Welcome to Rest In Grace Ministries, a sanctuary for discovering and embracing the God-ordained, grace-filled abundant life. Our mission is toinvite and empower every individual to experience this transformative journey, paving the way for a world where grace abounds and every soul can live authentically, guided by the boundless grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. In summation, our mission is “Transforming lives through the liberating Gospel of Grace.”
In a world often dominated by the "try harder" mentality, we recognize the toll this can take on believers. Many find themselves trapped in a cycle of striving—whether it’s breaking bad habits, seeking forgiveness, or overcoming addictions. This constant striving leaves many weary and burdened, never experiencing the rest that Jesus promised when He said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This rest comes from accepting His teaching and embracing His grace.
At Rest In Grace, we are dedicated to facilitating personal transformation. Our vision extends beyond imparting knowledge; we inspire a profound internal shift, enabling individuals to break free from the chains of legalism and experience true freedom in Christ. Through our conferences, Bible studies, and blogs, we provide life changing experiences that delve into the teachings of grace, offering opportunities for spiritual growth and meaningful connections.
God invites us to rest in Him, but this often feels counterintuitive in a world that values performance and self-reliance. However, striving to make ourselves holy and righteous disregards the finished work of Jesus. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith—it is a gift from God, not a result of our own efforts. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 5:21 tells us that God made Christ sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God.
Yet, many continue to try to earn God's favor through church attendance, tithing, and other good deeds, not realizing that Christ has already made us right with God. As 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 declares, we are united with Christ, who has made us pure, holy, and free from sin. We have never had the power to make ourselves holy; Christ has already accomplished this on our behalf.
Lastly, we often spend years praying for forgiveness, not knowing that in Christ, we have already been forgiven in accordance with God's grace (Ephesians 1:7). At Rest In Grace Ministries, we aim to set people free by teaching the gospel of grace. God’s priority is not our works; but rather, a relationship with us. Through this relationship, we will inevitably love, forgive, and overcome sinful habits—not overnight, but through a continual process of trusting, relying on, and depending on Him.
Jesus' death was not in vain; we only need to believe in God to be saved. Believing means trusting, relying on, and depending on Him for all things. The Father and the Son are not focused on our shortcomings but with the relationship we have with them, knowing that Jesus has already made us holy and righteous.
Thank you for your interest in Rest In Grace Ministries. Together, let us journey towards a world where grace abounds, and all may live in the fullness of God's blessings.
Our conferences are designed to be informative and liberating experiences where individuals can dig deeper into the teachings of grace. Attendees engage in meaningful dialogues and form connections with like-minded seekers, all while exploring the liberating message of grace in a supportive community.
Our Bible studies offer a platform for self-reflection and spiritual growth. We explore the timeless wisdom of scripture through the lens of grace, providing insights that encourage a deeper understanding and relationship with God.
Our blogs serve as a continuous source of inspiration and education. We share practical insights and resources to support individuals on their journey, helping them to internalize and live out the transformative power of grace in their daily lives.
Edith Roper, the founder of Rest In Grace Ministries, is a published author known for her transformative devotional, "Rest In Grace," and the companion "Rest In Grace Journal." She has dedicated her life to sharing the profound message of grace, inspiring individuals to foster a deeper connection with the Father. Rooted in grace, Edith's teachings serve as a catalyst for others to explore the Gospel independently while relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Edith's distinguished career includes receiving the prestigious Distinguished Public Service Medal from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and The Public Service Commendation Medal from the Department of the Army. Her journey has been marked by significant achievements, not only in ministry but also as a supportive wife alongside her husband, LTG (R) A.C. Roper.
Armed with dual bachelor's degrees in Sociology and Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Edith initially pursued a successful career in leadership and management within the healthcare insurance sector. However, a pivotal moment led her to embrace a new journey as the Chief Operating Officer of her household, stepping away from corporate life to nurture her family.
With a ministerial license and extensive biblical studies under her belt, Edith honed her teaching skills under the mentorship of Dr. Michael D. Moore and completed the Everyday Seminary program led by Dr. Dharius Daniels. For seven years, alongside her licensed and ordained minister husband, Edith served as a site pastor, overseeing diverse ministries and impacting a community Bible study attended by an average of 200 individuals weekly.
Presently, Edith takes an active role in leading small groups dedicated to the study of grace, guiding participants to grasp fundamental concepts. She has initiated these groups beyond the confines of the church, creating spaces for in-depth exploration. Additionally, Edith contributes her expertise within the church, where she assists in leading small groups through the spiritual growth classes offered to the congregation.
Married to A.C. Roper, an Army Lieutenant General (Retired) and former Birmingham Police Chief, Edith first met her husband on a blind date during college, leading to their union in
1985. They have two adult daughters, Krystle and Amber. In her leisure time, Edith enjoys reading, fitness, global travel, and cherishing quality moments with her loved ones.
Minister A.C. Roper embodies the term “Servant-Leader,” with his influence extending from local grassroots community initiatives to pivotal national leadership roles. Having served in prominent positions in national defense, municipal governance, ministry, and community service, A.C. has gained national acclaim, making appearances on esteemed media platforms such as HBO and ESPN.
A.C. is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of a leadership consulting LLC specializing in executive coaching, crisis management, and training workshops for executives and teams. His focus areas include leadership development, change management, crisis communications, and strategic leadership. He also offers keynote speaking and other specialized community engagement opportunities.
As a Citizen-Soldier, A.C. served in command and staff assignments spanning a period of forty-two years. He made history in 2021 as the first African American in the history of the United States Army Reserve to achieve the rank of Lieutenant General. Upon his retirement in 2024, he was awarded the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the highest non-combat award and the highest joint service decoration in the Department of Defense.
Minister Roper has over thirty-three years of law enforcement experience, culminating in his ten-year tenure as the Chief of Police of the Birmingham Police Department. Known as a transformational leader, he led the department to be recognized as a national model for community policing and citizen engagement. A.C. holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Alabama, as well as a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He also holds an Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from Oakland City University in Indiana.
A.C. is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Academy, the FBI National Executive Institute, and the FEMA Vanguard Crisis Leadership Fellowship. He attended the National Counter-Terrorism Fellowship in Israel and has studied executive leadership development at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. A.C. is an adjunct professor of Criminal Justice and has also taught leadership, credibility, and ethics for the FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (FBI-LEEDA).
An ordained minister for over 30 years, Minister Roper has lectured nationally and internationally on key strategic leadership topics. He is committed to a lifelong mission of coaching, mentoring, and shaping lives through the principles of leadership, legacy, and the liberating Gospel of God’s grace. Alongside his wife, Edith, A.C. cherishes a thriving marriage and celebrates the achievements of their two accomplished daughters, Krystle and Amber.
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