The H.C. Brooks Family | Bishop Alphonzo & Mother Helen Brooks & Famly
| Oldest Sister, Mother Isabell Brooks Ford Youngest Sister, Olivia Brooks Yelder
A Statement of Gratitude -Bishop Alphonzo D. Brooks
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n Sunday, May 28, 1967, my Father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, scheduled me to preach my initial sermon during the 8:00pm service. My father sent for me to make sure I was ready. I told him, “I’ve been working in the kitchen all afternoon; I’m tired. Can we put this off until another time?” He then asked me, “When?”, reminding me that his anniversary started the following Sunday, June 4, and continued through June 11. I asked, “Would 3rd Sunday be alright?”, and he said, “I guess so…”; and the rest is history.
On the last night of the anniversary, we came home and talked until 2:00 in the morning. My mother came downstairs and said, “Dad, Bishop Smallwood Williams & Bishop Alphonzo Brooks it’s been a long day. It’s time to go to bed; you all can talk on your way to Chicago.” So my father went to bed. Early that morning my mother came to me and said, “Dad is in the bathroom and he’s not answering me…”. When my brother Joe and I went to the door, we had to bust the door open. It was then that I saw my father lying there; all I could think of was, “I let him down.” I knew that if I chose to preach now, people would think I was only doing it to try to get my father’s church, so I decided not to preach. In August 1967 I attended a Bible Way Youth Congress in Jacksonville, Florida. When Bishop Smallwood Williams heard I was there, he asked someone to bring me to him. Sitting in the lobby of the Sheraton Hotel, Bishop Smallwood & Mother Vernon Williams asked me when was I going to preach. I told him that I decided I wouldn’t preach. At that moment he had me kneel in front of them and he began to pray for me. After he prayed he said, “Make your father proud. I want you to preach, ‘As I was with Moses, so shall I be with you’.” When I returned back home he called me and asked me had I preached. I said no and he told me he was going to put me as a speaker on his 40th Anniversary program, so I needed to get started! A few weeks later he called me and told me again, “Don’t let me down, I’m putting you on the program!” I told him that I had not preached my trial sermon, and so he postponed the date from October to November 3 to give me more time. No one else encouraged me like Bishop Smallwood Williams. He never gave up on me & I will never forget him.
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n 1996 The Way of the Cross, Int’l had our Annual Holy Convocation at the Largo, Maryland property. Bishop Joseph Weathers and I walked around the property for over an hour while having a very long and serious talk. That talk changed my perspective of pastoring and even made a difference in our relationship. Since then I’ve appreciated him so much. Bishop Joseph Weathers & Bishop Alphonzo Brooks
the
Legacy Continues
Installation as Pastor in September 1978 & Consecration as a Bishop in 1985
THE PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY GOVERNMENT OFFICE OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE
August 7, 2015 Rushern L. Baker, III County Executive
Greetings: On behalf of the citizens and residents of Prince George’s County, it is my pleasure to congratulate Bishop Alphonso D. Brooks, the Way of the Cross Church leaders and members on the Consecration Ceremony of Bishop Alphonso D. Brooks, as he is installed as Presiding Bishop of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International. May this special service be a wonderful time of spiritual reflection, praise, worship and consecrated commitment to service and ministry. I am confident that his leadership experience and his new role as Presiding Bishop will further accentuate the great work and spiritual outreach that your institution has established throughout the country and world. The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International has enjoyed a fulfilling history of strong leadership, inspirational preaching, effective teaching and dedicated members who compassionately serve others. Bishop Brooks is an exceptional spiritual leader whose ministry of the gospel will undoubtedly continue to bless and uplift lives. Please accept my best wishes for a jubilant and inspirational ceremony. May God continue to bless each of you. Sincerely, Rushern L. Baker, III County Executive
14741 Governor Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20772 (301) 952-4131 TDD (301) 985-3894
The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
All Saints Service
Bishop Earley Dillard, Officiating First Vice Presiding Bishop-Elect
Musical Prelude Processional: Pastors District Elders Overseers The General Board of Bishops The Executive Board of Bishops The First & Second Vice Presiding Bishops The Entry of the Presiding Bishop Musical Selection | The WOTCC Mass Choir Prayer of Invocation | Bishop Willie J. Davis Old Testament Scripture | Isaiah 6:1-10 | Bishop Hurron Freeman Reading of The Epistles | 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 | Bishop Terry A. Hicks Reading of The Gospel | St. John 17:18-21 | Bishop Darnell L. Easton Musical Selection | The WOTCC Mass Choir Sermonic Solo | Overseer Kervy Brown (Pastor, Greater Deliverance Temple) Preached Word | Bishop Leroy H. Cannady, Sr., Presiding Bishop Offertory
