Dr. William A. Shaw, Jr. has dedicated his life to ministry, service, and bridging the gap between the church and the community. A native of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Dr. Shaw’s journey in ministry began in 1984 at Palestine Baptist Church under the guidance of Pastor I.S. Mays. This pivotal moment marked the start of a lifelong commitment to fulfilling God's mandate for his life.

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In the early years of his ministry, Dr. Shaw served as an armor bearer for Pastor Mays. During this time, he initiated a Bible study at the church, engaging in evangelism and reaching out to the youth in the streets. His passion for ministry extended to Pleasant View Baptist Church in Pine Bluff (now known as Pleasant View Ministries Church).  While there, he supported his grandfather, Rev. Willie Shaw, in pastoral duties. Additionally, he actively engaged in park and prison ministry, shaping his belief in the idea of “Ministry Beyond the Walls.”

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In 1986, Dr. Shaw was named the pastor of Pleasant View Ministries Church.  “Ministry Beyond the Walls” became his guiding vision, allowing him to further emphasize the importance of taking God's message beyond the confines of the church walls. Dr. Shaw believes in growing, edifying, and empowering the congregation within the church, then extending their reach to those who do not know God.  

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His commitment to this vision led he and his then wife, Tonya, on a medical mission to Limon, Honduras, where he provided medical aid and support to those in need.  His experiences gained in Honduras propelled him to implement church unity throughout his local community and increased his involvement on social, economic, and political levels to bring positive change.

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Dr. Shaw worked at Jefferson Regional Medical Center (JRMC) in Pine Bluff for 40 years.  Serving as a surgical technician, he viewed his professional career as an extension of his ministry.  He found opportunities to minister to patients, surgeons, and colleagues, instilling hope and faith in times of sickness and fear.  He retired from JRMC in 2020.

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The year 2021 would prove to be a time of new doors opening.  It was during this time that Dr. Shaw became a member of Pastors on Patrol, a faith-based mentoring movement that brings pastors of different denominations together under the leadership of Rev. Jesse Turner. They walk the halls of middle and high schools in Pine Bluff and establish relationships with students as well as teachers. 

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In July, Dr. Shaw was among five other local clergy – who were chosen to represent all members of Pastors on Patrol – honored by the National Alliance of Faith and Justice with the PEN OR PENCIL Award and the President's Volunteer Service Award and pin.

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The awards were given at the 50th annual National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice Conference and Training in Birmingham, Ala.  Dr. Shaw received a letter and pin from President Joe Biden for his work.  

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In 2021, he began to serve as a mentor at Watson Chapel High School.  After being provided with a classroom to teach a Christian Enrichment course, he made history by becoming the first person to teach Bible study in a public school in the state of Arkansas.  

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Dr. Shaw assists United Way of Southeast Arkansas by giving much needed support to families in need. He also began serving as secretary for the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Ministerial Alliance in 2021.  

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Dr. Shaw is a graduate of Watson Chapel High School and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.  He is also a graduate of the Breath of Life Ministry School and Leadership Course.  He served five years with the Army National Guard.  

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In 2019, he received his Doctor of Theology Degree in Religious Education from Gospel Ministry Outreach Theological Institute (now known as Spiritual Revelation Kingdom of God Theological Institute).  He currently teaches classes about Righteousness and Faith for the institute.  

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For several years, Dr. Shaw presented Light of the World Fellowship, an outdoor event filled with exhortation, Gospel music singers, praise dancers and food.  He received a Community Service Award from the city of Pine Bluff for the positive impact of this event.

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Beyond his pastoral and professional responsibilities, Dr. Shaw enjoys spending time with his family, reading, listening to music, and mentoring youth. His love for laughter and comedy, stemming from his days as a class clown and stand-up comedian, enriches his sermons, bringing joy to the congregation.

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Looking ahead, Dr. Shaw’s aspirations include fostering unity among churches, regardless of denomination, race, or culture. He envisions a collaborative effort to reach out to a world unfamiliar with God and Jesus Christ. Additionally, he seeks to address the challenges faced by the youth in the community by implementing programs that provide direction and hope.

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Dr. Shaw expresses gratitude for the grace of God, emphasizing the need to draw closer to Him and discern His will for the church and Christian society. With a supportive congregation, six children, 12 grandchildren and one great grandchild, Dr. Shaw remains committed to making a difference and fulfilling the will of God at Pleasant View Ministries Church.