Living in His Grace

Apostle Debbie E. Russell
Founder / President
Eternal Life Apostolic Ministries International, Inc.
Tampa, Florida

Apostle Debbie E. Russell’s journey began at the tender age of 10 when she was baptized at Mount Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church in 1973. There, she served diligently as the Sunday School Secretary and a member of the usher board. She received the gift of the Holy Ghost on April 12, 1985, In Lakeland, Florida; and two years later answered the call to ministry, stepping into her destiny as an Evangelist.

In 1987, Apostle Russell was licensed as an Evangelist by Pastor John Epps of Full Gospel Tabernacle International Ministries in Plant City, Florida. For over 15 years, she carried out her evangelistic calling, ministering with a powerful prophetic mantle and a remarkable gift of discernment, evident since childhood.

In 2003, Apostle Russell transitioned to pastoral ministry, establishing Eternal Life Ministries International in Los Angeles, California. She later relocated to Tallahassee, Florida, where she planted the ministry again, beginning humbly in her living room. She now serves as Senior Pastor of Eternal Life Apostolic Ministries International in Tampa, Florida.

Apostle Russell is known for her creativity, compassion, and dedication to God's people. She has a special burden for women, particularly young single mothers, drawing from her own experiences of raising a daughter as a single parent. Her ministry is deeply focused on empowering women who have faced abuse and challenges, helping them rebuild their self-esteem and rediscover their worth. She often declares:
"I am prime and not choice. Quality and not quantity. I am a Queen."

As a spiritual mother and mentor, Apostle Russell has nurtured and guided countless men and women across the United States, helping them discover and develop their spiritual gifts. Her commitment to mentoring and outreach is evident through her initiatives, which include:

• Esther’s Glory Women’s Ministry and Mentorship Program
• Eternal Life Community Outreach Food Pantry

Apostle Russell earned an Associate of Arts degree in Sociology from Los Angeles Southwest College and completed two years of studies in Early Elementary Education and Psychology at the University of Phoenix. 

On October 1, 2017, she was elevated to Chief Apostle. In this capacity, she serves as the Overseer of:

• The Grace of God Full Gospel Ministry in Cordele, Georgia
• SHD Word Outreach Ministry in Warner Robins, Georgia

Apostle Russell is the proud mother of one daughter and grandmother to a beloved grandson, who is the joy of her life. She is the daughter of Mother Pearlie Daniels (of the Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church). Apostle Russell has over 38 years of preaching the Word of God, she carries a profound and undeniable anointing that touches all who encounter her ministry. She resides in Tampa, Florida, continuing to fulfill her divine calling with unwavering faith and passion.