From the Heart of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell DANCING WITH GOD I do enjoy dancing with God. King David danced before God until he was considered a king who lost self respect. I love poetry, flowers, and music. This makes me a sentimentalist. A popular dancer I was before I met Christ my Saviour. Frequently attended night clubs, basking in music sung by the likes of late Brook Benton, Nat King Cole, Sammy Davis, Elvis Presley, Dianna Ross etc. etc. Spent all night sipping varied forms of alcohol. Sometimes I became so intoxicated, I could not distinguish between my mother and a broom stick. Warp and demented, broken in spirit, I was drawn by the love of Christ to a total surrender to His love and care. With the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and a continued infilling of the same, my spirit is now locked in a constant state of rhapsody, inflicted by divine intimacy. “My Beloved is mine, and I am His.” Dear God, stay me with flagons. Comfort me with apples for my heart is sick with love. He has often drawn me into His banqueting hall, where I wash my steps with butter, as he pours me out an abundance of His anointing. I have learned the rules of dancing. He dictates the steps and I follow. I am mesmerized by his gaze, and constant whispers of love sonnets. If you consider me mad making the above statements, then mad I be. You see, nobody has ever loved me like Jesus my Lord. Excuse me, I am gone crazy. Excuse me King David, you could never out dance me. Could never love Him as I do. I am one Apostolic that is drowned in the pool of God’s love.
2
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
The Love of My Life Mitch, the love of my life, was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and one who loved deeply. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to share his dreams, hopes, love, friendship and much more. During the early days of our courtship, while he was at Bible School, his friends and roommates would hear him singing : My Bible and “I” I” They later discovered that “I” “I” was in fact me. After we got married, his theme became. “Jesus and Shirley”. So everywhere he went to preach he talked about Shirley. One of the highlights in our marriage was accompanying him on trips to various places and events. Mitch was a very practical and down to earth person, and he was always invited to speak at many Marriage Retreats. He was an “open book” and had no reservations when he was addressing married couples. Now, I was very private, but quickly learned that I had to shelve that, because most of or all of the times, I was the subject of his illustrations at these events. We had such wonderful times together as we travelled to different places in Jamaica and abroad conducting these Marriage Retreats. I know that many couples have benefited from his wise instructions. Mitch had a passion for classical music and poetry. He had a flair for words, and he would always serenade me with love verses. He was not one to remember special dates like birthdays, so he made sure he brought me gifts all the year round. It was his greatest delight to shop for me when he travelled overseas, and he left nothing to the imagination. He would shop for just about everything that I wear, and he had such exquisite taste! Mitch was a family man, a community person, who believed in caring for and helping people. He gave to anyone that came to him with a need. Many times he and his family were left in need after giving to others. In the latter days of our life together, he would call me “Juliet” and I would call him “Romeo”. God gave us forty nine (49) beautiful years together. He wanted to have a grand celebration for our fifty years together, but we came short of the fifty. I’m so happy that I had the privilege to care for him during his illness over these years. He loved me, he loved his children, but he was ready to go home. And so I say: “I Love you dear, you have suffered long and you are now experiencing sweet rest in the presence of our Lord Jesus. I’ll join you some sweet day, so until then I’ll continue to treasure sweet memories of you.
Shirley
Order of Service Bethel Tabernacle UPCJ 29 James Ave, Ocho Rios, St. Ann Jamaica November 12th, 2021 at 10 AM
Officiating Ministers Bishop O’Garth McKoy Bishop Howard Francis Bishop Glenford Bingham Pastor Frank Kellier Pastor Linton Llewellyn Jr. Pastor Andrew Mitchell
Musicians Mr. Steve Mitchell, Son Mr. P. Williams
Musical Interlude Opening Statement 1st Moderator Asst. Supt. Bishop Howard Francis Praise and Worship First UPCJ, Highgate Opening Hymn In The Great Triumphant Morning
Led by Pastor James Richards
Opening Prayer
Rev. C. Russell, UPCJ National Secretary Treasurer
First lesson 1st Thessalonians 4 vs 13-18
Mr. Greig Stewart, Grand Nephew
Selection
Rev. Paul Walters, Calvary Painted Love’s Picture for Me
Tributes Selection
United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica - Rev. C. Russell Rev Joseph Lewis - Executive Presbyter, UPCJ Rev. Howard and Sis Marcella Francis, UPCJ The Williams Brothers - Bethel Tabernacle UPC
