50/25 Digital Booklet

50/25

LAWRENCE RAPHAEL POWELL CELEBRATING LIFE, HONORING ACHIEVEMENTS, & EMBRACING THE FUTURE

COMMEMORATIVE BOOKLET & KEEPSAKE

501 EAST HAZELWOOD AVENUE, RAHWAY NJ 07065 | WWW.AGAPECENTER.ORG

Congratulations to our Son

We thank God for answering our prayer. We asked God for a child and God gave us the right one. God gave us exceedingly, abundantly, and even more than we could ask or think when He gave us you.

Son, you have been a tremendous treasure to us; our hearts have been made glad because you are in our lives and for all the things you have accomplished, but the best is yet to come. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life: and you will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Your loving Mother and Father,

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Hark and Rebecca Powell

Dear Lawrence,

I’m so thankful to God that you are my brother. My life has been truly blessed and enriched! I’m honored and consider it a privilege to call you my friend and my Pastor. The memories we have are precious and full of smiles and laughter. Just know that you are beloved.

Love your sister, Annette Gillette

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David Daughtry - A skilled musician and highly sought after psalmist, David Daughtry has been an essential fixture within the Gospel music and entertainment industries for over a decade and has been groomed and mentored by some of the industry’s finest. He currently serves as Director of Praise & Worship at West Angeles COGIC. “God has truly blessed me beyond measure. But I believe there is so much more for me to do... The best is truly yet to come!” A true minister of the Gospel, David is on a mission to sing to the glory of God that souls might be saved, and lives may be changed by His power divine.

Marc Theobald - is becoming one of the hottest acts in the stand up scene.

Marc used to make jokes as he worked as a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company. He made doctors laugh constantly, so he decided to take his act to other people as well. Marc entered the stand up comedy scene and never looked back. He tours nationally, has performed internationally, and has landed featured spots on various television comedy shows. A respected writer, Marc co-wrote the films One Mic and Comic Groove for comedian and 30 Rock star Tracy Morgan.

Micah Stampley - is a multi-talented worship leader, songwriter and producer

whose music has a global flavor. “I stay true to the message that I’ve always had which is the love of Jesus. My songs always lead you back to the cross.” He made his recording debut in 2005 and since then God has opened doors to a variety of opportunities including acting. Micah is a devoted family man who is passionate about serving God and spreading the gospel. His new project “Love Never Fails” showcases his continued commitment to growing musically and sharing the gospel in new and fresh ways to a world that desperately needs hope.

A Time to Pray

Keshia Parker

Greetings from Afar I Welcome

Georgette L. Douglas

Presenting Lawrence Powell

Aaron Raphael Powell

Acting Up A Time to Worship

David Daughtry

A Time to Laugh

Marc Theobald

Greetings from Afar II Celebrating Dad

Adria, Aaron and Ashlyn Powell

A Time to Dance

Agape Liturgical Dance Ministry

A Time to Bless

Dr. Wanda Davis

Guess Who? Presentation

Kim Nesbitt-Good

Surprise

Bishop Harold Ray

A-Zamar A Time to Sing

Micah Stampley

Finally

Lawrence Powell

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A short bio on

Lawrence Powell Lawrence “Larry” Powell was born on March 5, 1964 at Saint Michael’s Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey. The date is accurate though he often jokes that the year may be incorrect on his birth certificate. Along with his sister Annette, his parents, Hark and Rebecca Powell raised Lawrence in Rahway, New Jersey on Leesville Avenue.

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Furthermore, Lawrence was nurtured in a godly environment and was “born again” in January 1980 at Holy Mountain Church of God in Christ, also in Rahway. His pastor was Elder Robert L. Bragg—beloved by many and now in heaven. Elder Bragg along with his lovely wife, Mother Gladys Bragg taught Lawrence the ways of the Lord and presented a wonderful example of Christlikeness to follow. It was under their spiritual care that he recognized and acknowledged a call to ministry.

Lawrence attended Rahway Public Schools—Roosevelt Elementary, Rahway Junior High and Rahway High School graduating in June 1982. Admittedly, there were a few incidents during those formative years requiring occasional parental visits. His mother used to say she attended school just as much as Lawrence—to address behavioral issues like talking too much and challenging authority.

