"...Let them serve as deacons."
The Deacon Ordination welcomed six new Deacons to Ebenezer. Having demonstrated their Servant Leadership as Deacon-Elects over the past year, the candidates were celebrated by family, friends and the Ebenezer Church Family.
Our keynote speaker, Rev. Dr. Keith Jones of Shiloh Baptist Church in Norfolk gave an inspiring message asking the question, "are you faithful?" "Faith," he stated, "is believing so deeply in a thing that it exudes in your actions. It becomes the essence of your being." He encouraged the candidates and congregation to be faithful over three things: their finances, family and most importantly their family of faith.
Deacon Gallop presented the candi-dates for ordination and gave the report of the Ordination Council which comprised the leaders of Ebenezer. Rev. Dr. Jones gave the charge to the candidates which was followed by the charge to the members of Ebenezer by Deacon Robert West.
Deacon Ron Marshall presented each candidate with a bible and hymnal telling them to study the word and keep a song in their heart. After Deacon Isaiah Hill of Antioch Missionary Baptist gave the prayer of dedication and led the laying on of hands, Pastor Gatling annointed each of the candidates and presented the following Deacons to the members of Ebenezer:
Deacon William Brown
Deacon Leonard Cooper
Deacon Marcellous Mapp
Deacon Nathanial Phillips
Deacon Larry Powell
Deacon Tyrone Valentine
Many were overwhelmed to see how God's work has manifested in each of these gentlemen's lives. It was a joyous occasion for all. Congratulations to our newest Deacons!