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The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
The Sacred Service of Consecration & Elevation
Presiding Bishop Leroy H. Cannady, Sr., Chief Officiant Musical Selection | The Mother Church Voices of Unity The Occasion | Bishop Roosevelt Fulton, 2nd Vice Presiding Bishop-Elect Welcome & Acknowledgment of Visiting Clergy & Guest: Bishop Earley Dillard, 1st Vice Presiding Bishop-Elect Congratulatory Remarks: • Bishop Dwight Brock (Director of the Northeastern Region of the AWCF) • Bishop Joel Peebles (Pastor, City of Praise) • Bishop Craig Brown (Presiding Bishop, Christ Holy Sanctified Church, Los Angeles, CA) • Apostle Ronald Carter (Refuge Church of Christ, Free Port, NY) • Apostle Cornelius F. Showell (Former Presiding Bishop, IBW) • Apostle Darnell Dixon (First Vice Presider, IBW) The Presentation | Bishop Ronald A. Frazier, General Secretary “Your Grace, esteemed Bishop in the Church of the Almighty God, the Pastoral Council with the ratification of The Executive Board, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, did elect Alphonzo D. Brooks, to be the Presiding Bishop of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International. On behalf of the pastors of this church both here and abroad, we present him to you this day, and call upon you to lay your hands upon him and in the power of the Holy Spirit, to consecrate and install him as Presiding Bishop.” The Testimonial “In the Name of Jesus Christ, Who is God Almighty, I, Alphonzo D. Brooks, a consecrated Bishop of Christ’s Holy Church, solemnly declare that I do believe the holy scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God, and to contain all things necessary to salvation; and it is my solemn promise that I will continue the doctrine, discipline, and worship of this Church. I declare that I will continue the faith once delivered to the saints, which is built upon the prophets and apostles, with Jesus Christ being the Chief Cornerstone. I further declare to lead others of like precious faith throughout the world, promoting global evangelism in the unity of the faith, through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Signing of The Declaration The Presiding Bishop-Elect signs the above Declaration in the sight of all present. The witnesses - Page 7 -
The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
The Sacred Service of Consecration & Elevation will also add their signatures. All Bishops of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International shall stand. The Chief Officiant says the following, and asks the response of the Bishops present: “My fellow Bishops in Christ Jesus, you have heard the testimony given that Bishop Alphonzo D. Brooks, has been duly and lawfully elected to lead as Presiding Bishop of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International, and to serve his church by perpetuating the ministry of the church of Jesus Christ throughout the world. You have been assured of his suitability and that the collective leadership of the church has approved him for this sacred responsibility. Further, he has solemnly declared and affirmed his personal faith and promise to continue the ministry of this church in the apostolic tradition.” “Is it your will that we proceed to consecrate and affirm Bishop Brooks as the Presiding Bishop of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International?” The Board of Bishops responds: “That is our will.” “Will you, through your local diocesan and national support, uphold him in this prelature?” The Pastoral Council responds: “We will by the will of the Almighty God.” The Chief Officiant then says: “The Scriptures tell us that our Savior Jesus Christ spent the whole night in prayer before He chose and sent forth His twelve apostles. Likewise, the apostles prayed before they appointed Matthias to be one of their number. Let us, therefore, follow the examples, and offer our prayers to the Almighty God before we confirm and consecrate Bishop Alphonzo D. Brooks, Sr. For work to which we trust the Holy Ghost has called him.” (All stand). Prayer of Unity | Bishop Walter Thompson (Pastor, The Mother Church) Solo | “The Lords Prayer” | Missionary Aneisa Simon The Examination “My brother, as a consecrated bishop in God’s holy church you are called to be one with the apostles in proclaiming Christ’s resurrection, interpreting the Gospel, and to testify to Christ’s sovereignty as Lord of lords and King of kings. You are called to guard the faith, unity, and discipline of the church; to celebrate and to provide for the administration of the sacraments of the New Covenant, to ordain elders and deacons and to - Page 8 -
The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