Eventually Lawrence would head off to college graduating from Rutgers University, in December of 1986. A short break allowed him to secure a full time job at American Express in travel services before attending graduate school at Oral Roberts University in August 1988. Life at ORU was a refreshing experience affording Lawrence the privilege of meeting people from all over the USA and abroad.

While there he also met the university founder and president, world-renowned evangelist, Dr. Oral Roberts and his wife, Mrs. Evelyn.

Leaving New Jersey wasn’t an easy decision to make but Lawrence felt drawn to ORU and planned to ultimately settle in Southern California after graduation. There he could escape the chilly winter temperatures of New Jersey to enjoy the sun and palm trees of California. Nevertheless, while in Tulsa, Oklahoma it became clear his time away from New Jersey was but for a short season. Purpose and destiny required a return to his home state and city for ministry. Convinced he had heard from God, Lawrence immediately rolled up his sleeves to labor in word and deed—preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom and healing the sick Jesus’ name.

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His beginnings were humble when he first answered the call of God to pastor. The first service of Agape Family Worship Center was held in his parent’s garage in Rahway on Sunday, May 27, 1990 with seven adults and four children in attendance. Today, nearly twenty–five years later, Lawrence continues what was started, encouraging others with powerful, prolific and practical presentations of the Gospel.

Thousands of families from across the tri-state region flock to Agape every week to experience warm fellowship, dynamic worship and anointed teaching. Through outreach, evangelism and multimedia broadcasting, Lawrence is bringing the Good News of Jesus Christ to people all over the world.

From a small garage, to the now state–of–the–art facility, known as Agape Pointe, Lawrence’s vision still remains the same; “to proclaim and demonstrate the love of God to the world.” His humble spirit and genuine heart for people endear him to diverse audiences of every ethnicity. With a strong commitment and genuine passion for outreach and evangelism, under the leadership of Lawrence, Agape provides assistance to the local community and those in prison; by supplying much needed resources, materials and support services. Countless testimonies of hope, healing and transformation pour in, from those being touched and liberated through Agape’s outreach efforts.

A much sought–after speaker, respected Biblical teacher and author, Lawrence Powell earned a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and a master’s degree from Oral Roberts University. Currently he is pursuing a Doctorate of Strategic Leadership at Regent University.

It is obvious to all who know him that Lawrence is preparing and positioning a mighty generation of leaders at Agape. It is a generation of world changers, poised to advance and expand the Kingdom for the glory of God. Lawrence is also the author of three books, The Power of the Seed and It’s Your Call • 7 Sure Ways to Fulfill Your Life’s Purpose and Take the Plunge.

Lawrence is the father of three, Adria Janelle, Aaron Raphael and Ashlyn Gabrielle—each, his heart, pride and joy.

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CELEBRATES THE LIFE HONORS THE ACHIEVEMENTS & EMBRACES THE FUTURE OF LAWRENCE RAPHEAL POWELL, SR. PASTOR AGAPE FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER CONGRATULATIONS ON

50/25 FIFTY YEARS OF LIFE AND TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF PASTORING WE WISH YOU A BLESSED BIRTHDAY AND CONTINUED SERVICE AS WE CONTINUE “TURNING DECISIONS FOR CHRIST INTO DISCIPLES OF CHRIST” Elder Wanda Daughtry Boykin

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Congratulations Pastor Lawrence Powell On Your

It is a blessing and an honor to celebrate you Pastor Lawrence Powell, on your 25 years of pastoring and for 50 years of life. We have known you since your teenage years when you were just 16 or 17 years old. We have watched you complete high school, college and go on to complete your ministerial studies at the Oral Roberts University. We watched in amazement as you started your first church with your family out of your mother and father's garage.

God has done a wonderful work and has propelled you into a ministry of pastoring over 4,000 strong. It has been a blessing watching your journey from a teenager to a young and mighty man of God in the edifice of God's kingdom and the saving of souls.

