Bishop Jafari Hundozo Callaham

Bishop Jafari Hundozo Callaham was born on April 21, 1941, in McCormick, South Carolina. He was the son of the late Mr. John Henry Callaham and Mrs. Francis Hill.

Exhibiting exceptional academic ability, he graduated from high school at the age of sixteen. He then attended Philadelphia Bible College, where he graduated at eighteen. He continued his education at National Redemption College in Washington, D.C., completing his studies by the age of twenty-three.

After college, he ministered at Hezebar Holiness Church in Columbia, SC, and was later ordained at Way of the Cross Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. He then moved to Atlanta, GA., to help Sister Janie Cunningham establish a church. After serving as pastor of the Church of Love in the Five Points area of Columbia, SC, Bishop Callaham's ministry was put on hold when he answered the call to military service. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and later at Camp Crockett in Georgia. From there, he was deployed to Vietnam, which interrupted his pastoral duties.

Eventually, Bishop Callaham returned to Columbia, SC, where he became the Pastor of St. Paul Holiness Church in 1968. He has dedicated an impressive 64 years to his role in ministry, demonstrating unwavering commitment and passion.

His ministry has been enriched by his participation in a diverse range of gospel groups, such as The Gospel Aires, The Flying Souls, Bishop Callaham and the Pearls of Light, and The Gospel Harmonizers. Each of these experiences has uniquely enriched his work and broadened his influence in the gospel community.

On June 10, 1984, Bishop Jafari Hundozo Callaham was united in holy matrimony to Ms. Veronika Frauenschlager.

Bishop Callaham was a vibrant man with many interests. He was a successful business owner, loved fishing and singing, and was deeply committed to his family. He also served as a Prince Hall Freemason for the state of South Carolina.

On November 21, 2025, Bishop Callaham peacefully answered the Lord's call at Prisma Health Hospital in Columbia, SC. His voice will forever resonate both on Earth and in Heaven. We can only imagine the angels rejoicing and singing "Heaven Bound" in his honor.

He leaves to cherish his fond memories: his wife of forty-one years, Veronika F. Callaham; four sons, Michael Callaham (Stephanie), Mark Callaham, Malik Akbar, Fabian Callaham (Sreeleena); five daughters, Glendora Holmes, Lafayette Callaham Polite, Latonia Callaham, Samaria Hughes (Ronald), Nicole Callaham Riley (Allen sr.); one brother, Cleveland White (Minnie); grandchildren; host of nephews, nieces, cousins and other extended family and dear friends.

Bishop Callaham made a significant impact on everyone who knew him, and his memory will always be Cherished.

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