The Sacred Service of Consecration & Elevation join in ordaining bishops; to be in all things, a faithful pastor of pastors and a wholesome example for the entire flock of Christ. With your fellow bishops you will share in the leadership of the Church throughout the world. Your heritage is the faith of patriarchs, prophets, apostles, martyrs, and those of every generation, who have looked to God in hope. Your joy will be to follow Him who came, not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. As first among equals, you have been chosen and affirmed in your primatial ministry. Your Board of Bishops has ratified and affirmed their trust in you by acclaiming your election.” The following questions are then addressed to the Presiding Bishop-Elect by the Board of Bishops of The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International: Bishop Terry A. Hicks: “Are you persuaded that God has placed this ministry upon you to lead this Church?” Answer: “I am persuaded.” Bishop Darnell L. Easton: “Will you accept this call and fulfill this trust in obedience to Christ?” Answer: “I will obey Christ, and will serve in His Name.” Bishop Hurron Freeman: “Will you be faithful in prayer, and in the study of Holy Scripture, that you may have the mind of Christ?” Answer: “I will, for He is my help.” Bishop Roosevelt Fulton: “Will you boldly proclaim and interpret the Gospel of Christ, enlightening the minds and stirring up the consciences of your people?” Answer: “I will, in the power of the Spirit.” Bishop Wille J. Davis: “As a presiding bishop, will you encourage and support all baptized people in their gifts and ministries, nourish them from the riches of God’s grace, pray for them without ceasing, and celebrate with them the sacraments of our redemption?” Answer: “I will, in the Name of Christ, the Shepherd and Bishop of our souls.” Bishop Earley Dillard: “Will you guard the faith, unity, and discipline of the church? Will you share with your fellow bishops in the government of the whole church; will you sustain your - Page 9 -
The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
The Sacred Service of Consecration & Elevation fellow presbyters and take counsel with them; as well as guide and strengthen the deacons and all others who minister in the church?” Answer: “I will, by the grace given me.” The Act of Consecration The Presiding Bishop Elect shall kneel before the council and Installer in his Rochet (the priestly garment), having been divested of common chimera identifying him with his fellow bishops. The Executive Board of Bishops will encircle the Presiding Bishop-Elect. Musical Prelude “Our Father, which art in heaven hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.” Prayer of Consecration | The Chief Officiant As the other bishops stand back at their places, the Chief Officiant continues the prayer, by anointing the head and feet of the Presiding Bishop. The people respond in a loud voice, “Amen.” The people are seated and the new Presiding Bishop arises from his knees. Symbols of the office are now given: The Surplice is presented with words of exhortation: Apostle Benjamin Peterson (Vice Presiding Bishop, Bibleway) “Receive this Surplice, that you will wear as a servant-shepherd of God’s people.” The Chimere is presented with words of exhortation: Archbishop David Billings (Presider, UFCI) “Receive this Chimere, symbolizing the prophetic mantle. You must walk as the chief proclaimer and defender of the faith in the apostolic tradition.” The Tippet is presented with words of exhortation: Bishop Monroe Saunders (Presider, United Church of Jesus Christ) “Receive this Tippet, symbolizing your acceptance to carry the burden of the people upon your shoulders.” - Page 10 -
The Way of the Cross Church of Christ, International
The Sacred Service of Consecration & Elevation The Cross is presented with words of exhortation: Apostle Floyd Nelson (Chief Apostle, IBW) “Receive this Cross as a sign of our Lord’s triumph and the banner of our salvation. Be one with the apostles in proclaiming Christ’s resurrection and His sovereignty as Lord and Savior.” The new Presiding Bishop is now vested according to the order of presiding bishops. A Bible is presented with words of exhortation: Bishop Aaron Sneed, Sr. (Love Fellowship Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ) “Receive the Holy Scriptures. Continue to feed the flock of Christ committed to your charge, guard and defend them in truth, and be a faithful steward of His Holy Word and Sacraments. Trust it for your wisdom and guidance in this apostolic ministry of church order and government.” A Crozier is presented to the New Presiding Bishop of the Church with these words: Bishop Leroy H. Cannady, Sr. “Receive this Staff as a sign of the Shepherd’s office. Be in all things a faithful pastor and a wholesome example for the flock of Christ.” Prayer of Gratitude for 30 Years of Service: Bishop William Thomas (Presiding Bishop, The True Churches of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith) Congratulatory Remarks: Apostle Huie Rogers (Chief Apostle, Bible Way Church World Wide) Presentation of our New Presiding Bishop Alphonzo D. Brooks Installation & Consecration of First Vice Presiding Bishop Earley Dillard & Second Vice Presiding Bishop Roosevelt Fulton Benediction A Congratulatory Reception will be held in the lower level of the church following this service.
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