2nd Lesson Mr. Ian Forrest, Cousin-in-Law 1st Corinthians 15 vs 51-58 Tributes Executive Presbyter & CBI President, Pastor Norman McHugh Pastor Robert Ellis, Pentecostal Sanctuary Bishop Glenford Bingham, Faith Tabernacle Apostolic, Canada Selection All Saints Apostolic Choir, Spanish Town 2nd Moderator Bishop Glenford Bingham
4
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
Tributes Bishop O’Garth McKoy, National Superintendent UPCJ Reverend PV Reynolds, Former National Superintendet UPCJ Bishop Arthur Thomas, ORAC, New York Offering Dennis Rushton, Musical Selection Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell Memorial Fund Tributes
Rev. Dr. G. Oliver Barnes, Pastor, Faith Tabernacle UPC, Florida Bishop Dalbert Clarke - All Nations UPC - Cayman Islands Min. Gweneth Gallimore, Wife of Former National Supt, UPCJ
Medley of Rev Dr Zedekiah Mitchell’s Favorite Songs
First UPCJ, Highgate
Tributes Dr. Morais Guy, Member of Parliament Miss Yvonne Williams, Lyndale Housing Scheme Selection The Grizzle family Tributes Bishop Frank Otto, Linstead Pentecostal Tabernacle Bishop Howard Pusey, All Saints Apostolic Pastor & Sis Danvers and Luna UPCJ 3rd Moderator
Pastor Frank Kellier, Kings Chapel UPCJ
Tributes The Archer Family, family friend Sis Valerie Smith, family friend Min Calmalyn Perry - (representing 4 sister Churches) First UPCJ, Highgate - Sis Dawnette Duncan, Secretary Remembrance
Family
Selection Bro Steve Mitchell, Son Eulogy Children Introduction of National Superintendent Message
Bishop O’Garth McKoy, National Superintendent UPCJ
Prayer for the Family
Pastor Linton Llewellyn, Ebenezer Chapel UPCJ
Thank You
Elder Wayne Bingham, Son-in-Law
Closing Statement
Pastor Linton Llewellyn, Ebenezer Chapel UPCJ
Hymn Led by Pastor James Richards Heaven’s Jubilee
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
5
Congregational Hymns IN THE GREAT TRIUMPHANT MORNING In the great triumphant morning, When we hear the Bridegroom cry, And the dead in Christ shall rise, We’ll be changed to life immortal, In the twinkling of an eye, And meet Jesus in the skies. Chorus We shall all rise to meet Him, We shall all rise to greet Him, In the morning when the dead in Christ shall rise We shall all rise to meet Him, We shall all rise to greet Him, And shall have the marriage supper in the skies. In the great triumphant morning, What a happy time ’twill be, When the dead in Christ shall rise, When the Lord descends in glory,
Sets His waiting children free, And we meet Him in the skies. In the great triumphant morning, When the harvest is complete, And the dead in Christ shall rise, We’ll be crowned with life immortal, Christ and all the loved ones meet, In the rapture in the skies. In the great triumphant morning, All the kingdom we’ll possess, Then the dead in Christ shall rise, Reign as kings and priests eternal, Under Christ forever blest, After meeting in the skies.
HEAVEN’S JUBILEE Some glad morning we shall see, Jesus in the air Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing there will be, when the saints shall rise Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies Chorus Oh what singing, oh what shouting On that happy morning when we all shall rise Oh what glory, Hallelujah When we meet our blessed Savior in the skies
When with all that heavenly host, we begin to sing Singing in the Holy Ghost, how the heavens will ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ through ages long, heaven’s jubilee.
Seems that now I almost see, all the sainted dead Rising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly, to that jubilee.
6
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
Grave Side IN THE NEW JERUSALEM When the toils of life are over, And we lay our armor down, And we bid farewell to earth with all its cares, We shall meet and greet our loved ones, And our Christ we then shall crown, In the new Jerusalem. Chorus There’ll be singing, there’ll be shouting When the saints come marching home, In Jerusalem, in Jerusalem, Waving palms with loud hosannas As the King shall take His throne, In the new Jerusalem. Though the way is sometimes lonely, He will hold me with His hand, Through the testings and the trials I must go. But I’ll trust and gladly follow,
CHORUSES
In The Sweet Bye And Bye I’m Gonna Walk Those Streets Of Glory By And By When The Morning Comes I’ll Fly Away I Know Where I Am Going We Are All Going Up When We All Get To Heaven When I Get There Get On The Glory Road We Shall Have A New Name I’m Gonna Walk On Golden Streets
For sometime I’ll understand, In the new Jerusalem. When the last goodbye is spoken And the tear stains wiped away, And our eyes shall catch a glimpse of glory fair, Then with bounding hearts we’ll meet Him Who hath washed our sins away, In the new Jerusalem. When we join the ransomed army In the summer land above, And the face of our dear Savior we behold, We will sing and shout forever, And we’ll grow in perfect love, In the new Jerusalem.
ZEDDIE’S FAVORITES
I Am A One God Apostolic Tell Them I Am A One God Man So Long Bye Bye
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
7
Early Years On the 11th of February, 1934, Zedekiah Mitchell made his entrance into the world in Spanish Town St. Catherine. His Parents Ada Swaby and Edward Mitchell saw a handsome little baby boy, but unknowing to them, that same little baby boy had purpose beyond their wildest imaginations.
