In 1995, the Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association, Inc was founded by Reverend Ronald Stephenson, M.Div. who was moved to do something about the lack of sickle cell awareness and support services for families affected by SCD in the region. His motivation to form the group was kindled by the comments of an acutely ill patient with SCD, who informed him that her biggest problem and that of many patients with SCD was that “no one seemed to care.” As a way of showing patients with SCD that some people do care, the MSCA was formed with the participation and support of a small group of patients, their family members, and healthcare workers at Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center. The mission of the organization at that time was to promote awareness of SCD and to provide limited support services for all patients with SCD in the region free of charge.

As Founder and President of the organization, Pastor Ron (as he’s affectionately called) led several delegations to Washington to meet with Senators and Congressional Representatives in order to lobby for funds to help find a cure for sickle cell disease.

Pastor Ronald Stephenson is also the Founder and Senior Pastor of Spring of Water Christian Assembly in Randolph, MA, where he serves as principal preacher/teacher of God’s word.

One of his strength is mobilizing people behind a cause. He is very community minded and is well known in the town of Randolph where his church is located. In addition to leading Spring of Water Christian Assembly, Pastor Ron also provides leadership to the Randolph Interfaith Clergy which is made up of clergy leaders of the various Houses of Worship in Randolph.

With a heart for missions, Pastor Ron has travelled, preached, and impacted the lives of people in Haiti, South Africa, Jamaica, Bermuda, and the United Kingdom.

He was born in the island of Jamaica, and is married to the lovely Sonia Stephenson, who is his partner in life and ministry. Together they are the proud parents of two children and nine grandchildren.