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THE BEGINNING OF A NEW CHAPTER
For Pastor Marcel Lightbourne, former associate Pastor of Grace Community Church, the end of the year 2004, saw big changes in his life and ministry. It’s the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. That is how he felt on December 31, 2004.
After 36 years of involvement in full-time Christian service, the last 13 years being the most intense in terms of involvement in church planting and pastoral ministry, Marcel accepted retirement from the position of Associate Pastor at Grace Community Church in Nassau.
This retirement from the position of Associate Pastor, however, does not mean that Marcel will be retiring from all ministries, “and just riding off into the sunset – so to speak”. To the contrary; it simply means that he will not be involved in the daily leadership activities of the church, with an office at Grace. However, he expects to be very much involved in ministry in a different capacity. The last lines of his official letter of retirement reads as follows: “I will still continue in ministry as long as God gives life, health strength and ability”. |
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| Marcel & Leila Lightbourne |
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On Sunday, January 30th, The church held a special service of appreciation for Pastor Lightbourne and his wife Leila. During this occasion he was honoured with the title of: “Pastor Emeritus” in recognition of his long years of service and anticipation of continuing pastoral ministry to the church.
The event was very well attended, not only by the members of Grace, but also a host of family, friends and ministerial colleagues.
What of the future?
This new phase of life will provide opportunity for Pastor Marcel to engage in various activities that he has always wanted to do but could not because of other scheduling matters.
Ministry Goals fulfilled.
In August of 2000, Pastor Marcel transferred back to the Bahamas from South Carolina to resume ministry at Grace, his home church. This led to Marcel’s installation at the church as Associate Pastor in charge of Education, Counselling and other related ministries. In consideration of all that has transpired, it’s gratifying to look back, says Pastor Marcel, and see that many of the Aims and aspirations of ministry that were set have materialized. We could see the development of Christ-like character in the lives of individuals, more persons realize the specific gifts which they have received from the Lord for Ministry, and a greater level of training was put in place to qualify individuals for ministry, particularly in the area of Counselling. |
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| Special Prayer for Pastor Lightbourne on his retirement |
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Comments by Senior Pastor Bethel upon the retirement of Pastor Lightbourne
The Grace Church family has been made richer because of the ministry involvement of Marcel & Leila with us. For years Pastor Marcel has been the face of counselling for many members and followers. He was the voice of Gospel Bells and then Grace Chapel Presents, and recently added to his distinction, the designer of the Church’s Website.
Both Marcel and Leila’s contribution to the Church have been manifold. Together they have ministered as a team in Christian ministry for some 36 and 40 years respectively. We honour their dedication.
Prayer support requested
In any event we solicit your continued prayer for God’s grace and guidance for the fulfillment of His will in all things.
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