beautiful daughter, Pam. A few years later he started to learn watch repairing and was employed with Swiss Stores Ltd in the Watch Repairing Department from 1967 to 1970. He excelled at the Swiss Store Ltd. and was awarded a scholarship from his employer to study Horology part-time at CAST, now UTECH, in 1968. His course included Engineering Science and he was successfully promoted to 2nd year studies, but at some He spent the first two weeks of his life with his dear point left the course to move overseas. This did not mom Ada Swaby, after which he spent the rest of his materialize, however, but he was able to regain his job formative, adolescent and early adulthood with his at Swiss Stores Ltd. as he was in demand as a Watch father, Edward Mitchell (aka Mass Fowler or Mass Repairer. Eddie). Though he was named Zedekiah Mitchell at birth, he was raised being called Isaac Mitchell or “Mass His Conversion and Walk with God Eddie son”. He was taught many valuable lessons from Though he was a popular dancer and drinker and his Father who was a disciplinarian, and one of which was well known in his area, his life took a downward turn. He became unemployed and his health became was to “study his book hard”. a burden. It was one night, while he was on his way to commit suicide, that God led him to the All Saints Education, Employment and Family He attended the Barracks Primary School in Spanish Apostolic Church, the Church he used to stone. He just Town, now known as the Spanish Town Primary walked right in and went to the altar. Someone came School where he was also a member of the Boy’s Club. and prayed with him. That very night he accepted the While at the Boy’s Club, he did a test and from this, Lord in his life and decided to get baptized. The folks he was awarded a scholarship to Beckford and Smith did not take him seriously at first because they knew High School, now known as St. Jago High School of his lifestyle. This did not deter him. He had made where he attended from January 1949 to December up his mind, and so he was baptized in the Name of 1953. He was involved and excelled in athletics, cricket the Lord Jesus, he started a brand-new life, with no and football and represented his school in these sports. turning back. He would spend his nights sleeping on Because of his ability in Mathematics, he was recruited the church bench because he had nowhere to sleep, but to help a student, Linda, from the affluent community he was determined to live for the Lord. He recalled an and that relationship developed and bore two beautiful old sister that would get up on Sundays when it was daughters, Jennifer (Lass) and Janet. He eventually Testimony time and sing this chorus “Salvation pays”, dropped out of school because he was now a young and that song was a great source of motivation to him. father. He was employed at Araguanabo Textiles and There were many brethren who helped to shape him. further as a Bookkeeper at Caymanas Estate. After a Among them were Elder George Walters affectionately while he became sick as he developed Thrombophlebitis called Bro. George, Sis. McPhail, Sis. Ina Peart, to name in his right leg and was ultimately unemployed. He a few. They would spend hours in prayer and studying later met Maureen and the union produced another and discussing the Word.
Call to Ministry He vividly recalled the first time he actually felt the Call of God for the Ministry. It was the Sunday that Bishop Gallimore came to preach at All Saints. The message got hold of him that day and he wept uncontrollably at the altar. He had an insatiable thirst for more knowledge of the Word of God, and so he was drawn to listening to Bishop R. V. Reynolds, a great Bible teacher who Pastored Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street. He would travel to Wildman Street on the nights when Bishop had Bible Study just to hear him teach the Word. Subsequently he enrolled as a full-time student in the Caribbean Bible Institute in 1970, where he spent two years.
permanent place of worship was erected. He continued ministering and witnessing and the Church grew. Over the years, the UPC Organization asked him to assist with the work in Nutfield, BonnyGate, Geddes Town and Aleppo.
While at Bible School he was sent to Pastor the church at Luna. His time was spent between Bible School and having full responsibility for the Church at Luna. It was rather challenging to balance the two, because he missed out on classes at Bible School and even Exams.
Community He was advisor for various business places in Highgate and served as CXC Invigilator at St. Mary High School for a few years. He was a mediator, marriage officer and counsellor and sponsored many individuals to primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. He unofficially adopted quite a few persons and his home was home to quite a few persons over the years. There was never a time that the house did not have someone living there that needed assistance. His house was always open, so much so that the mentally challenged individuals of the community frequented it often for meal, bath and care.
Shirley While he was at Bible School, he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Sis. Shirley Tulloch, who was living with Bishop and Sis. P.V. Reynolds at that time. His batch mates made up a song on him: “Run Mitchie Run, Mitchie go into Bishop’s kitchen and take out his righteous chicken”. They were married on July 15, 1972 and she joined him in the ministry. This union produced 5 children in quick succession: Karen, Cheryl, Steve, Nadine and Andrew who have given them 7 grandchildren with the 8th, a boy, due on November 4th. Ministry While living in St. Andrew he got the call of God to pioneer in Highgate. He kept hearing the word “Highgate’’ each time he prayed”. He initially thought there was someone in the community who was named Highgate who needed to be saved. He eventually began to ask people if they knew who was called Highgate. A group of men showed him from the hills of St. Andrew that there was a community in St. Mary that was visible in the night with lights that they knew of that was called Highgate. He visited the area and started the House to House Ministry. They then had a big service in the Market House that became a catalyst for the Ministry in Highgate. That service had huge support from Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street. They then rented the Lodge Hall and started having services in the Lodge Hall with just himself and his wife as members. After a while people started trickling in. Years later, the property in Harmony Hall was purchased and a
While Pastoring in Highgate, he started a Bible School at his assembly that included members from other Assemblies. He also taught at Caribbean Bible Institute (CBI), Bible Schools at South Camp Road, Linstead, All Saints Apostolic, Belfield, and ORAC in New York.. He travelled extensively to conduct Marriage Seminars, preach and teach and support the work of God in other countries.
Health Dr. Mitchell has been plagued with various illnesses over the years, including diabetes and heart disease, but God has been faithful. He has been homebound for the past 2 years and his wife and daughter, Cheryl, dedicated their time in caring for him. He, along with other family members, contracted COVID-19 virus. On the night of the 9th, his condition deteriorated and while his family attended to him and was praying with him, he became unresponsive and then transitioned in the early hours of September 10, surrounded by Cheryl, Nadine, and Andrew, joined by Karen and Steve (virtually), wife, Shirley and all his grandchildren. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell, affectionately called Isaac, Mitch, Zeddie, Buggy, Daddy, Grandpa, Uncle, Pastor, Bishop will be greatly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, sister, nieces, nephews, host of other relatives, church family, community members and friends.
