Meet Xavier Coombs | Atlanta Pastor, Public Theologian and Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Xavier Coombs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Xavier, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
I believe that this answer is different for each person and based on what you are doing. But for me I look to see if I am still being effective, if I am making any progress, are people’s lives still being changed for the positive, and if my heart is still in it. These are questions I have to ask myself to determine if it is time to stop and regroup. I started Love Fellowship Church Atlanta a few years ago, and after a while, I realized I needed to let it go and regroup. I am now pastoring a small denominational church that I know God sent me to.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I pastor and operate as a public theologian in the Atlanta area. I use social media and my online blog: LIFT Moments While On The Mend, which is with myself and Rev. Dr. Margaret L. Conley, to discuss social happenings and situations from a theological perspective. I am also in the formative stages of starting a virtual podcast that will hopefully launch by the start of the year 2025.
Covid taught me that sometimes we have to stop and readjust. We must always be willing to readjust and rebrand ourselves while keeping true to our call and mission.
So having to stop LFCA and having to accept its failure was hard. I felt embarrassed and angry. People promised to support and help and then walked away from the ministry and me and didn’t support me and the ministry at the level they promised. I was broken and it took me years to regroup but then I started pulling myself back together and we now pastor a church and we know that GOD placed us there. If it had not been for the struggle we would not be there and all of the opportunities and connections would not be happening.
My biggest lesson has been to go ahead and fuss, cry, be angry, and feel every emotion you need to, but keep going, keep pushing, and DON’T STAY STILL.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would start with a visit to Piedmont Park, where you can enjoy scenic views of the city skyline. Then to nearby, Ponce City Market for shopping and dining with a rooftop view. We must stop by The Atlanta History Center and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

I am a foodie so we are going to South City Kitchen in Midtown for a modern take on Southern classics, and to Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an iconic spot for soul food. You can’t visit Atlanta without grabbing some amazing BBQ. One of my favorites is Rodney Scott’s BBQ. Located in the West End, it’s known for its whole-hog, Carolina-style BBQ. The vinegar-based sauce gives it that perfect tangy kick. Plus, the vibe there is just super chill—perfect for kicking back and enjoying some smoky goodness.

Another must-try is Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt. It’s a bit of a hidden gem on Memorial Drive, and trust me, it’s worth seeking out. It’s got that old-school BBQ shack vibe, and the ribs here are fall-off-the-bone delicious. Daddy D’z also serves up some killer sides, like mac and cheese and collard greens. The smoky, down-home flavors make it one of those spots you’ll want to come back to.

If you’re in the mood for something different, you’ve got to hit up Mr. Everything Cafe. It’s a local favorite in the West End, known for its loaded rice dishes that come piled high with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon, plus all kinds of veggies. It’s a perfect spot if you’re looking for something hearty, fresh, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those places where you can grab a meal that feels like it’s been made with love.

I also have to stop by Canoe, I love the duck. Amazing spot. Upscale and chill on another level.

Of course, Atlanta isn’t just about the food—you’ve got to check out Lenox Mall if you’re looking to do some shopping. It’s in the Buckhead area and is the go-to spot for both luxury and high-street brands. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, the latest tech, or just a good window-shopping stroll, Lenox has it all. After a day of shopping, you can always stop at one of the mall’s restaurants or cafes for a quick bite.

We must take a stroll down Auburn Avenue, which was once the heart of Atlanta’s Black business community, famously called “Sweet Auburn.” You’ll find landmarks like the Auburn Avenue Research Library, the Apex Museum, and plenty of Black-owned shops along the way. Then to the powerful Civil Rights Museum in downtown Atlanta that ties the Civil Rights Movement to global human rights issues. The immersive exhibits, like the lunch counter sit-in experience, offer a visceral look at the fight for equality.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my family, My Parents, Sister and Niece. I also have to thank my Pastor, Rev. Dr. Maisha Handy, and RIZE Community Church. Lastly, I must thank My Friends Rev. Dr. Natasha Patterson, and Rev. Dr. Margaret L. Conley.

Instagram: lfcatl

Twitter: XJeKyleCoombs