Turner Chapel AME Church Awakens the Fire with Mission Trip
By Chelsye J. Williams Burrows, 6th Episcopal District
With a strong commitment to build partnerships, make an impact on people, and spread the love of Jesus Christ, a visionary pastor—supported by a dedicated ministerial staff and a team of willing workers—embarked upon a life-changing trip to Trinidad to serve, connect, and fellowship. Turner Chapel AME in Marietta, Georgia, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Tar-U-Way R.A. Bright; along with the co-pastor, the Rev. Dr. Cassandra Y. Marcus; and executive pastor, the Rev. Don Ezell, led a delegation of 47 members to Port au Spain, Trinidad, to serve, evangelize, and show love. Continuing with the vision of the former senior pastor, and by the church’s theme “Awaken the Fire to Make a Difference,” the five-day trip was also an opportunity to honor the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Kenneth E. Marcus, a native of Trinidad.
Turner’s vision and commitment to show love to the people was accomplished in Trinidad. According to Pastor Bright, “The mission trip was truly a blessing because collectively we were making a difference in the lives of our fellow brothers and sisters. Our purpose was to let them know and see our love in action. I strongly believe that the missions should be more than just outreach but up-reach. We should be intentional in fostering collaborations and partnerships. This ensures learning from each other and pouring into each other. I am grateful to God for this opportunity and look forward to our next mission trip with great anticipation.”
The delegation divided into three teams to improve and positively impact three congregations in Trinidad: Bethesda, Bethany, and Todd’s Road AME Churches. Members put their talents to work. Some people painted church exteriors and others planted flowers or beautified the grounds. Another team used their love to teach and inspire children to conduct Vacation Bible School, teach youth Bible study, teach academics, make arts and crafts projects, and enjoyed recreational activities. A few members took to the streets to evangelize and minister to the people. The good news about their visit was shared in a local television interview featuring Pastor Bright, Mission Trip Coordinator Hazel Payne, and Bethesda AME CHurch Pastor Elton Bobb.
The team members, pastors, and churches came together for a spirit-filled worship service. Two powerful messages were preached by Pastor Bright and Pastor Bobb. The melodic Caribbean music and singing were joyful and inspiring and the presence of God was evident. Individuals gave their lives to Christ, souls were saved, and the Word of God was proclaimed. The Rev. Lyndon Berkley of Bethany AME Church and the Rev. Roy Francis of Todd’s Road AME Church were also in attendance for the night of celebration.
The Rev. Marcus was especially moved by the journey. She, along with Pastor Bobb, met with the Mayor of Chaguanas Gopal Boodham and other officials to discuss current mission work and future ongoing partnerships. Their reception was well received. The Rev. Cassandra stated, “Our mission trip to Trinidad and Tobago was fascinating, thrilling, and satisfying; yet, [it was also] emotionally impactful and bittersweet because this was the first time since my husband’s death that I returned to his homeland. Needless to say, I missed his presence and most of all his insight and wise counsel as it relates to the culture, mores, and spiritual life of Trinidad.”
The Rev. Ezell expressed, “We want to build and maintain relationships with churches not only in our community but outside of our district. Mission work allows us to spread the love of God beyond our walls, to be of service, and to improve the lives of people. We are fired up about making a difference.”
Not only were lives in Trinidad touched. Members of the Turner Chapel delegation received meaningful transformations and enlightenment. Anjeanette Barker was grateful to have been able to travel with her two children on their first international trip. Gloria Melton will forever remember the bonds, connections, and friendships made. Hazel Payne had a life-changing revelation and publically acknowledged that God called her to the ministry the Sunday after returning home. Paula Turner-West shared that “the trip allowed her to learn patience humility, thankfulness, and the opportunity to slow down from day-to-day activities.”
Turner’s previous mission trips included a trip to Kingston, Jamaica with the Women’s Missionary Society and the Dominican Republic and Trinidad sponsored by Dr. Pamela “Pam” DeVeaux when she served as the supervisor of the Sixth Episcopal District. Under the Rev. Bright’s leadership, mission work will continue to be a priority at Turner Chapel AME Church.