A Girl’s Dad “God gave you to me twice”. Dad would say this to me at almost every conversation. He was referring to near death experiences for me as a child that were only reversed by prayer and insistent faith in God that led to miracles. I got burns to my face and there is absolutely no evidence of this. Mom said he would religiously use escallion to rub the scars until it disappeared…he did not want his ‘beautiful daughter’ to grow with scars. At my graduation from University, through a co-worker and batchmate, my parents scored tickets to sit with the dignitaries. When my name was called to receive my degree, my dad could be heard throughout the entire auditorium shouting, “that’s my daughter!”. He made sure I understood my worth and worked to build my self-esteem. “My beautiful, pretty Daughter”. He was insistent that I should not marry until I had at least my 1st degree and have purchased some furniture and other household items - be independent. Dad was very involved with my children. During my 1st pregnancy, my dad would make fish tea every single day, as he wanted his grandson to be smart. Fresh fish straight from the beach, every vegetable possible, including beetroot, would be included in that fish tea. When my daughter was born, he travelled to Canada and spent a month helping to take care of his Granddaughter, whom he christened. I made a solo trip to Jamaica once when dad was very sick. I was asleep in the Master Bedroom, when my mom called me to dad’s bedside. He was unresponsive and as usual, she kept pleading the Blood of Jesus and kept anointing him until he was responsive some 10 minutes later. When dad opened his eyes and saw me, he said he got a message for me. He ministered to me for over 15 minutes, not knowing that what he spoke to was what I was struggling with at the time. This showed how connected he was to His God. He would send video messages giving updates on himself, sharing his thoughts and as per usual encouraging and reassuring me of his love. During the pandemic, he would video call and I would set the phone where he could see me work and he would spend the time chatting and watching me work until he fell asleep. 2 months before he transitioned, he told me that his time was drawing near so I should make sure I call him every day. I love my dad very dearly and his memory will live with me forever. His legacy has been passed on and there is so much on record for the grandchildren and generations to come, to experience this great man, who, despite not having a smooth childhood, did everything possible to ensure ours was smooth and full of love. Dad, we will keep the Mitchell name blazing! You ran well, you did well. I am very proud of you. You were the best dad I could ever have!!
10
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
A Father’s Love Many people are aware of the volatile relationship I had with my dad, but what they fail to understand was that volatility was a result of the intense love that we both had for each other. As a child growing up my father and I were extremely close but as I grew into my teenage years, I was not the calm person that my older sister was I had too much of my father’s personality which caused us to bump heads a lot – the rebel in me was strong and my dad and I no longer knew how to communicate with each other. Though in public he would voice his disappointment, and I would act out, the love never dwindled. He never compromised or gave me a free pass. My dad taught us all how to love and appreciate the beauty of life and to accept people for who they are, not for who we would like them to be. We were taught to lean on the grace of God and aspire to be Christlike, being the best version of ourselves each day that we were blessed to wake up with breath in our lungs and life in our body. He taught us the value of family bond, love and togetherness. As my dad and I grew older, we were able to mend our differences and communicate and reason as adults. As dad got older and his health began to fail, I was entrusted with being his caregiver, a responsibility that people looking in from the outside would consider a burden, but to me those were some of the best years of our relationship. We were able to talk, share, laugh and sometimes cry together. A few days before his passing he called me to his bedside and told me how much he loved me – every time I reflect on those words it brings tears to my eyes because I understood how much he really loved me, which is reminiscent of the love God has for us all – regardless of how much I broke his heart or disappointed him, he never once gave up on me or stopped loving me. I feel lost and broken without my dad. I feel as if someone reached into my being and stole my purpose, and I am fighting to keep myself together because I know that is what he would want me to do. I miss his voice, his smile, even his miserableness, but I give thanks for the experiences we shared together, the good and the bad. I know he was ready to go, and we know he is now resting in the arms of Jesus. We don’t grieve because of his passing, because he ran a great race and kept the faith; we grieve because we’ve lost one of the most amazing leader and teacher to ever walk this land. He was not perfect, but he was my daddy who gave us the love and guidance he wished he received growing up. Cheryl Mitchell-Shannon, Daughter
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
11
My Biggest Inspiration As I reflect there are numerous memories I have of my dad. I am privileged to be born to the best, most loving, caring parents you can find. I have yet to meet a better human being than daddy. My dad and I share a bond that even with his passing cannot be severed. As a little boy growing up in Highgate, my dad and I spent a lot of time together. I would follow him everywhere he went. I would go with him to the Central District board meetings and whenever he was invited out to preach or teach I was with him. My dad could hardly go anywhere without taking me as I would cry so much if I was told I couldn’t go with him. He would eventually say “alright get ready you can come”. During those times I got to share with and see his passion which was preaching, teaching, and studying the Word of God. I remember growing up wanting to be a Pastor just like my dad. When I attended primary school, my teacher would ask ‘what is your career choice?’ I would always proclaim I wanted to be a minister of religion as I wanted to be just like my hero, dad. I can remember how much a happy and fun place home was. With my brother and three sisters, we were the happiest kids in the world. Dad made the home a special place filled with fun, laughter, games you name it, anything to entertain us and make us happy. My dad was and will always be my biggest inspiration along with mommy. My dad lived an exemplary life, one that I could emulate, a good man, a loving and caring husband to my mom and the best father one could wish to have. I developed a passion for music at the tender age of 4 and this was a result of daddy’s love for music. My ability to play musical instruments was passed down from my mom who is a wonderful musician but the passion I have for music came from dad. My dad was my biggest supporter, always letting me know how special I am, how I can achieve anything and would make me believe I was the best at anything I would do. He gave words of wisdom to me and I gained a wealth of knowledge from him. His love for God and people was so evident, he would deny himself to make us happy. I was blessed to be baptized by my dad. He was the officiating Minister at my wedding, and he blessed all three of my children. I miss discussing the Bible with him. My dad was a Bible scholar with in-depth knowledge and interpretation of the scriptures, an anointed speaker and as a pastor he was one of a kind, very long suffering. He had a burden for souls and would cry when anyone backslid, a real shepherd. I miss him dearly as he would always call to check up on us, but he is in a better place. Love you dad Steve
12
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
God’s Blessing to Me Daddy you are the epitome of what love is. You love unreservedly and unconditionally. You’ve demonstrated that to your children all our years. You loved us so much so that whenever one of us is hurt we try to keep it from you knowing how it would affect you. Stern but yet so approachable, you were a real family man and would always intreat us to keep it tight. You believed in discipline and would not spare the rod and so would rebuke us when we do wrong. You were not the one to compromise and would always give balanced advice. You were never the one to ‘beat around the bush’ but tell it like it is. At times these words seem harsh and as a child it seemed foolish, but they were always given in love. What I have come to learn is that these words almost always prove true. You made home the place it should be and where I look forward to being. Your penmanship (cursive) was beautiful and I would look forward to you writing my name on all my school books. You would always encourage us to do well academically (the dreaded Common Entrance and CXC) and would let us know that regardless of the outcome you loved us still. For those of us who went unto further studies you provided the funds even though it was taxing for you. I can remember for my first job I did not get paid for almost three pay cycles and you provided funding to sustain me during that period. It was a privilege to know I could call on you at all times in your capacity as father and because of that selflessness, I hardly did. Regardless, I have some measure of independence and it’s mostly attributable to you. I loved being in your presence and would look forward to weekends when we would spend some time talking or watching some clips of preaching, teaching and sometimes boxing or tennis. Most importantly, what I loved most about you was your relationship with the Lord and the love you had for his Word. I have never met another like you, and God used you to make it easier for me to better understand and appreciate what love is. You are truly God’s blessing to me, and I am happy to know that you were with us and surrounded with love right to the end, as you desired. You knew before you became ill with COVID that your time of departure was near and tried to prepare us, but we would never be ready to let you go (maybe selfish of us) but the Lord saw it fit to take you now. You are now with your lover, for to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Not having you around is very difficult to come to terms with but God remains faithful and provides strength and comfort each day. We also have treasured memories and sound words of wisdom from you to reflect on and to help us the remaining time we have here on earth until we meet again. Nadine (Daddy Jing Jing)
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
13
A Man of Unrelenting Faith Value of family. I am convinced that I have experienced what God intended when he instituted family as a unit. My father taught and demonstrated the true meaning of family. Dad was away often teaching but he spent quality time with family. He had family meetings so we could openly discuss concerns so we can improve as members of the family and was the first to say sorry or point out things he could do differently. He played all the games of our time with us, helped in our studies, told us what to expect in life even beyond his death and let us know whatever happens (boy you are a Mitchell and you must succeed). He taught me how to be a man, a husband, a father and a son-in-law. Love, kindness and respect Dad taught us how to love self and others. There was never a moment that we felt short of love (even when we were scolded). We felt love when Dad had material things to give and never felt it less when he had no material things to give. We saw daily his love and devotion to his dear Shirley, us as children, the church and members of the community whether they were members of our assembly or not and whether they were of unsound mind or not. Mad men and women and rejects of society ate at our table, sat in our settee, bathed at our house and were able to come by our house at will. I saw Dad love when he was loved and love when he was hurt and went out of his way to care for and show compassion and love all. We saw him weep and bawl uncontrollably for days and weeks when someone backslid. He never gave up on people. Faith and Relationship with Jesus Christ: Dad was a man of unrelenting faith. He always emphasized that a relationship with Jesus is most important, and that quality time must be spent to nurture the same. Whilst he spent a lot of time studying the word of God there was always that careful and quality lock-away time in the presence of God. We observe firsthand the supernatural and miraculous operation of the Holy Spirit. Faith for him was a battlefield and irrespective of what was happening (sickness, struggles, soul winning, need etc.) he always felt confident through faith in God. His faith was never determined by past experiences that some would consider failure. Dad never feared death and believed in the miraculous power of Jesus Christ to heal the sick and raise dead even before the rapture of the saints. I learned through these observations that whatever the outcome of my situations matched against my expectations that nothing in life’s experience diminishes God or his ability to come through and that the level of my relationship with God though founded in faith will not be determined by the outcome of my situations. Resilience At an early age Dad threw a rubber ball on the wall several times while altering height, distance and force of each throw. Then he said son you must have resilience and whatever life throws at you, be a rubber ball and bounce back irrespective of how small or great the impact. He said that in the best of us is also the worst of us as it relates to humans and that the arm of flesh will fail but that no matter what happens you must love, forgive and bounce back. I will forever cherish the love, joy, wisdom and experience God blessed me to enjoy with the best father in the world. Andrew Mitchell, Son
