About Our Pastor

Eric A. Holder is a preacher, teacher, counselor, husband, father, mentor and friend to many. In 2004 after surrendering to God’s call, he was licensed to preach the Gospel in September 2004 and ordained in November 2007 at the Garden of Prayer Baptist Church under the anointed leadership of then Bishop Melvin B. Tuggle II. In November 2009, he accepted the office of Pastor at Grace Baptist Church, Baltimore, MD.

Pastor Holder, is a native Washingtonian who attended the University of Maryland, College Park and graduated with a Bachelor of Social Sciences degree in Criminal Justice.  He retired from the Washington DC Pre-trial Services Agency in 2015, after 27 years of service.

Under his leadership at Grace, community prayer walks have been established in conjunction with expanding the church’s evangelism efforts; reestablished Community Day partnering with two other churches in the community; implemented an annual prayer vigil which takes place at Thanksgiving Place, partnered with Baltimore City College High School where members serve as library assistants, created a praise and worship team and coordinated major renovations in construction and technology throughout the church building. In addition, Grace has experienced increased membership.

Pastor Holder is married to Rev. Toni L. Holder, and they have three children.

Pastor Holder believes he must be instant in season and out of season. One of his favorite scriptures is Psalm 34:1 – “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Rev. Holder believes that if he can help just one somebody as he travels along the way, then, his living will not be in vain.