09/03/2026
To the Registered Voters of Bertie County, North Carolina
I am honored to announce that I am running for a **nonpartisan seat on the Bertie County Board of Education, District 3**.
For 42 years, I have been registered as an unaffiliated voter. State voting records available since November 2004 confirm that I have voted in 23 elections. When information is available, those records show that I have voted on Republican primary ballots four times and Democratic primary ballots four times. I have never allowed a political party to determine my values, my decisions, or my service.
I make decisions based on what is right, fair, and best for the people I serve. Most importantly, I seek guidance through my faith and my understanding of the Word of God. I was called to preach approximately 45 years ago, and that calling has taught me to love people, serve people, and stand for truth—even when it is not easy.
This Board of Education race is nonpartisan, and that is exactly how I will serve. I will work with Democrats, Republicans, unaffiliated voters, and every person who desires truth, fairness, respect, and better opportunities for our children. I love Bertie County, and I love its people.
I first came to Bertie County in 1985, when I began my first pastorate right here in Lewiston-Woodville, where I am today. This community has been a meaningful part of my life and ministry. Our fellowship is multicultural because we believe that every person matters and deserves love, dignity, and respect in Jesus’ name.
Since March 2025, I have served on the Bertie-Martin Regional Jail Commission. I am proud of my record and the positions I have taken on the issues before that board. I do not stay silent when important matters must be addressed. I speak my mind respectfully, stand by my convictions, and work for solutions. Even when I do not get my way on an issue, I leave the room with love and respect for everyone involved.
I am committed to making our communities safer and stronger. The tragic events of June 29 at the Bertie-Martin Regional Jail were deeply serious. Such an event could happen in any county or state, but I remain committed to helping ensure that it does not happen here again. In times of adversity, we learn who is willing to stay, work, and help make things better. I am committed to staying, serving, and working through difficult times.
If elected to the Bertie County Board of Education, I will give every breath, every bit of experience, and every ounce of know-how I have to serve our students, families, teachers, staff, and community. I will listen, learn, speak up when necessary, and make decisions based on what is best for our children and the future of Bertie County.
I respectfully ask for your support and your vote for **District 3, Bertie County Board of Education**.
Thank you, and may God bless Bertie County.
Bishop Dr. David Ray
Candidate for Bertie County Board of Education, District 3
Bishop Dr. David Ray, D. Min. (h.c.)
Growing Together Ministry Worldwide University
Growing Together Ministry Church
Lewiston Woodville, NC 27849
www.gtmwlw.org
