Let’s take a moment to appreciate the personal impact of Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., of Christ The King Baptist Church. He has been an exceptional Pastor, Preacher, Prayer Warrior, Singer, and Teacher. His teachings, inspired by the Holy Spirit, have not only kept the parishioners on the path of faith but also made each parishioner feel valued and appreciated, from a simple hello, greetings at the door, counseling sessions, writing letters of recommendation, or listening to problems over the telephone. His influence has kept many connected to their spiritual roots, steadfast in the church’s mission and ministry, and a better Christian leader, parishoner, in the church, at work, and home.
His selfless dedication to the service of others is truly inspiring. No one can deny the labor of love he has taught us through his teachings in Bible Study or from the pulpit. Forty years of precise, profound, and prophetic teachings from the Books of the Bible that made each Christian hunger and quest for more knowledge to be able to tell the Gospel, but also live it therein. From church to church, from city to city, no one can preach the Gospel like Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr. For that, we, members of Christ The King Baptist Church, are grateful to Jesus Christ for allowing him to quit the Milwaukee Fire Department and preach the Gospel. He saved lives from burning buildings, but he also redirected souls from going to a burning Hell, for that we are thankful.
We also thank First Lady Marilynn McVicker for agreeing to stay in Milwaukee back in the day around the kitchen table and supporting Pastor in his vision. She was a pillar for her husband by being Director of the Youth Program, starting Kings Academy, working with the choir, and more.
Choir Director, Irene Hamdlin
We are also grateful for Irene Hamdlin, aka Inky, for saying a long time ago at that kitchen table with only him, First Lady Marilynn McVicker, and herself, hearing of Pastor’s vision to leave the fire department and build a church. Irene said, “What are you gonna do?” This question sparked a conversation that led to a collective vision and a shared mission for our church.
At that moment, Pastor decided to remain in Milwaukee and preach the Gospel. Inky said, “We’re going to have the best choir.”
Three phenomenal teachers were on a mission, ordained by JESUS CHRIST, to fulfill their calling. Christ The King Baptist Church is better because they fulfilled their calling as teachers. As you read about their lives, take a moment to look introspectively and see how JESUS CHRIST is calling you. What does he want you to do with the gifts and talents He has given you? This reflection is crucial for our personal growth and the growth of our church community.
He, referring to Jesus Christ, has no hands, but we, the members of Christ The King Baptist Church, have hands. We are the instruments of His work on earth.
He has no feet, but we have feet.
Surrender your life to JESUS CHRIST like Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., did with others and allow him to take hold of you.
I heard a preacher say this long ago while I was getting my hair done at Maranatha Beauty Salon. I loved it when the late Ernestine Tucker listened to sermons in the shop. The preacher said, “You let that man use you. He used you and still left you. Now, let the Lord use you. He knows just how to use you!”
Reporter Jude 