About Leonard

Leonard was raised in Lubbock, Texas. a product of the Lubbock I.S.D. He graduated from Estacado High School and excelled in sports. He was named FCA National Athlete of the Year in 1979. Upon graduation, Leonard played football for West Texas State (now A&M), studying business.

Long before any accolades, Leonard was already beginning his ministry for Christ. He preached his first sermon at the age of 11 at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Lorenzo, Texas. Leonard continued to preach at every opportunity.

He met Sharon Hearn and married her in 1981. Together, they became pastors of Happy Union Baptist Church in Plainview, Texas in 1985 and remained there until 2001. During that time, they had 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren.

Mentored by Bishop T.D. Jakes and other great men, Leonard has spoken all over the country, including the National Fellowship of Christian Athletes convention, ministered to Tom Landry, Grant Teaff, Roger Staubach, Jeff Seaman, and a host of other great men and women of God.

Bishop Chatham has a weekly broadcast which is available on this site and other platforms. He is also available for speaking engagements. For more information, please contact him here.