Message from Pastor Frederick L. Bowers III It is a privilege for me to greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am thankful to God for this special occasion of celebrating 50 years as pastor of His precious people. The years have passed so quickly since November 1961. To God be the glory, for all He has done for us. Everything that is and everything that will be through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I am grateful to God, and the people of God for the opportunity to have served fifty years in the life of this branch of Zion called the Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church. God continues to do marvelous things in our lives; where of, we are glad. The miraculous work of our God has presented this very day in our existence. Through pressing financial events, through fire, and many other encounters, our God did prevail. God provided Rev. and Mrs. H.J. Trapp and the Thankful Baptist Church family, during our fire dilemma. We were blessed every Sunday to gather at eleven a.m. and through the week we were in continuous service. Thank God for those who greeted us with warm hospitality and comforted our abidance. We give thanks to God for all those who would be used to His glory. This message is another testimony to a good and faithful God; who by means of His precious Son, Jesus Christ, made it possible for us to become children of the most high King. He is our Father, and we glory in His wonderful promises. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor. He hath sent me to heal the broken hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and the recovering sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord, this is what I have endeavored to do. After 50 years, I am as committed now as I was in the beginning to serve for the purpose of glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ, and reaching out for the souls of men, women, and children. I would like to express my appreciation to the Rev. Dr. William H. Shaw (the immediate past President of the Nation Baptist Convention) and the White Rock Baptist Church; for being a part of this special occasion. Also to our friend and brother William Savin (Savin Funeral Home); who has helped us so many times during our time of bereavement. We certainly thank God for how you have extended yourself in supply of our palms; the calendars for the new year, and all the things you do in supporting the family of Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church. To the leadership of our congregation; the Deacon and Trustee Board, and the entire congregation, thank you for your love and support. I also thank God for the love, support and care of my wife Sarah; my children Frederick IV, Gail, and Shawn. God has truly blessed us, and I love you much. Special thanks to my eldest son Frederick; who has taken on this effort with ferver and diligence. To the 50th Pastoral Anniversary Committee thank you likewise. You have been a blessing. It takes special people like you to work together for a cause; and when that cause is for the good of them that love God; it all works together. Thank God for you and may the Lord continue to bless you real good. Fervently, Rev. F.L.Bowers III 1
Pastoral History Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church was spiritually moved to call Reverend Frederick L. Bowers, III to become the new minister in November of 1960 and in March of 1961, he was installed as Pastor. Under his dynamic leadership, his ministry attracted people from all over the city and the church bloomed spiritually, numerically and financially. The church became a central place of worship and was filled to capacity with joyous services and fellowship. Pastors and their congregations from all over the city and surrounding tristate area joined in our services. Pastor Bowers has been wonderfully assisted by his family. His wife, Sarah C. Bowers, was a musician for the gospel chorus and has accompanied Rev. Bowers in his beautiful musical renditions. She currently serves as president of the Deaconess Board. Rev. Bowers’ daughter, Gail, sings on the mass choir and is president of the Legal Aid Committee. Both of his sons, Shawn and Frederick, IV; have been called to the preaching ministry and are ordained. Frederick, IV is an accomplished musician who excels on the piano and organ. He currently plays for the Male Chorus and is the Minister of Music at Monumental Baptist Church. Under the leadership of Rev. Bowers, some of the church’s earliest achievements include the purchasing of an organ and piano, new carpeting and pews, air conditioning, stained glass window restoration and a church van. Moliston Manor, a four unit dwelling was also acquired. This dwelling was completely renovated and housed people at a very affordable rent along with three other homes in the immediate area. In 1967, the church was destroyed by fire. It was devastating but Pastor Bowers encouraged the congregation to never give up hope, but to continue in faith. Greater Ebenezer was invited by the Late Rev. Trapp, Pastor of Thankful Baptist Church, to use their chapel until the church was renovated, which took six months. Their provisions made it possible for the church to continue worship services. Because of Rev. Bowers’ vision and encouragement, the church completed payment of the mortgage at this location. Pastor Bowers, a great man of God, preached without compromise and continued to 2
