After more than 7 years of faithful service, Mount Olive Seventh-day Adventist Church said goodbye to its pastor, L. David Rogers. Pastor Rogers joined the congregation in August 2010 and had been a bulwark to its members throughout the period. To many he has been like a father, a friend and confidant "I have no family here, I feel like pastor and his wife have adopted me. I can talk too them about anything", to yet others a prayer partner "pastor has prayed me through some very rough patches", a counselor "anytime, I have a problem I can go to Pastor and he always knows the right thing to say to get me through it", a supporter "I know pastor has my back, I can discuss my department plans with him and get meaningful input and support for our programs getting them passed by the Board". He shepherded the flock encouraging love for one another. Every Sabbath, he would say "turn to the person next to you and say I love you and you can't do a thing about it". Yes love is the foundation of the service he gave to the church and the manner in which he approaches everything that he does. The word expounded from the pulpit were truly messages from God to provoke thought, surrender and (re)commitment to the Savior.
Pastor was never distant, he practiced an open door policy, accessible to everyone from the smallest child to the oldest member. Always with a ready smile and word of encouragement. The youth have a special place in his heart and he in theirs. He supported every aspect of the church, no task was too menial for him. He mopped the floors when there was a flood, helped in the kitchen when we had events (prepping, serving and washing the dishes), assisted in setting up of events- erecting tents, laying out tables, chairs and other material, participated in social activities- picnics, games, races, remember his strong anchor support to the men at the summer 2017 picnic which allowed them to redeem their pride after losing to the ladies in a tug-of-war. It was nothing for him to drive to a supplier location to pick up items just to save the church the added shipping cost even if that meant driving to Buffalo. He has a great sense of humor and amazing musical talent - the mouth organ renditions (not an instrument, just his mouth) were truly a blessing not to mention that farewell duet with his son Daniel.
In Pastor Rogers, the church gained an entire family. Sis. Rogers an ardent supporter of the family, especially the youth and women brought many programs to help the members. The grief support, women's retreats, child guidance and other similar programs were truly appreciated. The food bank team will miss your beautiful smile and assistance in preparing for and serving the clients. Thank you Sister for sharing Pastor with the congregation, allowing the church the seemingly the greater portion of his time and efforts. Your support to his ministry is undeniable. Special mention must be made of Daniel's music ministry, as worship leader and assistant choir director. His melodious voice often filled the sanctuary, lifting hearts heavenward. Thanks also for allowing the church to use of your drums to embellish our services. They were there so long that many forgot or did not realize they were not church property.
As you move on to another part of God's vineyard, may the Lord continue to bless your ministry so that many more souls can be won for the Kingdom. Know you will always have the prayers and support of your Mount Olive family. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you! thank you! thank you! We love and will miss you. May the Lord continually bless you and your family.