I have written several pieces on FB regarding my personal experiences in the area of racism and prejudice in the church. This past week I was reminded of the time that I was ministering in Florida and was introduced to a woman of God named Diane Mann. While sharing over lunch it was very clear that we had much in common as women who preached the gospel covering the two ministry gifts of Pastor and Evangelist. Pastor Diane invited me to preach a revival and I was so blessed to see that she was pastoring a multicultural church. Over the years we developed a friendship and I would always look forward to ministering at the 4th Avenue COG. As time moved on I noticed a change in the complexion of the congregation. More people of color were attending who were African Americans and people from Haiti and other Caribbean Islands and there were less people who looked like Pastor Di in attendance. Pastor is very cross cultural, having lived in Haiti and graduating from high school there. She even speaks the language and sings the songs in creole. I’m sharing this because I know how deeply hurt she has been having experienced “ white flight” in a Pentecostal Church. She has been accused of favoring the “blacks” and even called a n………..lover. I believe the Lord has called Diane and myself in the COG to bridge the racial divides and break through those barriers by the Word of God and the power of the Holy Ghost. She ministers to people of color and I to whites. This is a God thing. Neither one of us would have chosen this painful path, but we have said YES to the Lord in order to advance the Kingdom of God.
I will continue to address these issues in the church until the believers admit how much farther we need to go!!!
Thank You my Sister and Friend Diane for your obedience and faithfulness to the Lord and His people!!! You didn’t know I was going to put you on FB. I guess I should have asked your permission