We are sure, but will continue to pray, that the future will be far more successful than the past. God bless you.

Pastor Dr. David C. Graham and Evangelist Shirley J. Graham

Holy Temple C.O.G.I.C. 84 First Avenue, South Toms River, NJ 08757

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Dear Pastor Larry, Giving honor to whom honor is due, the angel that is appointed by God, the set man of this house, the gift who is the apple of God’s eye, our Pastor Lawrence Raphael Powell. We celebrate you on your very special day that you were born.

We come together this evening June 8, 2014 that was set aside to celebrate your 50th Birthday and your 25th Ministry Anniversary. We celebrate your life and achievements, and we are embracing the future with you with great expectations.

God has called you for such a time as this, to do war in the heavens, to tear down strongholds and to break every chain that is keeping the people of God from coming forth to do great exploits for the Kingdom of God. For this is the day, time and the hour that we as The Body of Christ, must come together and stand with you as our Apostle and Apostolic Leader, who is called to do great things in the Kingdom of God and on this earth. You are called to build and to plant, to tear down and overthrow anything that is not of God. We stand with you as God takes you to your next level of ministry. For you have been called to the nation as a mouth piece of God, as an ambassador to represent the Kingdom of God. You are a man of integrity and you have shown yourself to be faithful and committed to the things of God. We want you to know that we love and appreciate you more than you know. You have shown us what a real leader looks like by the way you act and by the way you conduct yourself as a leader in Agape Family Worship Center. So we salute you Pastor and honor you on this day.

Brian, Trennedy, Terence & Tynesha Jackson 30

Dear Pastor Larry, Congratulations on your 50th Birthday and 25 years of Ministry.

May the Lord guide you continuously.

Isaiah 58:11; Psalms 121:1-2

Lena Powell & Mamie Powell Coonce

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Dear Pastor Larry, Happy 50th Birthday and congratulations on your 25 years in ministry. God Bless you and I wish you many more.

Love Sister Renee Johnson The Flower Puff 1067 Elizabeth Avenue Elizabeth, NJ 07201 908.289.5855 www.theflowerpuff.com

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Dear Pastor Larry, Joshua 1:9 “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest�

Love, Elder and Sister James Jennings, National Mother M.R. Blocker, Mother Clyburn, Elder James Anthony Jennings, W. Brian Jennings, Michelle Jennings, Elder Karen Jennings and their children.

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Dear Pastor Larry, You are the epitome of Faith- Hope and Love.

First your Faith – You are the epitome of Faith. For all the times you pray and all the times you believe, favor is granted. On this day, You walk in the realm of creation; humble, unafraid and unshakable.

Secondly Your Hope - You are the epitome of Hope. Through your thoughts and actions you continue to be the space for miracles to show.

Hope is elevated around you for others to manifest what’s possible.

Third your Love. You are the epitome of Love and selfless sacrifice. For the people you love you are a Man that is willing to have his heart broken over and over again. You have dared to put yourself at issue. And for what? So that we may see, so that we may hear, so that we may become the human beings that we were meant to be.

So it is most fitting that we celebrate and honor you on your 50/25.

Thank you for being the man that you are. Thank you for being the leader that you are; but most of all thank you for being the LOVE that you are.

- The Core Team of Agape Men’s Fellowship

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THE

BEYOND PULPIT Q & A with Pastor Larry Powell

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B EYOND T HE PUL PIT

Q: As a young man, who was your mentor/ mentors?

A: My mentors were my pastor growing up and my parents – you know they invested a lot in me. I looked up to them, I observed them, and I watched them very closely. Then, there were some other persons that I considered mentors, at least from afar, people that really inspired and influenced me, like Bishop Charles Blake – to this day I love him and his ministry, and his leadership. I observed him, and certainly learned a lot by that observation.

Q: Would you say these mentors are also your heroes?

A: Yes, I’d definitely agree with that. I would, perhaps, add to that list of people Dr. Oral Roberts.

