By Rev. Samuel L. Green, Jr. 1st Episcopal District
At the New York Annual Conference, I witnessed one of the most profound acts of compassion and divine care at the 203rd session of the New York Annual Conference. In a room filled with reverence, love and holiness, the Reverend Esau German, Jr. was ordained an itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
A member of St. James AME Church, Harlem, Rev. German now resides in a nursing home and could not attend the annual conference in person. Despite these circumstances, th Spirit made a way. Under the visionary leadership of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr. and with the support of the Board of Examiners led by Chair Rev. Stephen Green, and Dean Dr. Kimberly Detherage, the church came to him. His years of unwavering service and commitment to the AME Church were honored in a deeply personal and sacred ceremony, held right where he was, surrounded by love.
As Rev. German responded to the sacred liturgy, his words were filled with sincerity and strength, moving all of us present to tears. In that moment, the walls of the room seemed to expand, reminding us that God’s Spirit is not confined to sanctuaries or stages, but meets us wherever we are.
This ordination was a testament to a Church that values the unique gifts of every person and to a God who honors faithfulness in all forms. May this sacred memory continue to inspire us to be bearers of light and hope, reaching those who need it most, wherever they may be.
Awesome show of God’s love and favor upon all His people. God bless Bishop Green and the entire First Episcopal District.