Bishop Mac O. Tatum

Bishop Mac Oscar Tatum, born on March 13, 1943, has dedicated more than 50 years to the ministry of the Gospel, touching lives through his leadership and unwavering faith. Growing up as the eighth of nine children, he graduated from Mount Pisgah High School in 1961 before answering the call to ministry in 1970. He began his journey at Lighthouse Church on Shelby Drive, under the mentorship of Bishop John Vann, where he served and evangelized alongside a committed group of ministers. Together, they held tent revivals across the nation, praying, preaching, and baptizing people in Jesus’ name.

In 1975, Bishop Tatum began leading Bible studies in Millington, Tennessee, eventually becoming pastor of United Lighthouse Church. As the congregation grew, he led them to a new church building on Martin Road, where they renamed it New Life Assembly, creating a lasting legacy of faith and fellowship.

In 2005, Bishop Tatum was ordained as Bishop of the South Central District, a role that expanded his ministry influence, followed by his appointment in 2016 as overseer of the South Central Women's Department of Christ (D.O.C.). Though he recently appointed a new leader for the Southern District, he continues to serve as a trusted advisor and elder within the church.

Bishop Tatum was married to the late Catherine Tatum, with whom he shared four children and eight grandchildren. He has since remarried, and he and his wife, Erma Tatum, continue their shared devotion to family, faith, and ministry.