When I think of my first meeting with Dr. Roberts, I can recall him asking me about some of the most important things I had learned as a student at ORU (Oral Robers University). Immediately, I thought of my observation of him as incredible leader of the 20th (and a bit of) the 21st century. I observed him to be like Nehemiah, who in the face of criticism, would stay on the wall. That inspired me to have the same determination, despite negative criticism.

Q: You mentioned your parents as being your mentors when you were a child. How influential were they in your decision to become a gospel minister?

A: I would say my mother was very determined to see that my sister and I were raised in a proper

environment, where we were instructed in the ways of the Lord. She was a bit more of the initiator, probably more so then my father, so she was more influential in that part. My father never tried to oppose that decision – in fact, he supported it. Even with his support, she was the one who made sure we were at Sunday school, morning service, Sunday night service, YPWW, midweek service, and just overall involved in ministry.

Being involved is like a sponge in so many ways – you pick up a lot and it certainly helps in shaping you into who you become.

Q: What still inspires and drives you to keep going?

A: First and foremost, and not to sound preachy, but it’s my love for God and my love for His people. I love to help people as best as I can... I love to encourage... I love to inspire. Since those needs are constant, it gives me fuel and it certainly motivates me, even as I mature, to take the time I have left here, and do the best that I can with it. My desire is to make a positive mark, one that is impossible to erase.

Q: Your passion for helping others is pretty evident to those around you. It’s no secret that you continuously push yourself in that area. I’d imagine that this is no easy task. I have to ask, what has been some of your greatest challenges?

A: I think, probably the greatest challenge would be, as someone once said, “The enemy ‘in-a-me’.” My own perceptual challenges, like “Can I do this? Should I do this?” Perhaps it can be defined as (or at least in some part) an inferiority complex. You know, where you’re

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MY DESIRE IS TO MAKE A POSITIVE MARK, ONE THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO ERASE

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not as confident as you should be. It’s struggling with that, and eventually, prevailing over it - thank God for victory in that! It’s something you deal with often. Like, “Wow, I’ve got this on my heart to do –but can I do it?” But then, you prove you can, to the glory of God, by his strength, and by His grace.

Q: We all know that you’re a proud father of 3.

What role, if any, have your children played in your career?

A: My children are among the most of influential persons. They are, indeed, a source of great joy, encouragement, and constant motivation. I try to do the best that I can to parent, and to father my children. You know, they didn’t come with a handbook (chuckles). I’ve had to learn along the way. I see these lives, and I see the significance of God placing them in my life as an assignment.

I realize that part of that means nurturing them, ministering to them, and helping shape them into what, I trust, they will ultimately become as people of God – and leaders in their own right.

Q: I love that perspective! To date, what would you consider to be your greatest achievement?

A: My Children! (laughs) Well, let me elaborate - I would say my children AND my family. Then there’s my church family... being able to start off with just a handful of people, and a vision – and eventually seeing that vision manifest into what it has become today. Then realizing that we’re still

only scratching the surface! I expect that achievement to continue to evolve and expand.

Q: So with that being said, where do you see Agape Family Worship Center in the next 10 years?

A: Well, I think that’s a great question! As far as forecasting goes, I believe God has started something wonderful inside of us. And as I stated earlier, I believe we’re just scratching the surface. I see growth and expansion. I see the multiplicity of things that God has placed in my heart to do more with even more church plants. I’m referring to the “Agape brand”, so to speak, and the expansion of it. I see us training up leaders, and having that as one of our staples. As a church that indeed raises up leaders and sends them forth into the world. I see new a campus, and new campuses. I see Agape strengthening families. I see us taking this gospel, and presenting it in such a practical way, as to totally transform the lives, of not only those in our congregation, but those connected or associated in any way – and even those that we encounter on a daily basis!

Q: Well, we’ve covered a couple things. We know you’re a successful father, a CEO, a pastor, and a leader.

Looking back on it now, what does 50/25 mean to you?

A: Well, as I’ve stated before, I’m just wondering if the birth certificate was accurate! I’ll go with this “50” thing for now, just to minimize any confusion! (winks) All jokes aside, I’m truly grateful. I’m grateful to see 50, and it is significant to me that God has allowed me the privilege

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of life this long. 25 years of ministering, preaching, in an official capacity... I’m humbled by it, honored by it. I’m excited that I’ve been able to stand strong for this long, and it’s an encouragement. I expect that if I can do it for 25 years, I can certainly do it 25 more! So I’m looking back with tremendous gratitude, but I’m also looking forward with great expectations for even better days to come!

