Archbishop Alfred A. Owens Jr.is a native Washingtonian and an outcome of the D.C. Public School System. After graduating from Cardozo High School, he continued his education at Miner’s D.C. Teachers College where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in English. In 1985, he satisfied the course requirements for a Master of Arts degree in English from Howard University, and he also received his Master of Divinity degree and Doctor of Ministry Degree from Howard University School of Divinity. Currently, Bishop Owens serves as the Senior Pastor of Greater Mount Calvary Holy Church (GMCHC) that he founded in 1966. Throughout his life, Bishop Owens has played a major role in changing lives of people in the community. His belief is that the “ministry” or “services” of the church must stretch and reach individuals beyond the walls of the church sanctuary.

As a result of this belief, Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church has remained on the cutting edge of providing services within the community. In 1984, under the pastorate of Bishop Owens, Calvary’s Alternative to Alcohol and Drug Abuse (CATAADA HOUSE), a drug/alcohol abuse program, was established. GMCHC has received federal funding for CATAADA House and its HIV/AIDS Ministries. Calvary Christian Academy, which educates children from infancy to the eighth grade, opened its doors in 1991. The church also operates both a food and clothing bank.

In addition, Calvary operates: employment services, a prison ministry, and several other outreach and social services ministries. In 2000, in order to adapt to the changing needs of the community and to expand services, the Family Life Community Center celebrated and held its grand opening to introduce additional services to the public.