About Our First Lady

First Lady Raenette G. Riddick

Lady Raenette Gatling Riddick is a gifted Psalmist and dynamic Speaker, widely recognized for her powerful ministry in both word and song. Her journey in music began at just five years old during a National Convocation, where the presiding Bishop requested she sing a solo. Though small in stature and needing to stand on a chair to be seen, her voice rang out with such power and anointing that it was evident God's presence was upon her. From that moment, she has been faithfully singing and praising God ever since.

Evangelist Riddick has served the Church of God in Christ International with distinction across local, state, and national levels. For over 30 years, she was a dedicated member of Jackson Memorial COGIC International under the leadership of her father, the late Bishop Richard G. Gatling Sr. She later served for 14 years at Lifeline Ministries COGIC International, led by her brother, Bishop Dwain V. Gatling, where she held multiple leadership roles including Church Administrator, Director of Christian Education, and Minister of Music.

In 2006, Evangelist Riddick made history as the first woman appointed as National Minister of Music for the Church of God in Christ International—a position she held with excellence for 18 years until her resignation in 2024. That same year, she again broke new ground, being appointed on August 10, 2024, as the first female President of the National Evangelism Department. From 2021 to 2024, she also served faithfully as District Missionary for the Central Connecticut Jurisdiction under Bishop Wilbert and State Mother Helen Chapman.

In June 2025, Evangelist Riddick and her husband established Rooftop Ministries Inc., COGIC International, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Together, Pastor and Lady Riddick are committed to expanding the Kingdom of God—one soul at a time.

That same year, she launched RaeVision Coaching and Consulting, LLC, offering professional coaching and consulting services to churches, nonprofits, and individuals seeking purpose-driven guidance.

Academically, Evangelist Riddick holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Springfield College and a Doctorate of Sacred Music from New Life Theological Seminary.

Professionally, she has dedicated 25 years of service to the State of Connecticut Department of Children and Families, where she currently serves as a Community Trainer at the Academy for Workforce Development. She is also a licensed clinician with CT Kids Matter in Cheshire.

Evangelist Riddick has been happily married to Pastor Stephen Riddick for 21 years. They are the proud parents of their daughter, Rae’Anna Riddick. She is also the devoted daughter of the late Bishop Richard G. and Lady Dolores Gatling.

Above all, Evangelist Riddick is a woman of unwavering faith who loves the Lord with all her heart. Her life is anchored in her favorite scripture:
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” — Jeremiah 29:11


Raenette is known for her compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others. She actively participates in community programs and initiatives, always seeking ways to uplift and empower those in need. Her warm and welcoming demeanor makes her a beloved figure within the church and the broader community.

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