Q: Which number is more important, the 50 or 25?

A: I have to say, the 25, indeed. I think the 25 is more important because of what I’ve been able to do in this capacity, and with this assignment. I’ve certainly, in my opinion, have influenced and impacted more people in the last 25 years than in the first.

Q: I’m going to name a couple things, and you tell me the first words that come to your mind. What’s your favorite color?

A: I don’t really have favorite color, I like mulitcolors many colors.

Q: What’s your favorite movie?

A: My favorite movie?! What am I supposed to say?

The 10 Commandments? (laughs) I like comedies. What if we can just say that. I like to laugh - I need a good laugh every now and then. I also like suspense movies, and action movies as well!

Q: Man after my own heart! What’s your favorite food?

A: I like Italian food. I like shrimp. I know those aren’t the best things, depending on who you talk to, but I like shrimp parmesan, chicken parmesan, and turkey lasagna.

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Q: I know where I’m going after this interview!

What’s your favorite holiday?

A: Definitely Chirstmas.

Q: Because it just screams family?

A: Well, it screams family, and then of course, the reason for the season – Jesus Christ. Celebrating His birth and His life.

Q: What’s your favorite book?

A: The Bible of course! Other then that, I would probably say category of book, since I don’t know if I have a favorite book title. I like things that speak to me about leadership and self-improvement. You know, I really find those types of books encouraging.

Q: Who are some of your favorite artists? Musicians, really – whether it’s gospel or secular.

A: Ok, that’s pretty easy. We can go back, and this makes it a little old school, but Andre Crouch is absolutely amazing! Also, Kirk Franklin - definitely!

You know, his music is just phenomenal – the message, and pretty much everything! I also love the Winans, (everybody knows that). As far as secular musicians, it’s really what I’ve enjoyed growing up.

The sounds that were always appealing to me were Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder... Oh man, Stevie Wonder!! Oh yes, and The Clark sisters! I can’t leave the Clark Sisters out – or the whole Clark family, for that matter! Those are the ones!

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I LIKE TO LAUGH - I NEED A GOOD LAUGH EVERY NOW AND THEN.

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I REALLY WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW, (WITHOUT IT SOUNDING LIKE A CLICHÉ), GOD REALLY LOVES YOU...

B E Y OND T HE PUL PIT

Q: Did your parents allow secular music to be played in the house?

A: Well, my parents didn’t forbid it. Actually, if anyone would’ve had a problem, it would’ve been more so my Mom, because my father always listened to secular music. In fact, we regularly listened to CBS 101, and they played all of the Motown songs! I mean those songs from the 50s and 60s that he grew up on and enjoyed.

That’s what we were listening to every time we were in the car with him! As for my mom, she wouldn’t forbid us to listen to secular music. If we had Soul Train or American Bandstand on the TV, she might make a little fuss, but she never made us turn it off. But she’d fuss and talk about how the people look shaking and dancing, and all of that. (laughs). I will say, though, that I was told to be very careful with the music I that listened to. I was taught to use caution with what you allow in your ear and eye gates – that this is very important. And, to this day, I believe that to be the truth.

Q: I know we covered where you saw Agape in the next decade, but as we’re coming to a close here, I’m curious - where do you see yourself in 10 years?

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A: Well, once I complete this program that I am in now, (pursuing my Doctorate of Strategic Leadership), I see myself as a more effective, and compelling leader here at Agape. I see my reach far surpassing the walls of Agape, to be as effective as I can in helping to coach other pastors, ministers, and leaders. My goal is to help them to be all they can be, and in turn, help the church of Jesus Christ grow and advance.

Q: What would you say to anyone out there that’s looking for a word of encouragement?

A: Well, I could say a whole lot. I guess the first thing that comes to mind, that I really want everyone to know, (without it sounding like a cliché), God really loves you, and you are a person of purpose! You’re not a mistake, and even though you might have messed up, please don’t give up! Get back on track!

