Pastor gilbert patterson Patterson's early years were marked by a deep commitment to his faith and a strong desire to serve God. He was ordained a deacon at the age of 16 and an elder at the age of 18. He attended LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He later attended the University of Illinois, where he earned a Master's degree in Biology. In 1968, Patterson was appointed pastor of the Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ in Memphis, a position he held until his death in 2007. Under his leadership, the church grew from a small congregation of a few hundred members to a thriving community of over 10,000 members. He was known for his dynamic preaching style, his commitment to social justice, and his dedication to the education and empowerment of the African American community. Patterson was a strong advocate for civil rights and social justice. He was a vocal critic of police brutality and racial discrimination, and he worked tirelessly to promote equality and justice for all. He was a founding member of the National Coalition of Black Church Leaders and served as its president from 1996 to 2004. He was also a member of the board of directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the National Urban League. 4. Services: This category includes listings for various services, such as home repair, pet care, event planning, and professional services like accounting, legal, and consulting. In 1968, Patterson was appointed pastor of the Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ in Memphis, a position he held until his death in 2007. Under his leadership, the church grew from a small congregation of a few hundred members to a thriving community of over 10,000 members. He was known for his dynamic preaching style, his commitment to social justice, and his dedication to the education and empowerment of the African American community. Patterson was a strong advocate for civil rights and social justice. He was a vocal critic of police brutality and racial discrimination, and he worked tirelessly to promote equality and justice for all. He was a founding member of the National Coalition of Black Church Leaders and served as its president from 1996 to 2004. He was also a member of the board of directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the National Urban League. Patterson was a prolific writer and speaker. He authored several books, including "The Power of the Pulpit," "The Power of Prayer," and "The Power of Praise." He also produced a series of audio and video recordings of his sermons and speeches. His messages were widely popular and have inspired and uplifted countless people around the world. Patterson's impact on the COGIC and the African American community cannot be overstated. He was a visionary leader who inspired and empowered generations of believers. He was a tireless advocate for social justice and equality, and he worked tirelessly to promote the education and empowerment of the African American community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the many communities he served. Patterson passed away on March 20, 2007, at the age of 68. His death was a great loss to the COGIC and the African American community. However, his legacy continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. His messages of faith, hope, and love continue to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, and his commitment to social justice and equality continues to inspire people to work for a better world. In conclusion, Pastor Gilbert Patterson was a remarkable religious leader who made a significant impact on the COGIC and the African American community. His commitment to faith, social justice, and education inspired and empowered generations of believers. His legacy continues to live on in the many lives he touched and the many communities he served.
Bob Schieffer (2005-2006, interim)