Bishop Dr. Raymond L. Berger Sr., born on December 28, 1941, in Baltimore, Maryland, is a notable religious leader and the founder of the VBI School of Theology. Raised under the guidance of Bishop Randolph A. Carr, he began his spiritual journey early, serving as a Sunday School teacher at age 11. Though initially aspiring to be an attorney, his path led him to a life of ministry. After graduating from Northside High School in Virginia in 1960, he attended Brooklyn College and later the Manhattan Bible Institute.
In 2010, Bishop Berger established the Victorious Bible Institute, a significant educational platform for theological studies. His pastoral career began in 1974 in Waterbury, CT, where he served for 48 years, eventually becoming Pastor Emeritus. He was elevated to Bishop in 1996 and founded the Victorious Apostolic Churches in 2004. Known as "The Hood Bishop," he is a mentor and advisor to pastors nationwide and was actively involved with the Concerned Black Clergy.
Bishop Berger is married to Evangelist Tanzella Calloway Berger and has a large family, including four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His life motto reflects his dedication: “A church in the heart of the city with the people of the city in its heart.”