Realizing Jeremiah 29:11 is still in the Word - “The thoughts He thinks concerning you are to prosper you, to give you a future, and a great expected end.”

So I say, forget what’s behind you, press towards what is before you, because your best days are just ahead!!

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Congratulations on 25 years of successful ministry, Pastor Lawrence. It has been a pleasure to minster at Agape, I love the spirit of your congregation.

As you celebrate this year of Jubilee, may the Lord continue to bless you with health.

Psalm 103:5 "He satisfies my desires with good things, so that my youth is renewed like the eagles. The Lord works righteousness and justice for all" Blessings in Jesus, Pastor Gwen Mouliert

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The Agape Family Worship Center

Music Ministry

´ AZamar 52

We honor our Pastor

Lawrence Raphael Powell as he celebrates 50 years of life and 25 years of Pastoral Ministry!

Pastor, we love you!!!

May God continue to bless you in all that you do!

And may your latter years be greater than the former! î Že best is yet to come! ´ AZamar 53

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Elder Vaughn and Sister Vena St. Hillaire in conjunction with ServiceMaster Cleaning Company wish Pastor Larry a blessed 50th Birthday and we celebrate with you your 25 years in ministry. We pray God’s continual blessings upon your life.

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The media ministry of Agape congratulates Pastor Lawrence R. Powell on his 50th Birthday and for 25 years of proclaiming and demonstrating the love of God to the world.

“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant„; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

— Isaiah 41:9-10 (NIV)

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Dear Pastor Larry, Thank you for your faithful service, your tireless dedication and for listening to the father’s heart to being the kind of leader who points people to the Lord. Happy Birthday & Anniversary!!!

Love, Pamela G.Moore

Thank you for being you: transparent, lover of God and people, humorous, one who encourages and a champion of excellence!

Love you Pastor. Happy Birthday & Anniversary!!!

Jacquelyn L.Moore

I just want to congratulate you on 50 years of life and 25 years of ministry. Thank you for your faithful service to Agape and the body of Christ, you are truly a blessing. I love you, wishing you many more. The Best Is Yet To Come!

Bro. Stefon Staunton 60

AFWC Global Missions And The Master’s Commission Ministry Congratulate Pastor Lawrence R. Powell On achieving stellar success in ministry as a beloved Pastor, Leader, Teacher and Friend And for reaching the Milestones of 50/25 with Humility, Grace, Dignity, and Style!

God Bless You Pastor Powell

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The Greeters Ministry celebrate our Pastor,

Lawrence R. Powell

for 25 years of Ministry and Leadership to Agape Family Worship Center.

Celebrating 50 years of life, love and happiness!

May God bless you with many, many more!

Agape Family Worship Center Greeters Leadership Team Alfreda Nixon Evelyn Kirkland James Nance Mary Romany 66

Pamela Johnson Pamela Young Sonia Small Victoria Henderson

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A LETTER

Dear D 72

A LETTER

A LETTER

Dear Daddy,

Daddy Every year I remind you of my age, just in case you forget. Usually I voice my age to ensure you that I’m grown, or that I think I’m grown. Today, I am thanking you for being an outstanding father for 23 years of my life.

Before Aaron and Ashlyn, it was just me—a handful. Since my brother and sister, I’m still here, and still a handful. Yet, you continue to treat me like a King treats his princess. I feel so blessed that you are my father.

On the journey of fatherhood, you learn as you go. I wish I could have made the trip a lot smoother for you, but you allowed me to make mistakes and learn from them. Besides, as you have taught me over the years, turbulence sometimes comes with great heights. But to me, the ride is worth it because I am blessed to have such a genuine and sincere relationship with my dad.

The only person who may not be as ecstatic about all of this is my future husband. Probably because one of my favorite lines is, “My daddy opens doors for me. So why aren’t you?”

God has strategically placed you in my life. One of these reasons is to allow me to see how a real princess is to be treated. Some people feel pity for me whenever I mention that my father is a pastor. They say, “He must be so strict and mean!” But I correct them quickly telling them what kind of man you really are.

