Lady Erica Young (nee Gavins) was born in Joliet, IL. and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. She is the daughter of Minister Steve and Deaconess Zina Staples, and the second born of their seven children.

 

          At the age of 8, Lady Young was baptized in the name of Jesus at Madison Pentecostal Assembly. There she was also filled with the Holy Ghost and went on to serve diligently, under the leadership of Bishop Eugene Johnson and Executive Pastor Carolyn Johnson. As a teenager, she learned God's promises were not just for the mature in age, but also for the young. As a youth, when her pastor called on the congregation for all night prayer, building fund pledges and fasting, she participated and responded with an expectation that God would show himself to her, too. 

 

        Lady Young is passionate about her walk with the Lord and believes, whole-heartedly, in serving God’s people. This passion drove her to serve in various local positions including Sunday school teacher, youth council leader, prayer team member, altar worker, gatekeeper, culinary services member, front office manager and associate minister. As an undergraduate student, Lady Young was a faithful member of Bethlehem Temple, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, under the leadership of Bishop Jerry Baldwin and the late, Evangelist Tonya Baldwin. After graduating and returning home, she went on to serve regionally, as a youth leader, for the Minnesota, Wisconsin Dakotas District Council under the direction of Diocesan, Bishop Richard D. Howell, Jr.

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          In 2014, Lady Young relocated with her family to the Milwaukee area. Upon moving, she joined Greater Bethlehem Temple World Ministries (GBTWM) under the leadership of the late Bishop Samuel Rogers and his wife, Lady Shirley Rogers. She also served under the leadership of Interim Pastor, Bishop Charles Foye, and his wife, Lady Christine Foye.

 

          Today, Lady Young is the first lady of GBTWM, under the leadership of her husband (and Pastor), Elder Marquis Young. Together they have two amazing children, Amaya and Marquis II. Lady Erica gives God the glory for remaining, faithfully, by her side. She keeps in mind the words of Bishop Eugene Johnson, “You are called FIRST to be a saint.” She is grateful to God for those who have invested in her and have led an exemplary life of holiness and service unto God.

 

          Lady Young is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, holding a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice and Political Science. She is also a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School, holding a Juris Doctorate Degree. Her heart to serve extends to her career, having worked in State and local government agencies. Currently, she is a practicing attorney.