Celebrating 48 Years
On Sunday, February 16th, Christ The King Baptist Church celebrated a significant milestone: Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., and First Lady Marilynn McVicker’s 48th Wedding Anniversary (they have been together for 50-plus years). The pastor fondly recalled their first date of going go-kart riding. He showered praise on his loving, patient, and supportive wife and the congregation’s benevolent, compassionate, and sincere love for them, a testament to the strong bond within the church community. This celebration was a beautiful reflection of CTK’s shared love and support within the church.
Pastor McVicker emphasized,
“People don’t have to be nice, and they don’t have to be nice to you.”
The pastor noted that First Lady Marilynn McVicker retired two years ago, and he will retire in July 2025. Although the news was somber for the congregation, it was unsurprising. The McVickers reassured the congregation that they would still be around, and their presence and guidance would continue to be felt, albeit in a different capacity. Their commitment to the church and the community remains unwavering; CTK parishioners can all be comforted that they will still be part of the CTK church family, offering their support and wisdom in new ways.
Community Baptist Church of Greater Milwaukee Guest Speaker
As the applause subsided and the congregation settled back into their pews, the church continued its celebration of Heritage Month after a selection from CTK’s Sanctuary choir. The guest speaker from Community Baptist Church on this Heritage Sunday Celebration was Dr. Demetrius K. Williams. Dr. Williams is an author, educator, and Doctor of Theology who has studied at Harvard and other prestigious institutions. He is also a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he teaches Global Studies.
Williams Morning Message was entitled: A New Point of Departure, Galatians 3:16-18
Dr. Williams focused on the power of stories. He emphasized that ‘Stories move, inform, and order our world.’ Without a story, there is no nation, culture, or civilization. Every country needs and requires a story that explains its place and purpose in the world. A narrative can challenge Human Behavior. He used the example of the Prophet Nathan’s story to David, which led to a powerful realization.
Dr. Williams’ sermon underscored “the importance of narratives in shaping our understanding of the world and our place in it.” He referred to
The Prophet Nathan told David a story about what he did with Uriah, the Hittite. David replied, “Who is that man?” Nathan replied, “You are the man.”
Dr. Williams expounds on what the Apostle Paul told the Galatians from the beginning with Abraham with Circumcision, adopting Jewish customs, and how Imperialism was imposed on Christians.
“Imperial Powers change your name, imposing a new identity on you.” Their Hebrew names, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, were transformed into Shadrack, Meshack, and Abednego. Imperial powers can rewrite your history, thus changing your name and identity. Please watch CTK’s YouTube video for more details. https://www.youtube.com/live/gTMbglDurnM?si=ZN_C8-Re8f8BFL4a
Dr. Williams also emphasized, “Don’t be afraid of your heritage. Know where you come from.” “Understanding and embracing our heritage is crucial, as it not only enlightens us about our past but also connects us to our roots, giving us a sense of belonging and identity.”
Paul said, “You have a new story. The promise is that Jesus Christ died on the cross.” He can provide a different perspective. Christians need to stay vigilant and aware. Telling the truth can make things better.
James Linsey Smith changed the world. The worship experience was indescribable and felt unique.
{“It was in Fairfield that Smith attended his first prayer meeting. Soon after converting to Christianity, he started holding his own meetings, and it was “not long before my fame began to spread as an exhorter” (p. 26). Smith describes the religious excitement of this era, saying it “was so great that the people did not leave the church for their meals, but had them brought to them. There were many souls converted” (p. 31).}
When enslaved people arrived in this land, they were skilled. They sang, prayed, and testified. Dr. Williams also mentioned Simeon Brown and the books authored by Dr. Williams.
To Summarize, Dr.Williams reiterated that Jesus Christ can change your name and give you a New Point of Departure. He referred to almost “graduating from high school and sliding into college. His college professor told him he did not belong,” but instead of internalizing his professor’s negative thoughts, he remained in school, earned exceptional grades, and was on the honor roll. Jesus gave him a new point of Departure.
Candid and Captivating Literary Works by Dr. Williams.
Challenge for Lent/Mission Month by Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr.
Humanitarian Aid in Gaza
Child Care Facility in South Africa (upper left building)
Children eating in India
Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., Reiterated the Work of Missions
CTK’s Mission Workshop and Mission Day with Reverend Dr. J. Albert Bush, Sr., CEO and Founder of SO SEND I YOU, INC., will take place in March.
Lent begins on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, and ends on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
Pastor McVicker fervently shared his excitement about the upcoming Mission Workshop with Dr. Albert Bush in March. The So Send I You program is a collaborative effort between CTK, Dr. Bush, and other churches that aim to build churches, dig wells, support pastors in Malawi, and aid in various global crises, from Guatemala to Puerto Rico to California Fires. As the Lenten Season approaches, parishioners are encouraged to read the Lenten book daily and set aside a dollar to support these vital missions, accumulating $40.00 to give to Missions. https://www.evensosendiyouworld.org/team
Reporter Jude 