"This has been the best anniversary that I have experienced!" exclaimed Pastor Eddie B Pruitte, Jr. at the conclusion of his 16th Pastoral Anniversary Celebration as pastor of Holiness Tabernacle Church Of God In Christ. "I didn’t have to do anything – you all took the lead, planned the services and I thank you so much for your giving and expressions of love." His heartfelt thanks to the Pastor’s Aide Committee and entire congregation were a genuine reflection of his appreciation and gratitude.
Indeed, many of the saints had only the best reflections of Pastor Pruitte during both pastoral anniversary services, which took place Oct 12th and Oct 19th.
"Thank you for the opportunity to serve!" exclaimed Mother Doris Cassidy, on behalf of the Hospitality Department. She invited each hospitality member to stand to their feet in honor of Pastor, noting what a privilege it was for them to minister in this way.
"Thank you so much!" shared Missionary Myrna Howard on behalf of the Missions Department. "[Pastor Pruitte] allows me to work my gift – he saw something in me and gave me that opportunity."
"Pastor Pruitte has an appreciation for the music ministry," said Aspiring Missionary Delia Pruitte on behalf of the Music Department. She went on to share that in the early of Holiness Tabernacle, Pastor Pruitte served as both the church organist and the minister of music until the Lord sent along help. "We thank God Pastor was willing to accept the help!" laughed Asp. Missy. Pruitte.
Representing the Public Relations Department, Missionary Danielle Powell remarked, "I have grown up in this church and throughout the years, Pastor Pruitte has entreated me as one of his daughters." Missionary Powell went on to say that just as a father, Pastor spoke confidence into her life, including allowing her to serve as president of the department.
"Pastor Pruitte loves the youth. He is a big kid at heart!" declared Missionary Andrea Mabry, to which the congregation agreed with chuckles and smiles. "We appreciate you and we love you," echoed Sister Colleen Brown, who also represented the Youth Department.
Representing the Men's Department, Deacon David Moses shared that Pastor "taught the true values of serving God." With obvious sincerity, he reflected that one could feel the love coming out of Pastor.
"While Pastor Pruitte is an honorary member of each department," began Elder John Mabry, Jr. on behalf of the Sunday School Department, "he allows leaders to run with their ideas." Elder Mabry then spoke of Pastor's willingness to support the various auxiliaries with their efforts.
Speaking on behalf of the Usher's Board, Mother Freda Benjamin spoke confidently of Pastor – a man of integrity and prayer. "He expounds on the Word of God in such a way that both the youngest child and the most highly educated adult can understand him."
"I’ve never been to a church where the pastor cared that much about you," shared Sister Jean Moses on behalf of the Women’s Department, "even to tell you when you’re wrong." She went on to express her thanks to Pastor Pruitte for all he has done in her life.
Not only were the services filled with love from the Holiness Tabernacle church family, but the Word of God was brought forth by two powerful men of God – Pastor Wayne Cream of Holy Mt. Zion Temple of Deliverance COGIC in Fredericksburg and Pastor Calvin Harris of Reconciliation COGIC in Richmond.
"You have before you a great leader," began Pastor Cream as he came to the pulpit. "You need [a man of God] to give you knowledge and understanding." His message focused on the importance of godly leaders preaching the Word "in season and out of season."
During the second anniversary service, Pastor Harris reminded the saints that "leadership doesn't start in the pulpit." He noted that Pastor Pruitte's elevation did not come overnight. It came through faithful and dedicated service unto God. The responsibility of the membership, then, is to obey, pray for and encourage the pastor.
Without doubt, the 16th Pastoral Anniversary was one that Pastor Pruitte, his family and the Holiness Tabernacle congregation would not soon forget. For most of all, it was the mighty presence of the Lord that moved on each heart and blessed all in attendance!