OUR LEADERSHIP
REV. RITNEY A. CASTINE, PASTOR
The Reverend Ritney A. Castine serves as Senior Pastor of North Stelton African Methodist Episcopal Church in Piscataway, New Jersey. A Louisiana native and lifelong member of the AME Church, he brings a passion for preaching, congregational renewal, and community service to his ministry. His work reflects a conviction that the Gospel calls people to grow in faith and put that faith into action.
Appointed to North Stelton in December 2024 by Bishop Samuel L. Green Sr., Pastor Castine has guided the congregation toward renewed purpose through North Stelton NEXT. His leadership emphasizes meaningful worship, Christian discipleship, and opportunities for members to serve. He combines pastoral care with practical organizational leadership, strengthening the church’s capacity to meet the spiritual and everyday needs of the people it serves.
First ordained in the AME Church in 2016, Rev. Castine received his first pastoral appointment in 2017 at Trinity AME Church in Gonzales, Louisiana. There, he helped revitalize a congregation once considered for closure. Under his leadership, Trinity purchased a modern facility, completed major renovations without additional debt, and developed community partnerships that expanded its resources and ministry.
In November 2021, Bishop Julius H. McAllister Sr. appointed him the twelfth pastor of Mt. Pisgah AME Church in Jersey City, New Jersey. He led the congregation’s reopening following pandemic closures and oversaw extensive improvements to the sanctuary, fellowship hall, parsonage, and technology. His tenure also included the development of a community meal program serving approximately 200 meals every other week and support for four ministers who advanced to ordination. Throughout that work, he maintained a particular concern for seniors, children, and families.
Beyond the local church, Rev. Castine has devoted nearly two decades to public health advocacy and community engagement. His professional experience includes service as Managing Director of Community and Youth Engagement at Truth Initiative, where his work supported tobacco prevention and youth activism. As founder of Imagine Greater Strategic Consulting Group, he serves as Principal and Chief Strategist, helping churches, nonprofits, and coalitions strengthen their leadership, develop effective programs, and advance their missions. In 2017, Black Enterprise recognized him among its BE Modern Man 100 Men of Distinction.
Rev. Castine holds a Master of Divinity (MDiv) and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) at Kairos University. His continuing theological education reflects his commitment to thoughtful pastoral leadership and to helping congregations respond faithfully to the needs of a changing world.
He is married to Mrs. Darsheena Castine, and they are the proud parents of their son, Amari. Grateful for God’s grace throughout his journey, Pastor Castine remains guided by Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”