14
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
The Kindest Man You were the wisest man I have ever known. I could write books containing the knowledge and wisdom gleaned from you. I especially enjoyed the moments when there was no one there but the two of us. You taught me about life, like a natural father would his son. I would at times wonder if you remembered that I was actually your son-in-law. I will miss those moments. You were authentic. Neither position nor possession affected your genuineness. There was no pretense in you. You taught me to be myself. I can still hear your admonition to be careful not to try and preach like anyone else, but to be myself. You reminded me that I should always make sure that I get back up one more time than the number of times I would have fallen. You were the kindest man I have ever known. You were self-sacrificing. You gave and encouraged us to always seek to help where there is a need and we are able to help. You told us that we should not wait for someone in need to ask. You often quoted Job 29:16 “I was a father to the poor: and the cause which I knew not I searched out.” Thank you for the moments after Sunday services, when I was about to catch the bus to return to college in Kingston. You would shake my hand, but it wasn’t just a pastor greeting a young church brother, you wanted to discreetly grease my palm by passing some cash to me. There were times when I didn’t have much more than what you gave. You were passionate in your love for God, and eagerly anticipated the day when you would be with the Lord for evermore. I can see you dancing in the presence of the Lord; I can see you pushing to the front in order to be as closer to the Lord as possible. The joy I know you are experiencing warms my heart and fills me with anticipation. Though it hurts so much not having you around physically, you live forever in my heart. Now, I understand what the writer meant when he wrote: “‘Tis better to have loved and lost, Than never to have loved at all.” Until the end of my days on earth, there will be a void in my heart, but I don’t want to imagine what my life might have been if you had never been a part of it. Thanks for all you have done for me and been to me. See you in heaven soon, Daddy. Love you! Wayne Bingham, Son-In-Law
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
15
Tribute To My Dad I met dad over 26 years ago. He embraced me immediately in the family. He was very special and was a caring person and no one that came to his gate, (even the mad men and women) were turned away as he readily accepted them, talked with them, fed them and clothed them. Dad was just a people person. He had this unique way of making you feel extra special. He would always compliment and encourage you in your pursuits. He dared you to dream. In my days of going to camp, we looked forward to the time when Pastor Mitchell was coming to teach. There was always excitement in his sessions as dad was known to tell it like it is. He was always full of advice about life, marriage, children and just about everything. He loved the word of God in a way that is unmatched and expounded it with joy and excitement. Many a time I would sit and listen in fascination as he passionately discussed Bible with his friends excitedly. He loved God. He loved the word. He loved to teach the word. He poured so much of God and himself into others. He encouraged you to believe in yourself and what God can accomplish through you. He encouraged you to be better, to do more, to want more, to accomplish more. Whenever the grandchildren faced any challenge or adversity he would tell them “you are a Mitchell.” He told you to face life with a rubber ball mentality. You will get knocked down, but you can bounce right back up. He was always full of stories and my husband would often share the fun times they had with him growing up. Our children looked forward to holidays so they could go and spend time with him. He loved when we all came home and often whenever we were ready to leave he would hold my hand and say “keep this thing tight, keep it together.” Dad gave of whatever he had to others. He shared himself, his family, his home, his wisdom, his store. He would often say he was a blessed man and it was better to be a blessed man than a rich man. We have been tremendously blessed by this great man of God who has left us with a rich legacy. To so many, he was a great teacher, a great leader, a pastor and so much more. For us, more than anything, he was our dad. We love and miss him very much. I can hear him say as he did so often in the recent months before his passing “come on here beloved. To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord.” Love you dad Calciana Mitchell, Daughter-in-Law
16
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
Tanya’s Tribute to Dad. Dad the very first time I saw you was at Bishop Eldemyer Green’s Celebration of Life Service. The moderator called you up to pray and something clicked in my heart when I heard you praying, it’s hard to explain (love at first sight?). I thought that was the best sincere prayer I’ve heard from a Minister. It really sounded like you were talking to your best friend with earnest expectation. Then by coincidence (or was it fate) Sir Andrew came and stood right beside me at the side door at Grant’s Pen UPC totally focused on you of course. It was not very long after Steve started talking to me about his little brother. God knew my heart that I would not have said yes to any proposition, so He started to soften my heart long before I finally met my dear Andrew. I remember when Andrew took me to your house to officially meet you, you drew me aside to ask me some ‘big people things’ I knew nothing about. I was so confused because I was wondering if I was supposed to know the answers to those questions before myself and Andrew started Courting. After we got married, my first sleepover at the house, Dad you were up all night talking in tongues, walking about the house with your Bible and notebook in hand and praying. I was in awe; does this Man of God even sleep? Your relationship with your God was inspiring and worth emulating. As we grew together for 9 years each time you saw me you would always say to me “you’re a beautiful girl”. That always made me blush and feel very special to you. In order to reinforce your love for me you made sure to say it even when my face and body was contoured because I was with child. Loving you is easy because you are a beautiful person so my children grew up to love and cherish you too. You asked me a question a few months ago “why is it that we don’t want you to die”. That was a hard question but essentially we just didn’t want to feel this extremely deep void and sadness that your passing has created in our lives. I know you would have wanted to stay longer with us to meet your new grandson but heaven sounded sweeter all the time. I’ll love you eternally. Tanya Mitchell, Daughter-in-Law
