Elder Robert L Middleton Jr. serves as Pastor of New Beginnings Ministries (NBC) in New Haven, Connecticut. He was raised by his mother in a Christian home and was very active in church. Like a lot of young men, Elder Middleton strayed away from the church as a teenager and became involved in a local street gang called "The Newhallville Dogs". This lifestyle quickly caused Elder Middleton to become drawn into several illegal activities which ultimately led to his arrest in 1989 for conspiracy to commit murder. But God had other plans for Elder Middleton. By the grace of God, Elder Middleton was released and placed on probation and received a second chance. He began to work in the very system that he at one time had been a part of.  Elder Middleton became involved in counseling young men and women in the Department of Corrections and the Judicial System and has helped to make a difference in many lives. Elder Middleton has served as Program Director in several programs throughout Connecticut.

Because of Elder Middleton's childhood foundation in Christ, he soon began attending Church again and gave his life to Christ in 1994. Elder Middleton was called to preach in 1996 under the leadership of Superintendent Augustus Pullen, Pastor of Rehoboth Church of God in Christ, and was ordained as an Elder in 1999. He faithfully served his Pastor and the Rehoboth congregation for approximately ten years. While under the leadership of Superintendent, Elder Middleton diligently served in any capacity he was needed. From faithfully teaching YPPW to street witnessing to teaching bible study.

In May of 2003, Elder Middleton answered the commission to Pastor and founded New Beginnings Church of God In Christ. After a brief period of holding services at the YWCA, the church moved to 1379 Chapel Street, New Haven, Connecticut in November of the same year. After completing the assignment, which God had given Elder Middleton on Chapel Street, the Lord moved opened up the door for the ministry to move to its current location, 2340 State Street, Hamden, CT. Elder Middleton truly has a heart for the ministry as well as a love for souls. He knows that God has predestined him for a time such as this. Through his obedience to the direction of God he has implemented a five-fold ministry focusing on Evangelism, Missions, Outreach, Worship, Teaching and Development.

Elder Middleton's commitment to NBC extends beyond the pulpit, he teaches Bible Study, and is active in community based discipleship. He has the ability to assist members to develop the God given gifts within them and encourages spiritual growth.
Elder Middleton has been happily married since 1993 to Evangelist Lawanda Middleton and is the father of 4 children and the grandfather of 2.
God declares in Jeremiah 3:15 "I will give you shepherds after my own heart who will feed you with knowledge and understanding", and Elder Middleton is truly that shepherd for the members of NBC.