The choir opened the service by singing, “We’ve come to lift our hands and give Him Glory,” setting a tone of gratitude.
This focus on thankfulness unified the service, with the choir’s repeated song, “Make sure you tell God, thank you. For all He’s done, all victories He’s won, Make sure you say, Thank you,” serving as a central message.
These cherished moments don’t just stand alone but are a part of our church’s rich tradition of celebrating Women’s Month. Over the years, CTK’s Women’s Month services have evolved, shaped by the wisdom and strength of the women who have spoken before the congregation and paved the way for today’s celebrations. Before Emeritus Pastor, John Wesley McVicker, Sr., retired, her photo with Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., the last time she preached at Christ The King Baptist Church.
As parishioners embark on this spiritual journey, they reflect not only on the message of moving from challenge to triumph but also on the enduring role of women in CTK’s congregation’s story.
These cherished moments are part of the church’s tradition of celebrating Women’s Month. Over the years, these services have evolved, shaped by the wisdom and strength of the women who have led and inspired CTK’s congregation.
The service concluded with a benediction as worshipers departed to serve.
On Sunday, October 5th, as Christ the King Baptist Church celebrates Women’s Month, parishioners from CTK and around the world participate in and celebrate National Communion Sunday.
The Baptist Church focuses on two key items: Baptism and Communion. Baptism involves being fully submerged in water and then emerging from it, symbolizing a believer’s public declaration of faith and new life as a witness to Jesus Christ. Communion involves receiving the Eucharist of Jesus Christ, which means symbolically receiving Jesus Christ and becoming one with Christ.
CTK celebrates Women’s Month by recognizing women in the faith and those who work in the church, whether paid or unpaid. During October, the men of the church take a break. Women continue to hold positions during this time.
Here’s a recap of the CTK First Communion Sunday Celebration.
Although Emeritus Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., now resides in Atlanta and is no longer present in Milwaukee, his impact is still remembered. Many recall how he edified the Word in Bible Study, pastored, prayed, preached, sang, taught, and showed love not only to CTK members, strangers, and Milwaukee residents, but also to people in Guatemala, Malawi, and around the world. People often ask, “Where would I be without Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., guiding and directing me to Jesus Christ?” Today, as he enjoys retirement, the world honors and salutes him. Happy Birthday, Sir!
Renowned, Remarkable, & Replenished Leadership at Christ The King Baptist Church by Emeritus Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr.
Special Memorable Moments with Emeritus Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr.
Birthday Prayer, Traditional Irish blessing
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
We Pray, In JESUS’ NAME.
All done for you, Emeritus Pastor Mac, by Journalist Jude. All Over The World, we love you!
When I was in my Senior year of high school, as Captain of the Varsity Cheerleading team, I asked my custodial friend, who usually arrived to work around 3 pm, “Did you see us on television cheering when we won upstate?”
“Yeah, he replied, “They showed you real up close!”
Pilar Carrington, my best friend at Wauwatosa East, would rush to the bus or want to review cheers with me before a basketball or football game, while I lingered to chat with my custodial friend. She didn’t quite share my enthusiasm for socializing before events! She would interrupt my conversation with my friend and say, “Come on, Teesh.”
In College at UW-Parkside
At UW-Parkside, my roommate’s best friend, Alicia, once asked the custodian for his car to go to Taco Bell; I was with him at the time, and we brought it back safely. After the library closed, especially on the weekends, I’d often find my buddy James working and talk with him for hours. I would walk with him from room to room, watch, clean, and get free advice from him. He would always ask, “Latesha, what does PERSEVERANCE MEAN?” Over the course of four years, he was my mentor and confidant—without ever realizing it. Others, like the mailman, also offered wisdom, but today is about custodians. James was cool, and he visited my church, Christ The King Baptist Church, in Milwaukee when the church building was located on West Leon Terrace, before we paid off the mortgage and burned it.
In the Paralegal School at Roosevelt University
My dorm door was usually open, unless I was visiting my next-door neighbor, Jeannette Holcomb, from Brooklyn, or Sally from across the hall. Seeing his cart always made me happy. He was polite and sweet. Our quick conversations stood out, even on his busy schedule.
Working as a Seasonal Telecommunicator for the Milwaukee Police Department
Working third shift answering 911 calls at the Milwaukee Police, Tom, the custodian, would check on me. Our words were few but always sincere. He would come and pick up the garbage, but he always paused for a moment to see what I wanted. Many years later, I ran into Tom and his family at Summerfest, and he was surprised that I remembered him. That isolated job lasted one season, but talking to Tom was a highlight.
At Milwaukee Public Schools
At Borroughs Middle, where I taught eighth-grade math and social studies, I would often correct papers late at night during graduation season. It’s 11:00 pm and I am still on the scene. My friend, the custodian, would always call down the hall, “Ms. Jude, go home.” His reminders meant a lot.
I remember my friends from Hamilton High School. Sometimes, during my departure, I set the alarm off. The custodians would remind me what time they were leaving and when they would set the alarm. I recall running out of the building on most summer days.
No one could forget Danny from John Muir Middle School, later Northwest Secondary School. He was young, loved music, and always said, “Have a good night!” as I left after the teacher’s lounge.
I remember the custodian from Parkside Elementary School. She was wonderfully kind and balanced two jobs. She wished I would come back, but Jesus had other plans. A fellow teacher joked that I spoiled the kids, and our classroom pizza parties were always a hit.
At Edison Middle, during my first year of teaching, a custodian taught me about the importance of responsibility. After the kids left the art room in disarray, she visited before I went home to check the floor. Once I knew better, I did better.
