The last three days at the Hampton University Ministers' Conference have been one of the highlights of my preaching career. The conference is the annual super bowl for preachers. I was blessed with the opportunity to be the morning preacher at the conference and God has shown up every morning! What a mighty God we serve! Pastor Gina Stewart was the evening preacher and she was phenomenal. And again God showed out. Some of the conference highlights for me were being introduced by my pastor and mentor Dr. Jeremiah À. Wright; my daughter, Rachel, being invited to read the scripture on Tuesday; my mother, father, and sister being in attendance; a bus load of BLVD members; members who traveled by plane; and friends from South Africa; all right here in Hampton supporting me every day with love, encouragement and Amens. I especially thank my wife for being my rock and supporting me all the way. I also felt all of you praying for me back in Memphis every day. Click here to view some conference photos and click here to view video clips.

My pastor, Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright will be our guest preacher at both campuses on Sunday, June 29. I know Dr. Wright will have a powerful word from the Lord for such a time as this. Mark your calendars because you don't want to miss him.

We were blessed with another powerful and anointed preacher, Rev. Karren Williams, New Direction Christian Church, at our Mid-week service this week. If you have not made it out to our “A Taste of Memphis” services the past two Wednesdays, you don’t want to miss the next three. Next Wednesday, June 15, Dr. Gina M. Stewart, Christ Missionary Baptist Church, will bring the Word.

Congratulations to all my Disciple students who will graduate this Sunday from our 2010 – 2011 Disciple classes. You have accomplished a 32 to 34 week intensive study of the Bible. I encourage anyone else who has not completed the series of Disciple Bible Study to consider embarking on this study as you grow and increase your knowledge of the Word. The 2011 – 2012 Disciple classes will begin in September 2011; watch your bulletin announcements for enrollment dates.

This Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. We will observe the Day of Pentecost, the birth of the Christian Church. Pentecost Sunday is a day to celebrate hope ignited by the knowledge that God through His Holy Spirit is at work in the world and among His people. It is a season of newness, of recreation, of renewal of purpose, mission, and calling as God’s people. Most of all, it is a recognition that His work is done through His people as He pours out His presence upon them. Join us this Sunday as we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit.

In closing, please be aware of the dangerous levels of our daily temperatures. I cannot stress enough the need to be careful; stay hydrated and protect your skin. Watch out for the elderly, the children and the pets.

Looking forward to seeing your Sunday,