inspire those he met and the church membership grew. After returning to Ontario Street, there were occasions where the sanctuary was wall to wall with people and standing room only in the vestibule. The church worshipped on Ontario Street for 27 years and enjoyed many happy occasions. Pastor Bowers’ vision became a congregational dream and the ever-growing membership required a larger edifice. On a cold day in January 1985, Pastor Bowers and members of the Official Board stepped into a cold dark building at 3200 North Broad. A ray of light shimmered through the beautiful stained glass windows and caught the pastor’s attention. A window with Christ on it enhanced the edifice and Pastor Bowers said it was the Lord beckoning the church to make this building the next church home. On September 8, 1985, Greater Ebenezer moved into a new church home. The church has been completely renovated and the mortgage payment was satisfied. Under Rev. Bowers’ inspired leadership, the church purchased three properties on Allegheny Avenue, each of which have been renovated and offered affordable housing for members. The Deacon Eddy Manor, one of the properties, is a facility that still serves as a place for the Seasoned Citizens to hold weekly meetings and activities. In1990, the church purchased a property at 1427 West Allegheny Avenue. The mission for Hope and Center for Learning was opened as an outreach program; the property was later sold and is still serving as an outreach program for boys. The Center for Learning continued to operate under the supervision of Mrs. Bowers for ten years until June 2002. Under Pastor Bowers’ leadership, several ministers have been called to God’s work, many whom have gone on to pastor their own churches. Rev. Frederick L. Bowers, III has lead the Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church for the past 50 years and has strived to teach, preach and demonstrate Christian love to all people. On April 23, 1983, a lifetime call to pastor Greater Ebenezer was extended to and accepted by Pastor Bowers and he continues to serve the Greater Ebenezer Family and the community. 3
Ministers Called and Ordained Under Pastor Bowers Rev. Otis Brandon- Associate Pastor, Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church Reverend Gertrude Allen -Deceased Reverend Norman Bailey - Deceased Rev. Fred Payne- pastured Gospel Temple until his demise Rev. Williams Starks- Retired Pastor of Community Baptist of Chester Rev. Allen Jones, Pastor of New Gethsemane Baptist Church of South Philadelphia Rev. Paul Strothers, currently pastor of his own church Rev. David Allen Rev. Shawn Bowers Rev. Frederick L. Bowers, IV Evangelist Marie West Evangelist Mary Odom Evangelist Ruth Jackson- Deceased Minster Anthony Johnese Minster Harriet King Rev. Williams Parker Rev. Steven Brown
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In Loving Memory of my Parents
Deacon Frederick L. Bowers II
Lottie M. Bowers
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Congratulations Pastor Frederick L. Bowers, III on your 50th Pastoral Anniversary We praise God for your life of service for the past 50 years. Your love for the Lord, family and church family has shown down through the many years as you preached, taught the Word and brought souls to Christ. Thank you for all that you have invested in our family. We salute you for the 50 years you have rendered faithful, dedicated, loyal, humble and valuable service to our church family, our family, the community and beyond. BY God’s grace, you have reached this momentous milestone at Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church. We will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in our mouths. We thank God who allowed the Bower’s Family to be a part of the Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church. May God Continue to bless you as you continue your spiritual journey in Him. We love you, Pastor, Your Loving Family Wife Sarah, Son Frederick, Daughter Gail, and Son Shawn. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and he delighted in his way. Psalm 37:23 To God Be The Glory 6
Mrs. Leola Conner requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of her daughter Sarah Leola Theresa to Mr. Frederick LeRoy Bowers 3rd on Saturday evening, the sixth of September Nineteen hundred and fifty-two at six o’clock Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Fifty-sixth and Nine Streets Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Third Senatorial District
Congratulates
Reverend Frederick L. Bowers, III Pastor, Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church on his
50th Pastoral Anniversary
Saturday, March 12, 2011 and Sunday, March 13, 2011 Celebrating 50 years of service to the Lord and Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church, Reverend Frederick L. Bowers, III has been chosen to exalt Him and spread His word and lead the church and this community with strong religious conviction and compassion. May our Lord and Savior continue to consecrate the parishioners of Greater Ebenezer and bestow His richest blessings upon Reverend Bowers, III in his efforts to guide others into the path of righteousness. God Bless. www.senatorkitchen.com 9
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Pastor Bowers,
Congratulations on your 50th Pastoral Anniversary. The Bible says in Ephesians 4:11-12, He gave some apostles; and some prophets and some evangelists and some pastors and teachers; for the work of the ministry for edifying of the body of Christ. For 50 years, God has used you to preach His Word to us, to baptize us, to give godly counsel and to even speak final words over those who have already gone home to be with Him. We thank you for the love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance you have shown toward the family of Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church over the years. It has been our pleasure to serve as representatives of the congregation in facilitating the celebratory events held in your honor and in thanksgiving to God for the leadership He has provided for our spiritual growth over these 50 years. Thank you for your distinguished and dedicated service. The 50th Pastoral Anniversary Committee
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CONGRATULATIONS Pastor Frederick L. Bowers III and First Lady Sarah C. Bowers On Your 50th Anniversary as Pastor Celebration We the Deacons-Deaconess Board wish you God’s blessings as dedicated Pastor, Teacher, Guidance Counselor, Devoted Shepherd and compassionate friend. Your love for the Lord and us has shown down through the many years as you taught and preached the Word of God. We love you Pastor and our prayers are forever with you.