Having you as my dad has been and still is one of the greatest pleasures of my life. I watch you preach and teach each week and think to myself, “Wow, what an amazing messenger.”

Dad, I look up to you. Thank you for being my hero. “YOU ARE THE REAL MVP” Love, Your Princess Adria

A LETTER

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Dear A LETTER

Dear Dad,

There are not enough words in the English vocabulary that could help paint a picture to express what you mean to me. Without your direction I don’t know what type of person my sisters or I would be right now. Growing up with a father was always a plus. Growing up with you as my father without a doubt put me ahead of my competition.

Being able to watch how you work and how you react to what life hands you has been beyond monumental to me. I feel proud to have you as my father whenever people realize I am your son and express their love for you.

Wherever we go you seem to attract positivity. Whether it’s the mall, my school when I was younger (always loved having you there—haha), or the grocery store, there is always someone that recognizes you and they always have something nice to say about you and our family.

Your work ethic has proved to be noteworthy and you were never too busy for family. There’s so much that I have observed and learned from you and I know there is so much more that you are willing to teach me. You’ve taught me a lot, and I truly see why wisdom is worth more than riches.

As a kid looking back on our many conversations I now realize that I was a sponge soaking up more precious and valuable information than I could have ever imagined. It’s amazing what people can learn without noticing that they’re actually learning. Not only have you proven to be a great teacher and provider but you’re one of the

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Dad A LETTER

best encouragers I have ever met. No matter how much negativity or positivity I hear from the outside world, your encouraging words seem to be the most impactful.

Sometimes you might not even know exactly what it is that I’m dealing with but you always say the right things. Whenever I’m unsure of myself there you are to push me right back on track. You’ve helped me to realize that by working hard and surrounding myself with like-minded people I can do whatever it is that I want. When people ask what I’m up to and I share my goals I can see the looks on their faces. Some people are very judgmental and some are extremely supportive. Having your support as well as my sisters means so much because it helps deter the feelings I get when I see the judgmental persons look of discontentment. You guys wash away negativity like light expels darkness.

Dad, I want to thank you for always doing what’s right even when people weren’t looking. You are the best possible father God could’ve created for me. Although I find you to be a great mentor and example for a father, I will surpass your expectations of me because I plan on being better than my greatest predecessor. I love you.

Sincerely your son,

Aaron Raphael Powell

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Dear D A LETTER

Dear Dad,

Many a time I wonder what it is like to be you. As your youngest, I’ve been observing you since I can remember.

One thing that I have noticed over the course of my eighteen years is that you have such a giving spirit, and I’m not only referring to material things. Quite frankly, I don’t think you could ever completely realize how much I appreciate and admire this quality of yours. Whether it’s a manicure, food to eat, a bed to lie in, or you telling me how beautiful I am. Thank you.

I often think of how stressful it is to be in your position while simultaneously trying your best to tend to others’ needs. You don’t encourage people just because it’s a Sunday morning or a Wednesday evening. You do this every day and willingly. Again thank you. Moreover, I give great thanks to God for giving you the strength to do so, and I also thank Him for choosing you as a vessel.

You have a calling, a predestined future that God has planned for you; and you’re right on schedule. You are ever so obedient to His will, and I cannot wait to witness all of the great rewards that are coming to you—for that is a reward for me in itself. You have taught me to cherish the little things, the big things, and everything in between. Again, thank you.

A LETTER

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Daddy A LETTER

I blame you for my love of vintage Aretha Franklin, the History and Discovery channels, and Mahalia Jackson.

My friends call me an old spirit for this, but I don’t care. I will forever cherish those car rides when it’s just you, me and the Motown station on the radio. Again, thank you.

Granted, we are not perfect. But I love my imperfect father and I love being your imperfect daughter. I love how you always tell the same stories. I love how Aaron goes insane every time you smack on your cereal and I love how you still always want to hold my hand when we’re out. You’ve created a blueprint for which my future husband (in 700 years, of course) will have to follow. So return the imaginary pistol you always talk about, I’ve got this—thanks to you.

