During a week when the Reverend Benjamin N. Thomas Sr., Pastor of Tanner Chapel AME
Church celebrated his birthday, he was honored on Appreciation Sunday for his 33 years of
dedicated service. The theme for the day was, A GODLY LEADER – Serving and Leading with
Commitment, Dedication, Sacrifice and Contagious Praise!
The celebration was highlighted with spirit filled music through songs of praise by the Tanner
Male Chorus. Sister Jacqueline Jack offered her rendition of “Anointed Vessels” an uplifting
Liturgical Dance presentation of the Dance Ministry. Rev. Benjamin “BJ” Thomas Jr., Pastor of
Bethel AME Church, Oxnard, California honored his parents by providing the message of the
day.
Rev. “BJ” referenced, Acts 20: 18-27 and titled his message, “Giving You the Best that I Got”.
He spoke about Paul and his dedication to GOD and how dedication comes with difficulty. He
indicated that Dedication requires: 1. The need to understand your own ministry, your own
strengths and working with them. 2. Staying humble and not letting success go to your head. 3.
Must be faithful and finish the vision because there is no growth in being comfortable. He
concluded by thanking his parents and the members of Tanner for supporting them throughout the many years at the church.
Pastor Thomas and his wife Sister Beverly were afforded the opportunity to share their thoughts and they both expressed their gratitude for the support and love throughout the years. “Last year at this time I was in the hospital and had a number of surgeries,” said Thomas. “We are thankful for GOD’s Grace in all things.”
After the service, everyone met in the Fellowship Hall for food and refreshments and a celebration hosted by the Tanner Steward Board.
The post Tanner Chapel AME Celebrates Thomas’ 33 Years of Service appeared first on Arizona Informant.
