Dr. Gregory L. Clarke, the son of the late Louis Clarke, and Eva Clarke, was born in Bessemer, Alabama. He earned a Bachelor's Degree from Birmingham Southern College, Post-graduate Study at Harvard Divinity School, Boston College, and an Honorary Doctor of Divinity from Birmingham Easonian Baptist College.

 In 1986, by Divine appointment, he became Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church, Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Clarke has proven to be, not only an anointed preacher and teacher, but a skilled administrator known for his financial knowledge, Bible centered convictions and a compassionate spirit.

His tenure at New Hope Baptist Church: The church has consistently experienced spiritual, numerical and financial growth.  On November 4, 2001, New Hope became the first Church in the Birmingham area to have one church with two locations.  Other entities in two locations are:  New Hope Daycare and Preschool, New Hope Christian School (grades 1-5) New Hope Senior Recreational Facilities.  A Credit Union and "Garden of Hope," a 62-unit Apartment Complex for Senior Citizens. The additions of these properties increased the assets of the church to over 9 million dollars, 113 employees and over 5,000 members.

Within the organizational structure of the church, he has incorporated ministries to strengthen, encourage and support the membership as well as the community: e.g., Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, Prison and Drug Rehabilitation, Youth and Recreational Ministries, Medical Clinic, M-Power Ministries, Radio, Television and Internet broadcasting.

Consequently, Dr. Clarke is much sought after to conduct seminars on topics relating to Church Growth, Developing Church Leaders and Financial Planning.  He has preached on four (4) continents, some of America's most renowned pulpits and at the National Convention, USA.

 His civic affiliations include but not limited to:  Trustee Birmingham Easonian Baptist Bible College.  Superintendent of New Hope Christian School, President of New Hope

Community Development Federal Credit Union and SWAN (South West Area Network). He has served on the Governor's Commission of National and Community Service.

Despite, numerous responsibilities and a busy schedule, Dr. Clarke devoted husband (Regina) and a father of four children.