Deacon George Ford - Chairman Deacon Clinton Baker Deacon Leonard Greene Deacon Edgar Garrett-Emeritus Deaconess Sarah Bowers-President Deaconess Clara Brandon Deaconess Linda Clayton Deaconess Loretta Greene Deaconess Isabel Middleton Deaconess Bertha Moliston -Em
Deacon James Dicks- Advisor Deacon Donnie Carter Deacon George Seymore Deacon Odath Baker-Emeritus Deaconess Mary Baker Deaconess Gladys Brantley Deaconess Georgette Curry Deaconess Georgianna Lucas Deaconess Mary Dicks-Em
“And I will give you Pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding”(Jer 3:15) 14
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Banquet Program (Seating of Guest)
Processional Head Table Opening Hymn of Celebration We’ve Come This Far By Faith Introduction of Master of Ceremony Rev. Gerald D. Sylver, Bishop Elect Prayer
Elder Selma Hill, Freedom Temple Church
Scriptural Reflections
Pastor Glen Spaulding Deliverance Evangelistic Church
Blessing of the Food
Rev. Otis V. Brandon Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church
Dinner & Fellowship
Musical Selection Congratulatory Remarks Introduction of Speaker Musical Selection Message (Sermonette)
Rev. Dr. Jerry Carter Calvary Baptist Church
Invitation to Discipleship Special Presentations Honoree Remarks
Rev. Frederick L Bowers III
Benediction 25
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Congratulations Pastor Bowers on your 50th Anniversary Praying God’s continued Blessing, Peace and Joy
Love the Mass Choir President - Pauline Bibbs Vice President - Burdette Glover Michael Young, Minister of Music
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Congratulations and Best Wishes to Pastor Frederick L. Bowers, III for 50 years of faithful service. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. 2 Corinthians 9:13 (NIV)
The Applegate Family
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What a friend we have in Jesus, for he is our model for friendship. We celebrate you, Reverend Frederick L. Bowers, III You have truly been a model friend to us! Doris Jones, Joan, Hiram and Sharon Dawson 38
New Gethsemane Baptist Church of South Philadelphia, Inc.
2301 Wharton Street Philadelphia, PA 19146 Minister Allen S. Jones, Pastor Deacon Andrew Durer, Chairman Board of Deacons 215-336-2262(church) • 215-336-3141 (fax) www.ngbcsp@vahoo.com website: www.ngbcosp.org NIV Acts 20:28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
Pastor Bowers, My Father in the ministry, Congratulations on 50 year of shepherding!! God bless you and Keep the faith! Pastor Allen S. Jones and First Lady Michelle Jones and the members and congregation of the New Gethsemane Baptist Church of South Philadelphia, Inc 39
Congratulations Rev. Bowers on your 50th Pastoral Anniversary WE LOVE YOU! The Male Chorus Freddie Cofield - President Richard Robinson - Vice President 40
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Then the righteous will answer him, Lord when did we see a stranger and invite you in or needing clothes and cloth you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go visit you? The King will reply I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine you did for me... “Matt 25-35-40
CONGRATULATIONS REV. FREDERICK BOWERS, III AND FIRST LADY SARAH BOWERS ON YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY We thank you for all the support you have given the CARE Ministry (Community Action & Response Effort) We wish you the very best. Linda Clayton - President, Mary Brooks-Vice President, Members- F. Parker, C. Waters, G. Jackson, D. Keel, J. James, J. Lecato , B. Harrington, G. B. Elliot, Rev. Bowers, IV, Evan. M. Odom, Rev. O. Brandon, L. McNeffer and J. Robinson
To Pastor Bowers Thank You for being an Inspiration in our lives. We thank God for you; you have touched our lives in so many ways. Thank you for your leadership.
