Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson was the Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ at his passing on March 20, 2007.

Though there are stark doctrinal differences between the Universal Hagar’s Spiritual Church and the Church of God in Christ, there are similarities. Both religious bodies believe in worshiping God in the now traditional style of singing, holy dancing, speaking in tongues, etc. Both religious bodies continue singing the old songs of the Church, including Negro Spirituals. Both religious bodies believe in an active God, whom we can communicate with. Both religious bodies believe in serving the fallen humanity.

I watched Bishop Patterson’s television program from time to time. He was a powerful, intelligent, and eloquent preacher. In addition, he quoted scriptures with ease. He preached the tenants of his faith without compromise.

After his passing I have taken time to read various sources about his life and ministry. His life is a great inspiration. Using Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s vernacular, he had a “relevant ministry”. A ministry reaching far beyond the four walls of his local church. A ministry reaching far beyond the confines of his religious body. Bishop Patterson was an active community leader. He was known in his city, state, the nation, and all around the world. As Presiding Bishop of the C.O.G.I.C., he enacted numerous ministries, initiatives, and charities. This is giving me a Holy Ghost lift as I seek to do similar things in the U.H.S.C.

I know his spirit is happy with the wonderful memorial and funeral services held by his Church family. His spirit is at rest, and will continue to lead, guide, and protect the C.O.G.I.C. Peace and love to all.

“I’ve Been to the Mountain Top”

Let us work to make Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision come to pass. We have not arrived. Black America has not arrived. America, as a whole, has not arrived. As long as injustices exists in our country, and they do, we must keep fighting. Amen.

As we travel through the roads of life, obstacles will get in our way. However, we must press forward. In order to do so, we must have faith. Faith that no matter how things look, a brighter future is ahead. In our Message Circle service tonight, I was reminded of a great analogy concerning the sun.

When Mo. Christine Milton was in her final stages of life, Rev. John Lewis had me give her a message, out loud, from the pulpit. It was in the fall 1999 (she passed that December). The message from the Spirit was, “Remember, the sun is always shining. Even on a cloudy day, the sun is shining. Even at the darkest hour of night, the sun is shining. Regardless of whether you see the sun, it is shining for you. God, through the teachings of Father Hurley, has given you a great light, the sun. This Sunlight will always shine on you.” When I stepped out the pulpit, I looked at Mo. Milton, she had a big smile on her face.

This message is for you as well. It can make you smile through your trials. No matter the obstacles in your life, the sun is still shining. Have faith in tomorrow. I can heard my grandmother, Rev. Georgia Latimer saying, “Where there is life, there is hope.” So, since you are still alive, there is hope. Life WILL improve, provided you keep faith and hope alive, and are willing to work for it.

May God bless and keep you. And may the sun, which represents light and wisdom, ever bless you.

I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
Rev. George Latimer-Knight
Written October 26, 2006 at age 24