Get to Know Dr. B.J. Sands
AboutRev. Dr. Barbara Jean Sands is a devout minister, author, human rights activist and advocate for teaching the word of God and empowering His people through the word. Born and raised in Morganton, North Carolina, to biological parents, Mr. Arthrow Phifer Perkins and Mrs. Helen Corpening-Phillips and the stepdaughter of Mr. C.O. Phillips. With a heart for ministry and a passion for uplifting others, Dr. B.J. Sands has spent decades serving congregations, mentoring future leaders, and advocating for social change.
Now in a new season of life, she is embarking on a journey as an author, sharing wisdom and experiences gained through years of life, ministry, travel, and advocacy. Her faith-driven mission continues as she uses her voice to inspire, uplift, and guide others toward spiritual growth and freedom. At the age of 81 Dr. Sands was invited by Dr. Salima Marriott to become a contributing author in her book, “Bringing into Being Our Legacy”. Dr. Sands is also a contributing author of “Daily Book of Prayer 2025” by Melani Bonita Kelly. Both of these inspirational books have led Rev. Dr. Sands to create her own works of art. Now in retirement, “Power Through Prayer” was created for release in late Summer 2025. Along with “120 Experiences to Explore and Enjoy after 80” slated to be released before the end of the year, Winter 2025.
Now in a new season of life, she is embarking on a journey as an author, sharing wisdom and experiences gained through years of life, ministry, travel, and advocacy. Her faith-driven mission continues as she uses her voice to inspire, uplift, and guide others toward spiritual growth and freedom. At the age of 81 Dr. Sands was invited by Dr. Salima Marriott to become a contributing author in her book, “Bringing into Being Our Legacy”. Dr. Sands is also a contributing author of “Daily Book of Prayer 2025” by Melani Bonita Kelly. Both of these inspirational books have led Rev. Dr. Sands to create her own works of art. Now in retirement, “Power Through Prayer” was created for release in late Summer 2025. Along with “120 Experiences to Explore and Enjoy after 80” slated to be released before the end of the year, Winter 2025.
Professional Experience
Experience:Dr. Sands’ career spans decades of leadership in ministry, healthcare, education, and social justice.
Ministry:Lead Minister, Johnsville-White Rock United Methodist Church (4 years)Associate Director, United Methodist Church, Council on Ministries (7 years)Pastor, Asbury Broadneck UMC, Annapolis, MD (15 years)Pastor, Simpson-Hamline UMC, Washington, DC (4 years)Pastor, West Liberty UMC, Marriottsville, MD (15 years) Education:Dr. Sands holds degrees from:Johns Hopkins School of RadiologyHoward University (Undergraduate)Antioch-Putney UniversityHoward University School of DivinityAsbury Village United Methodist School of ChaplaincyThe Bible College of Baltimore Other Professional Roles:Patient Advocate, Anne Arundel Medical Center (8 years)Patient Advocate, Johns Hopkins Medical Center (4 years)Patient Advocate, The Children’s Hospital of Washington, DC (4 years)Associate Director, University Without Walls, Morgan State University (3 years)Adjunct Professor, Sociology Department, Morgan State University (3 years)Youth Counselor, United Planning Organization, Washington, DC (4 years) Patient Advocate, Children's Hospital, Washington DC (2 years) Associate Professor, Sociology Department, Baltimore Community College (2 years) Associate Professor, Sociology Department, Essex Community College (2 years)Beyond these roles, Dr. Sands has been a leader in international outreach, organizing group pilgrimages to the Holy Land and engaging in global missions across Africa and Australia. Her work has deepened her understanding of faith in action and strengthened her commitment to addressing the needs of marginalized communities.
25 January 2023 · 26 minRev. Douglas and Rev. Dr. Barbara Sands Join Allan Kittleman for conversation about #HoCoMD history
Positivity Podcast23 June 2022 · 1 hr 8 minTBD
YayCanDo31 January 2020 · 26 minTBD
We‘re Listening26 November 2021 · 40 minTBD
The My Future Business™