The Nurses Unit - Velma Diggs, Ann Davis -President, Frances Nelson 41
I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. I Corinthians 1:4
To Pastor Frederick L. Bower, III celebrating his 50th Pastoral Anniversary The Floral Club of GEBC Love you and Thank you for your Untiring Love and Spiritual Guidance Bennie Dorsey, President
Rev. Frederick L. Bowers, III and Faithful Supporter Mrs. Sarah Bowers “O give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever.� Psalm 107:1 Presented by your Sister & Brother with Love, Gloria B. & Riccardo D. Jenkins, Sr. 42
Happy 50th Pastoral Anniversary from
Philadelphia Welfare Pride, Inc. Secure Human Rights Sonia Brookins, CEO
215-765-1705 215-684-3603 (Fax)
1231 N, Franklin Street Philadelphia, PA 19122
Congratulation Pastor Frederick Bower, III on your 50th Anniversary May God continue to bless you as you have blessed so many over the years
Philadelphia Welfare Rights, Inc. Secure Human Rights Sonia Brookins, CEO
215-765-1705 215-684-3603 (Fax)
1231 N, Franklin Street Philadelphia, PA 19122 43
To Reverend Frederick L. Bowers, III and Mrs. Sarah C. Bowers
Congratulations on your 50th Anniversry
Congratulatory Greetings and Thanksgiving for your ministry the occasion
May God bless you in the service of the Lord. Your cousin,
50th Pastoral Anniversary Greater Ebenzer Baptist Church
Marie Barksdale and Family
Mrs. Hazel M. Robinson
Congratulations on your 50th Anniversary
Pastor Frederick Bowers, III Congratulations on such a wonderful 50 year commitment of service to our Lord, Christ Jesus. You’ve been a Pastor, Leader, Teacher, Mentor, Voice and so much more.
The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
I Thank God for You. Your Spiritual Daughter, Reverend Janis E. Manson
Mr. & Mrs. John & Maxine Jones Alton, VA
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Thank you Pastor Bowers and Family for your time and thoughtfulness for 50 Years of Service to the Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church
You have always been a wonderful inspiration to me and my family. Thank you for great leadership and for every sermon, prayer, song and words of encouragement. May God continue to bless and keep you and your family always. Love, Joyce LeCato and Family Ramona Logan and Family
Love, Trustee Marion James and Joyce James
To God be the Glory Congratulations to
Isaiah 58:11 And the Lord shall guide thee continually and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: And thou shalt be like a water garden, and like a spring of water, whose water fail not.
Rev. Frederick L. Bowers, III and First Lady Sarah Bowers on your 50th Pastoral Anniversary May you be blessed with LOVE, PEACE, and JOY
Gertrude Miller-Flowers, Baltimore Maryland
Sister Alice Robinson
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To Pastor Bowers,
Happy 50th Anniversary Pastor Bowers
I praise God for a pastor that stands firmly on God’s Word. I pray God will abundantly bless you and your family as you celebrate your 50th Pastoral Anniversary.
50 years of dedicated and
consecrated service. You have certainly walked worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called. Ephesians 4:1 We are glad to be a part of your sincere ministry for all 50 years.
Deacon Edgar Garrett
Love, Sister Ellfay Wills, MArla Williamson, and Tyrone Williamson Eddie and DeMoen Smith
Congratulations Pastor Bowers and family as you celebrate 50 years of dedicated, consecrated and devoted service. My families’ lives have been blessed because of your preaching, leadership, prayers and teaching. May God continue to bless and kept you.
Congratulations Pastor Frederick L. Bowers, III on your 50th Pastoral Anniversary “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.“ I Timothy 5:17 We love you, Rev. Otis. V. Brandon DEaconess Clara Brandon and family
Love, Clareissa and Amber Williams 46
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Patrons Mary McCoullum Henry McCoullum Pat Jones Aileen Betha Georgette Curry Mary Curry Joy Curry
î ? Booklet Design: Shekinah Graphics, www.shekinahgraphics.com 48