaped generations not only through sermons, but through instruction that equips believers to live, lead, and serve with understanding.

He is the founding Pastor of St. Michael’s Temple of the Expanded Mind, where for more than fifty years he has served as both shepherd and scholar. Under his leadership, the church has become a place of spiritual growth, intellectual expansion, and community empowerment. His ministry has consistently provided programs and services that address both the spiritual formation and the physical needs of the people, demonstrating a holistic approach to faith and service.

Archbishop West is widely respected as a prolific teacher of theology, doctrine, and spiritual consciousness. As President of the St. Michael’s Institute, he established a theological seminary designed to educate and equip religious workers who may not have had access to formal professional religious study. Through his instruction, mentorship, and curriculum development, countless ministers, leaders, and servants have been prepared to carry out the work of ministry with knowledge, confidence, and integrity. His commitment to education affirms his belief that the work of God must be carried out with both spiritual insight and disciplined study.

In addition to his pastoral and educational leadership, Archbishop West is the Establishmentarian, Chief Apostle, and National President of the St. Michael’s United Spiritual Churches of Christ, Inc. As Founder and Overseer of multiple organizations with more than fifty years of sustained tenure, his leadership reflects rare longevity, consistency, and vision. These institutions stand as living evidence of his ability to build, govern, and sustain ministries that endure across generations.

Beyond the pulpit and classroom, Archbishop West has served the community for more than four decades as a licensed funeral practitioner. In this sacred role, he has ministered to families during their most vulnerable moments, offering dignity, compassion, and spiritual strength in times of grief. This service further reflects his lifelong commitment to walking with people not only in worship, but in life’s most difficult transitions.

At the heart of his legacy is family. Archbishop West is a devoted husband to Elect Lady Dr. Martha B. West, and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life reflects the values he has taught for decades: faithfulness, commitment, service, and the importance of family as a cornerstone of the Black community.

For more than sixty years, Archbishop Michael A. West has answered the call to serve as preacher, teacher, builder, and steward of faith. His life’s work stands as a powerful testament to enduring Black spiritual leadership, intellectual rigor, and community devotion.



We proudly salute Archbishop Michael A. West this Black History Month for his unwavering faith, prolific teaching, visionary leadership, and lasting contribution to church, community, and history.