I have so many memories, but today I pause to express my gratitude. Many custodians may not have degrees, but their wisdom is profound. Never overlook their value—custodians are truly remarkable!
At Washington High School, the custodian had the prettiest hair. Always straight, long, and she was so kind.
Too many schools to name, but talking to a custodian at the end of the day or shift is delightful and rewarding.
Casimir Pulaski High School, I can’t forget my buddy, Mr. Nelson. He was calm and down-to-earth. Whenever the classroom needed something, he was always there to help me, and when he was on vacation, his colleague helped me in the same way. So I never mind telling them, “Hey, we have some extra treats, help yourself!” Sometimes, I left it on the table for them when I had my own classroom for the GED program. When I was teaching the other classes during my four-year span, I would move from class to class, except for physical education, so that I couldn’t be as benevolent. The GED program was easy. Finish the test, earn an A or B, and get a treat! Whatever works to get the babies to graduate! Yes, Sir! When the room was too cold or too hot, the custodians were always there to help me out!
One custodian from Carver Elementary School always did a fine job cleaning, and she became a supervisor when I was helping another teacher with eight graders. I was so proud of her. She would mop the floors every day, and it was a pleasure talking to her when she started her shift.
The school I am at today has a custodial staff that was so appreciative of my kind words; I couldn’t leave their presence without showing a little appreciation.
At Marquette University
Special thanks to my friend from Marquette University. My custodial friend worked two jobs, one at MU and the other at the Riverside Theater. He was such a delight to talk to while I was waiting for my bus. He had the highest regard for the priest at Marquette University and always spoke well of them!
At Christ The King Baptist Church & Kings Academy
Special thanks to CTK’s Leader of Maintenance, Mark. Mark wears many hats, but he’s always there helping, cleaning, fixing, preparing, ordering, and more. If no one does the job, everyone can always count on Mark for his Christian faith, attitude, and exemplary behavior.
On Summerfest Grounds
I love seeing my friends at Summerfest Grounds. My quiet friend is missing from the picture because he was assigned another area, but I’m thankful to every worker who religiously helps maintain the sanctity and unity at Summerfest Grounds.
I could write more, but the point I’m making is never forget to support your Custodial Workers because at the end of the day, they care for you! If you forgot about it today, no worries – you have all next week and the month!
Despite continued online perfect attendance post-pandemic, Christ The King Baptist Church urges all members to return in person this Sunday, September 21st. After morning worship, Sunday School Classes are canceled. All committee members and staff will gather in the parking lot afterward for a meet-and-greet, featuring music, food (food trucks), and opportunities to reconnect and get involved.
Former online attendees are especially encouraged to return and become involved with Christ The King Baptist Church. If someone or a family is seeking a new church home, Senior Pastor Treyvon J. Sinclair, Sr., and Emeritus Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., along with the CTK family, extend a warm welcome to all. The meet and greet runs from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon in the parking lot.
Ready to get involved? Take a moment to reflect on one’s spiritual gifts and consider which ministries might be a good fit.
Representatives will be available under the tent at the meet and greet to discuss any interests and help all find their place back home.
Book of Romans
For more information about ministries, please visit CTK’s website. https://www.ctkbc.org
Some people seek advice and healing from a therapist, psychiatrist, or family members. Some may go to a gym, shop, or the movies to escape reality or deal with their problems. Some attend Sunday School for growth and encouragement. Whatever one needs for strength and healing, Sunday School is often recommended as a form of group therapy.
Pastor Treyvon Sinclair, Sr., will be discussing Forgiveness on Wednesday mornings and evenings, focusing on the life of Joseph.
CTK’s Founder’s Day Celebration began with a Gala Dance on Good Friday, July 18th, at Discovery World, a Five-star dining event comprised of scrumptious food, sincere fellowship & friendship, and sensational speakers and songs. There were no comedians in sight, but the laughter of memories shared from other pulpit ministers about Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., and First Lady Marilynn made the monologues worthwhile and entertaining. Listeners could hear the genuine camaraderie from their recollection of events.
Sunday Morning’s Somber Yet Celebratory Moment as Pastor John Wesley McVicker Preaches His Final Sermon as Pastor of Christ The King Baptist Church.
Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr.. Remembers
“Before I share these few words with you, I want to thank these Pastors who made a shift in their schedule, this is Sunday morning. Thank you so much. We’ve known each other for 40, 30, 25, 15 years. Most of us were not preachers when our paths first crossed, but God so ordained it that He would use us as preachers and pastors, and our friendship has sustained all these years.”
There are a number of CTK members who relocated to other cities and returned to sit in a pew, sang in the choir, spoke on camera, or in front of the congregation.
“We had a grand time on Friday night. It was an amazing event celebrating 40 years of this ministry. Those who worked and attended. We had a sold-out banquet and a waiting list to come to the Gala that is beyond words.”
Pastor McVicker acknowledged his family, children, and grandchildren, who are from out of town. His son, John Wesley McVicker, Jr., performed on the drums at four years old. “He stood up and leaned back on the seat, but he could keep time. He played in grade school, middle school, and high school. His job was being the drummer for all the choirs.”
Let me begin by thanking Marilynn for making tremendous sacrifices as my partner in ministry.
For more detailed information, please click on the link below.
Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr.. Recites
Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., traveled through time commemorating the sermons he preached from the pulpit with the central theme of Jesus Christ.
Free Burger Giveaway on Wonderful Wednesday, Today only!
Friendly Reminder
Pastor John Wesley McVicker, Sr., always said after receiving his Birthday, Christmas, Church Anniversary, and Founder’s Day gifts from the congregation, “People don’t have to be nice, and they don’t have to be nice to you. You’re some of God’s best people! Thank you!”
Reporter Jude 