I’m sure you have recognized the repetition at this point in my letter to you. That’s my own little symbolic way of telling you that I can’t possibly thank you enough. Happy 21st birthday El Debarge! Which reminds me, a big thank you for the humor you claim to have passed down to me. As The Delfonics would say, Lalalalalalalalala, I love youuuuu!

Sincerely, Ashlyn Gabrielle Tasha Powell

A LETTER

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A LETTER

Dear Uncle Larry, What a joyous occasion it is to be able to celebrate such a beautiful life. The steps that were ordered for you have left behind a path that many aspire to follow after. As they should!

You are truly someone to admire and we have, ever since we were little. The greatest memories of you are the ones where you brought laughter to our hearts. That is what we love most about you—your ability to bring joy and happiness to any person who has the privilege to share your company.

Dear Uncle As kids we remember so many times when you would flip your eyelids, come upstairs into the TV room and scare us. We were so use to it, that we would be afraid to go down the stairs because we never knew if you were lurking around the corner ready to pop out and scare us again. Those are memories that we shall cherish for a lifetime.

We are beyond blessed and grateful that God decided to place you in our lives making you our uncle. For that we are among the most blessed people in this world. You have the greatest soul, the noblest nature, and the sweetest most loving heart we have ever known. Our love, reverence and admiration for you has grown throughout our lives by seeing how many people you’ve touched simply by being your genuine self. We wish you every happiness today and pray that you shall enjoy many more birthdays to come. We wouldn’t trade you for the world Uncle Larry, Happy Birthday!

Love, Mark, Kandis, and Charisma Gillette

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Dear Pastor Larry, The Usher Ministry is so thankful that God ordered your steps, Pastor Larry, to the Garage in 1990 and then to The Pointe in 2001. We know that He will continue to surround you with favor as we go forward, for the best is yet to come.

Congratulations on your 50th Birthday, and your 25 years in ministry.

Debra Wilkins, Director Core Teams and Ushers

Dear Pastor Larry, “Being confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will complete it unto the day of Jesus Christ.�

Philippians 1:6 NKJV

On your 50th birthday we pray you will continue to walk in the will of the Lord, and faithfully fulfill the purpose for which you were born.

- Rev. & Mrs. Rudolph Gibbs, Sr. 79

Dear Pastor Larry, We, the Rapha Grief-Share Ministry Leaders of Agape Family Worship Center, extend our sincerest Congratulations to you, Pastor Lawrence R. Powell, in celebrating your milestone 50th birthday!

We give glory to God for 25 years of ministry in being about our Heavenly Father’s business. We’re blessed to serve under your spiritual leadership.

We love you Pastor!

Clinton Miller, Kristin Miller and Minister Denette W. Thomas 80

Pastor Powell, Thank you for letting God use you for the things of God and His Kingdom. We love and appreciate you. “Every place that the sole of your foot treads shall be yours.� (Deu: 11:24 NKJV) Mark & Alice Stokes

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Dear Pastor Larry, Having been able to know you these past 10 plus years I see that you walk and speak by faith. This can only be accomplished by your close relationship with GOD. This is and will always be an inspiration to us all. They say that American’s Golden age is 50 and that 50 is the new 30. Well you’re looking good!

God Bless you Min Pat and Bro Walter Brown

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Dear Pastor Larry, Congratulations, Pastor Larry Powell ! “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace. “ (Numbers 6:24-26)

Your best years are ahead of you. Much love, Bro. Clinton Miller, Jr.

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R.E.A.C.H. Ministry Honors

Pastor Lawrence Powell The Good News of Salvation The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, Because the LORD has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.

And they shall rebuild the old ruins, They shall raise up the former desolations, And they shall repair the ruined cities, The desolations of many generations.

Isaiah 61:1-4 (NKJV)

Happy 50th Birthday and 25th Ministry Anniversary 84

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Dear Pastor Larry, Congratulations on your 50th Birthday & 25th Anniversary “Being confident of this very thing, that he who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.�

Philippians 1:6 (NKJV) With Agape, Mamie Maddox

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