about soul x science

our mission

The Soul x Science Network exists to equip pastors and church leaders with both the spiritual depth and strategic clarity needed to build healthy, scalable ministries.

We provide community, coaching, strategy—anchored in biblical conviction and strengthened by proven systems—so leaders can shepherd with wisdom, lead with excellence, and grow churches that last.

we equip pastors with the
wisdom and systems to build
healthy, lasting churches.

our story

In 2007, what began as Sons of Thunder—a small but powerful gathering of pastors—was more than just a conference. It was the spark of a movement. Dr. R.A. Vernon, moved by a burden to see pastors strengthened and not isolated, opened his life to leaders who needed more than inspiration. They needed community. They needed clarity. They needed connection.

Over the years, that spark grew into what is now known as The Shepherd’s Connection—a global network of pastors and spouses who trust Dr. Vernon’s voice, his vision, and his example. What started in a single room has evolved into a community of over 500 pastors and leaders being equipped, resourced, and coached through every season of ministry.

Alongside him, Dr. Victory Vernon—affectionately known as Lady V–has walked faithfully with pastors’ wives and women in ministry. With wisdom, grace, and transparency, she has become a sister and mentor to countless women who needed both a safe space and a strong example. Together, the Vernons embody the very soul and science they teach: building strong churches starts with building strong leaders and strong marriages.

For almost 30 years, they have poured their lives into leaders—helping them not only grow churches but also sustain marriages, protect their integrity, and lead with both soul and strategy. Their commitment is simple yet profound: no pastor should have to do this alone.

Today, The Shepherd’s Connection continues to carry that same DNA—an authentic community for pastors, a strategic community for leaders, and a lifeline for churches that believe their best days are ahead. Because Dr. Vernon has always believed: if you strengthen the shepherd, you strengthen the whole flock.

And now—you get to be part of this tribe.

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Our Founders

Pastor R.A. Vernon, D. Min.

Dr. R.A. Vernon is a pastor, author, and leader to leaders with more than 25 years of ministry experience. As founder and senior pastor of The Word Church in Cleveland, Ohio—one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the country—he has built a reputation for combining biblical conviction with practical leadership strategies that help churches thrive.

Known affectionately as “Pastor’s Pastor,” Dr. Vernon has spiritually covered and coached hundreds of pastors across the nation through The Shepherds Connection. His voice carries weight not only because of the size of his ministry but also because of the health of his leadership, the strength of his marriage to Dr. Victory Vernon, and his commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.

The Soul x Science Network, Dr. Vernon extends his life’s work: multiplying impact by equipping pastors with both the soul care they need to endure and the strategic tools they need to build churches that last.

Follow Dr. Vernon on Instagram →

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A man and a woman on stage during a performance or event, with a microphone in the man's hand. The background shows large text reading 'GOT' and '202'. Other women are seen standing in the background.
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Victory Vernon, D. Min.

Dr. Victory Vernon is the perfect picture of Soul x Science—where the heart of loving people meets the skill of leading organizations. As co-founder of The Word Church, she’s known for being both a sharp, savvy businesswoman and the warm embrace everyone needs.

She leads with wisdom in every space she touches—from shaping Women’s Ministry and mentoring the next generation, to co-founding The Vernon Family Foundation and R.A. Vernon Ministries. She’s also the author of I Am Victory and a trusted voice for pastor’s wives nationwide who look to her for guidance on balancing ministry, leadership, and family.

With a background in social work and advanced degrees in theology, Dr. Victory blends soul and strategy seamlessly. She is living proof that strong systems and sincere love aren’t opposites—they’re the secret to lasting impact.

Follow Dr. Vernon on Instagram →

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Our team

The Soul x Science Network flows out of the life and leadership of Dr. R.A. & Lady Victory Vernon—25+ years of pastoring, nearly 30 years of marriage, and a global impact that speaks for itself. Together, they’ve proven that healthy m

Let’s Talk.

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