❤
Daddy. My motivator, greatest cheerleader, mentor and the one who saw greatness in me even before I knew myself. Throughout my years at college, I was asked on various occasions why I didn’t study yet things seem easy for me? My answer was always the same, Daddy told me I was bright and so I believed it. This was who Pastor Zedekiah Mitchell was about building hopes and dreams of others while even if you didn’t have a dream of your own, he would have a dream of greatness for you. He had an uncanny way of guiding and mentoring you which could never be replicated. It is often said by psychologist that your strongest memories are those that are attached to pain. Daddy changed that narrative because my strongest and most precious memories are those in which my father was making me laugh and being happy. Much of what I have learnt in terms of being a man I learnt from a man who became my father when I was 17 years old. I am still learning yet what is true is that my principles and worldview have been largely shaped by your influence. Christopher Walker, Son
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
17
Our dear Grandpa, You were very special to us. We love you. We would always look forward to holidays when we would get the opportunity to spend lots of time with you. You taught us how to be responsible and would often give us “work” then pay us for what we did. We cannot forget the many dominoes games you played with us and the times you sat us down to “reason”. You would teach us about God. You always saw greatness in us, rejoiced with us in our accomplishments and encouraged us to use our musical talent. We miss passing through your room to check on you and help you with whatever you needed whether it was to get something or to fix the tv or make you more comfortable in your bed. We are saddened that you won’t be around to see the men we will become through God but we know you are in a better place David and Jonathan Mitchell, Grand Sons
My Grandpa is selfless and is fun to be around. I always look forward to my trips to Jamaica so I can spend time with him. He had a special name for me from as young as I can remember, ‘Banana Muscle Boy’. He would tease me on being skinny. We would compare our muscles and his was always bigger than mine and I would sometimes put bottles or other items in the shirt sleeve to make it look bigger. On my last video call with him I told him I was not Banana Muscle Boy anymore. He laughed and said “I know, you could beat me up now”. He has played ball with me, and I remember one time he was very weak and could not stand much. He did not let that stop him. He created a game where he could lay on the ground and still play ball with me. One summer I travelled to Jamaica without my family, and this allowed me to have good quality time with him. We watched a lot of basketball together and he would break down the game for me. I promised him that I would go to the NBA and I am going to continue to work towards this. The atmosphere at home was always warm and peaceful. He loved animals and birds and music and that made the home so peaceful and serene…birds chirped, instrumental music played throughout the house. He is always giving jokes and life lessons. He always encouraged me to remain a Christian and to continue to develop my musical talent, that I should always push to be the best at whatever I do. I won’t let you down Grandpa. I really love my Grandpa and I am going to miss him terribly. But I know he is ok now and not in any more pain. Matthew Bingham
18
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
My grandpa is caring, kind, considerate, funny and loving. I loved to sit on the couch and watch TV with him especially basketball and wrestling games. I love that he was always there for me and he always will be. I am glad I was able to be with him when he was in the hospital and that I was able to do something to help him. I tested his sugar and when he was in pain from them moving the bandage on his foot I wanted to stay with him to comfort him but my Mom said it was too much and that I should stay outside.
😊
He was on my online birthday party in 2020 and he made up a song and sing to me. (I love my Granddaughter, I love my Granddaughter I was so, so happy. Grandpa is the only one that calls me Mikel and I will always remember him calling me that. I wish I could have seen him one last time but because of COVID our country was shut down and we could not travel, but I was able to video chat with him often. He always made me laugh and feel special. I am going to miss my Grandpa so bad. I wish he was still here. I love him very much! Mikayla Bingham, 12 years old GRANDPA My Grandpa was loving, caring, nice and special. He as an amazing person. He was very nice to people. Now everyone is sad because we all miss him so much because we all loved him so much. I miss having fun with him and helping him. He cared for my brothers, my cousins and I. He loved and cared us all and we loved and cared for him. A lot of people knew him and now they are crying because they miss him too. We will all remember him. Gabrielle Mitchell, 9 years old I love my Grandpa. He is a handsome man. My grandpa is nice. He is so nice. I will play with you Grandpa! Joanna Mitchell, 7 years old
My Grandpa What I love about my Grandpa is that he loves me, and he likes to play with me so much and he is a very nice man! And he used to be a boy and now he is a big man so that’s why I love my Grandpa and I am his favorite. I love my Grandpa Kelecia Mitchell, 5 years old
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
19
