Bishop Gilbert E. Patterson: 1939-2007

I was very sorry to read today that Bishop Patterson, the head of the large African-American Pentecostal denomination, Church of God in Christ, died. He was only 67. A couple of months ago his doctors told him he had cancer and probably had about two years to live. I guess he didn't even half make it to that point. Although he had little time, his denomination asked him to keep leading it for as much time as he could. And why would they do that? I watched Bishop Patterson's service many weeks on TBN. He understood Pentecostalism and how it should work. He didn't apologize for preaching the "full" gospel (read that Holy Spirit a-workin' with tongues and everything) or healing in the atonement. I have felt for some time that he should be the standard bearer for what Pentcostals, many of whom, IMO, have lost their way, should be preaching.

Here is what Dr. Jack Hayford, President of the Pentecostal denomination, The Foursquare Church, said about Bishop Patterson upon learning of his death today.

I know of no man who has demonstrated greater devotion to his pastorate as well as to fidelity in leadership among those in his denomination than this great man,” said Foursquare President Jack Hayford. “His contribution to the body of Christ has been marked by a generosity of spirit and sacrificial service, and it is difficult to imagine the future ministry of the Church at large without him.


Amen. I will be interested in seeing who the denomination will pick as their next leader. I hope it will be someone who is as sold out to the gospel as Bishop Patterson was.