Bishop courtney mcbath biography

By Steven G. Vegh

The Virginian-Pilot

NORFOLK

At 8:15 a.m. on a Sunday, Bishop B. Courtney McBath surveys his sermon notes, sipping raspberry tea from a china cup in his office at Calvary Revival Church.

In the hallway, a muscled bodyguard stands watch.

McBath chats with aides. His personal stylist helps him slip on a well-tailored suit jacket.

Bookshelf photos show him, about 5 feet 6 inches and trim, with national figures including leadership guru John Maxwell and Bill Hybels of Willow Creek megachurch fame.

After five minutes of prayer, he’s ready.

“OK,” he says to his entourage, “this is going to have to be the Lord today, because I am tired.”

A moment later, he’s striding into the whirlwind of Calvary’s 3,500-seat sanctuary, where exultant congregants are singing, “I’m still standing by the grace of God!” Lyrics flash on twin overhead screens, and a bass-heavy “praise” band booms.

On the wide sta