Doctor Zedekiah Isaac Mitchell Daddy Mitch/ Pastor Mitch/ Buggy Top/ The Herbalist “Jesus I am ready, take me home from this suffering,” those are a few words he would utter when in excruciating pain for several years, but God was not ready for him yet. Finally, your request has been made by the Lord of Host Jesus Christ. Who is Pastor Mitchell you may ask? He’s a father, Mentor and teacher to many hailing from several communities. He is a Lecturer that is known for Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth, a strong believer of what he teaches, a counselor and a selfless person who devotes his life to giving and assisting others. Words can never express my gratitude and appreciation for the investment that you have done in my life. You are my father, my motivator and my biggest supporter. As we celebrate your life of incomparable great deeds and accomplishments. We need not to worry as you are now in a better place singing and dancing with our saviour. Even though you’re no longer here on earth with us, your words of wisdom and legacies will live on for generations. I am overwhelmed to have met you in this accursed life where you have always been optimistic and highlighted the positive in every scenario. Your many life lessons have conditioned me into someone I never thought I would be today. I wish you had more time on earth to see the Great Man I will be in the future, but I know you’ll be watching from heaven. Your knowledge and interest in the word of God marvelled me on numerous occasion, I’ve seen you in be bed all day feeling weak, nothing given to you would make you feel better until you get a call or a visit and where a scripture was mentioned that would be an instant Energizer. When you had no money, you would say “Jamarley let’s crow and call some money,” and so said so done. “Coo coo coo, come here money,” and with faith, within 48 hrs you got calls saying you should pick up money at particular locations. The great herbalist Doctor Mitchell! At 2-3 AM you are up experimenting with all sorts of plants making fish tea with all that can be found in the house. You would even go outside those hours to get guava leaves, soursop leaves and orange leaves. There’s a lot more to say but others will remind us of the great person you are, your legacy will never end. I appreciate your support, encouragement and motivation to be better than I was yesterday. Rest well Dad and enjoy your new journey with God and your born-again brethren. Your Son Jamarlay Martin
20
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
Young People’s Champion Tribute to a Great Man of God from the Youth Department… Our Pastor was a great friend, he was compassionate, trustworthy and a true man of example. He made everyone feel special, beautiful, appreciated and loved. Pastor was a mentor. He was always speaking into our lives what he knew God wanted to do. He made all the young people feel very appreciated and important. We had a very special relationship with him and he made sure we knew this every time. We always say he was the champion of the youths. No one can fill the gap he left. He was a father figure to so many of us. He made us look into ourselves and believe that there is more to us and more to contribute. Quote - When I got saved and heard him minister I found out who I am and what I am meant to do on this Earth. I believe Pastor spoiled me. Out of the blue he would just call to say he loved me. The level of spiritualty he breathed into our life no one will ever be able to fill. His footprint in our life will never be filled. He knew how to connect with everybody. Our Pastor helped us to find our identity in life and in the church. He always put himself in our places or our shoes. He was the most selfless man, very giving of his love and his knowledge and always encouraged us to reach our full potential. Now that we are mature, we know for a fact that many of the lessons that our Pastor taught us are valid and though we were stubborn at times we can really see the value of what he was really instilling. Our Pastor was passionate about souls, so much so that many times he got very sick over the burdens of the lost. We could make the connection between him and God in the sense that if he was affected so much about the souls of the lost how much more God. His teaching has helped us and prepared us to face and deal with so many challenges that we have faced and will face in life. We saw him as a man that was passionate about the word of God. We are grateful we got to know him. He loved people and no status in life could cause him not to love us. His life makes us want to continue to live for God. Our Pastor was a lover of people no matter the age. As young person’s he took some of us to places for the first time to see and experience places that our parents couldn’t take us. He was never too sick to speak into our lives. He told us that speaking the Word always transcends his mind outside of his pain. He spoke the word of God with wonder and life. The word of God came alive, was a medicine and a true balm to his soul. His faith was paramount to none. There was nothing he believed that God could not do. The Grace of God he believed was God himself, his life and teaching lifted us to another level in God. He will be sorely missed.
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
21
22
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
Celebrating the Life of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah Mitchell
23
Acknowledgments “The family of Rev. Dr. Zedekiah (Isaac) Mitchell, Mitch, Buggy, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took part in the celebration of the life of our dear dad and husband. He was loved by so many and this was shown through the prayers of support, phone calls, messages while he was here and extended to us in his passing. This has helped us tremendously in our grieving. He is now dancing with the angels, resting in the arms of his lover.” We would lilke to make special mention to some individuals that were integral in his care and comfort throughout the years Dr. Ylurry Wade Dr Mitchell Dr. Morais Guy Nurse Christine Williams-Duncan Mr. Kirk Lee Mr. David Henry Members of Lyndale Housing Scheme 1st UPC of Highgate and sister Churches
We are grateful to those who assisted in the Celebration of his life and legacy • Bishop McKoy and UPCJ • Bishop Thomas, Pastor Miguel Garrick, ORAC and International Team • Bishop Pusey, All Saints and the Jamaican team • Bethel Tabernacle, Ocho Rios Church • Bishop Bingham, Bishop Ellis and the Bible School Memorial team • Min Tyrell Morgan, Ralmar Team
PALL BEARERS Mr. Steve Mitchell Jnr Pastor Andrew Mitchell Mr. Christopher Walker Elder Wayne Bingham Mr. Jamarly Martin Mr. Roosevelt Shannon Mr. Kevin Campbell Mr. Kirk Lee Min. Gladstone Taylor
Professional services provided by Jonah’s Mortuary 876.387.5711
Son Son Son Son-in-Law Son-in-Law Family friend Family friend Highgate UPC
Interment White Hall Cemetry