Stories and Purpose About Faith and Community

Thoughtful writing and messages that support deeper connection and spiritual understanding.

Man in bow tie and glasses

The Author's Early Life and Calling

Dr. Carlton “Lewis” Riley Sr. grew up in a low-income family in Jacksonville, Florida. The second youngest of twelve, his family struggled financially. The church was a vital part of his upbringing.

After graduating high school, Lewis joined the Army and served as part of Operation Just Cause, the Panamanian conflict, and earned a Combat Infantry Badge.

On a 1500-mile drive from Fort Ord, California, to Goodfellow Air Force Base, after leaving the Army, Carlton discerned God's call. Experiencing car trouble in the desert, God had his undivided attention, where he received the call of God to “feed His sheep.” That journey took him from sitting on a church pew in West Texas to teaching in a church in South Korea.

Education, Work, and Personal Life

Lewis is a professional writer at a Fortune 500 company. He has taught in various settings, from military briefings to church conferences.

He attended several universities as he traveled as a military dependent before obtaining a Bachelor of Theology. Likewise, he earned his Master's in Theology and Th. D. in Theology from Jacksonville Theological Seminary in Jacksonville, Florida.

Lewis and his wife have four amazing kids, three daughters and a son. Visit Lewis at www.drclrileysr.com. When not writing, Lewis enjoys traveling.

Group chatting outside a mosque

Written and Spoken Reflections

Engaging writings and messages that connect music, faith, and meaningful understanding in everyday life.