Pastor and First Lady Bonner pose with supporting pastors (above)
We learn that we’re forgotten within a second by people we just have conversed with; the great Maya Angelou once stated, “People may forget what you said, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.” Yet, as we live longer, we learn that God will never forget us.
And, as a servant of God’s, Pastor Jerome Bonner has completed his service to the city of Lipscomb and the New Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church family.
This past Sunday, Pastor Bonner’s dedicated services and diligent efforts concluded with his pastoral duties retirement ceremony. Filled with New Saint Paul Church members, local pastors, friends and family, it was a sweet farewell for a servant and his deeds, well deserved, with honor and love filling the room.
It was an emotional experience, and Pastor Bonner was moved by the love, appreciation and offers of encouragement. Speaking thoughtfully, he stated, “It’s through God I’ve been able to carry on this long, by His mercy, love and strength. I’m only retiring but not giving up spreading the word of God.”
With his wife, Yolanda, by his side, Bonner heard many family and church members as they shared words and told stories of memorable moments, as well as the inspiration Pastor Bonner has had on their lives.
Pastor Angelo Hines spoke of the role Pastor Bonner has had on his life musically, spiritually and as a man of God.
His brother, Johnnie Bonner, also spoke, stating, “Though you’re younger, you’ve always seemed older by way of your spirit and willingness to use the gifts God’s given you, and I’m just proud and thankful to have you as a brother.”
During the ceremony, the City of Lipscomb’s acting mayor, Monique Wilkerson, also presented Rev. Bonner a proclamation declaring June 7th as Rev. Bonner’s Day throughout the city of Lipscomb.
She stated, “For twenty years Pastor Bonner has faithfully shepherded the flock of New St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. He has preached the Word, prayed for and with the sick, comforted the grieving and celebrated with the joyful. But for me and my family, his ministry has been more than a title; it’s been a lifeline. Thank you for loving us, for serving exactly where God placed you and for showing us just what a true servant of the Lord is.”
We send sincere and encouraging salutations to Pastor Bonner and his family and faithful church members as he embarks on another part of his journey in Jesus’ name.
Thanks for a job well done, Rev. Bonner.
Pastor Bonner and wife Mrs. Yolanda pose
Lipscomb acting Mayor, Monique Wilkerson, presents Pastor Bonner a proclamation.
