Guest Voices

Bishop G.E. Patterson

Gilbert Earl Patterson preached his first sermon on a Tuesday evening in his father’s church 50 years ago. He was 17.

“I wasn’t nervous about preaching,” Patterson told me 10 years ago at his own church in Memphis. “I was afraid no one would come.”

People came. They kept coming for half a century -- at first by the hundreds to hear the pastor’s son, then by the thousands to hear G.E. Patterson himself, the young man who went on to become the most influential and popular figure in America’s leading black Pentecostal denomination, the five-million-member Church of God in Christ.

Patterson, elected presiding bishop of the Church of God in Christ in 2000, died Tuesday in Memphis after a two-year battle with prostate cancer. He was 67.

“Bishop Patterson was a stabilizing figure, a bridge figure between older and younger members of the denomination,” said Dr. Robert Franklin, a professor at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and a member of the Church of God in Christ.

“He helped bring the church forward out of its insularity and into interaction in the public square. He moved the entire denomination forward with the force of his own piety and his dynamic personality and preaching.”

Patterson, who was born in a small West Tennessee town, the nephew of legendary J.O. Patterson Sr., COGIC’s presiding bishop from 1961-1989, didn’t see himself as merely a preacher.

“I’m a spokesman for the Holy Ghost,” he often told me.

In Patterson’s view, he was called to transmit the plain truth, the raw gospel, the inspired, infallible word of God.

He preached without notes, usually for 30-45 minutes, his deep, resonant voice starting slow and low then picking up steam, moving from a whisper to a shout, from talking to singing, from solemn to sanctified.

He never stood behind a podium and he never stood still for long. He used the altar as a stage, jumping and shaking from one side to the other, wiping perspiration from his brow with one hand, orchestrating the movements of the congregation with the other.

He was the only COGIC preacher with an international TV audience. BET and TBN broadcast his weekly sermons around the world. His Bountiful Blessings ministries employed more than 100 people and included a preschool, Bible college, radio station and bookstore in Memphis. Tapes of his sermons sold in the tens of thousands.

Patterson’s defining moment as the denomination’s spiritual leader came in 1996, when he challenged then-presiding bishop Chandler David Owens. It was the first time in COGIC's 90 years that a presiding bishop had been challenged for re-election.

Owens was the last of the old-guard bishops who preferred to keep COGIC as isolated as possible from scrutiny within and outside the denomination. Patterson, by then the denomination's most popular preacher, also had become its leading advocate for crossing ecumenical, interfaith, interracial and even secular boundaries.

Owen was re-elected by a single vote, 1,429-1,428. Patterson’s supporters, including a number of bishops, immediately called for a recount. Patterson waved them off.

“Thank you for your support,” he told the denomination’s 89th General Assembly in Memphis, “but I never want to see the Church of God in Christ split over whether I should have been elected presiding bishop.”

Patterson's broader view made him more popular than ever. Four years later, the pastor's son was elected presiding bishop by a wide margin. He spent the past seven years trying to lead COGIC into this world.

“I’m not worried about dying, but I’m not happy about leaving,” Patterson told me a few months ago. “There’s a lot of work to do. The Holy Ghost keeps me busy.”

David Waters, On Faith producer, covered the Church of God in Christ for years as a reporter and columnist for The Commercial Appeal in Memphis.

By David Waters |  March 22, 2007; 1:40 PM ET Save & Share:  Send E-mail   Facebook   Twitter   Digg   Yahoo Buzz   Del.icio.us   StumbleUpon   Technorati  
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I pray we as a body of the Church Of God In Christ would let go and let God lead us in selecting leaders and keep the unity of the spirit, because so many of us are going back into things we came out of, God word never changes. We have to remember hell is hot and enternity is long, so let's not compromise and sell out for nothing, let's stay with God, so we can see his face inn peace.

Posted by: Anonymous | June 2, 2008 2:14 PM
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Watching Bishop Patterson touch my soul and on every Sunday I would get up and watch him. And he change my life and he made me want to be a member of this fine church the C.O.G.I.C.. And i miss hearing him take after he goes off the air. Thank GOD for Bishop G.E.Patterson.


MAY GOD BLESS THE PATTERSON FAMILY AND THE COGIC

Posted by: Joseph | March 7, 2008 2:49 AM
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My mother is 92 years old and bedridden she
loved Bishop Patterson, his singing and his sermon lifted up her spirits so much it was a joy to buy his tapes for her to enjoy.

We all will miss Bishop Patterson, he was a great and anointed man you will always be
our First Lady of the Church of God In Christ.

May god bless you.

DIANA

Posted by: Diana Kenner | July 1, 2007 1:39 PM
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My mother is 92 years old and bedridden she
loved Bishop Patterson, his singing and his sermon lifted up her spirits so much it was a joy to buy his tapes for her to enjoy.

We all will miss Bishop Patterson, he was a great and anointed man you will always be
our First Lady of the Church of God In Christ.

May god bless you.

DIANA

Posted by: Diana Kenner | July 1, 2007 1:39 PM
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My mother is 92 years old and bedridden she
loved Bishop Patterson, his singing and his sermon lifted up her spirits so much it was a joy to buy his tapes for her to enjoy.

We all will miss Bishop Patterson, he was a great and anointed man you will always be
our First Lady of the Church of God In Christ.

May god bless you.

DIANA

Posted by: Diana Kenner | July 1, 2007 1:39 PM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:32 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:32 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
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Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
Report Offensive Comment

Many are called, but few sent. Bishop Patterson was truly called to the ministry. Like most, I am not of the COGIC faith, but enjoyed listening to the right Bishop Patterson on Sunday mornings prior to me leaving and attending church. There will never, ever be another person who could soundly expound upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ liek him. He knew the word of God and one could truly feel God in him through his many messages. He has gone where the wicked has ceased from troubling. I have two of his c.d's and many, many of his many messages. May God strengthen the family during this trying time.
God Bless You All

Posted by: Dottie Loretz | June 27, 2007 11:30 AM
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It was only last Sunday morning when i heard the first lady Louise Patterson speaking in reference of the late Bishop G.E Patterson that i knew that the Bishop has died. I loved that man of God . He preached the truth and nothing but the truth. Every Sunday morning before i go to church , i had to watch him preaching on BET. He will be missed , but will not be forgotten . My condolences goes out to the entire church family and to his first lady and the rest of the patterson family. I am praying for the church in this time, when new leadership will be taken over that the word of God will be preached the same way as when the Bishop was present.God bless you, my prayers are with you all.

Posted by: Veronica | June 10, 2007 7:58 PM
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It was only last Sunday morning when i heard the first lady Louise Patterson speaking in reference of the late Bishop G.E Patterson that i knew that the Bishop has died. I loved that man of God . He preached the truth and nothing but the truth. Every Sunday morning before i go to church , i had to watch him preaching on BET. He will be missed , but will not be forgotten . My condolences goes out to the entire church family and to his first lady and the rest of the patterson family. I am praying for the church in this time, when new leadership will be taken over that the word of God will be preached the same way as when the Bishop was present.God bless you, my prayers are with you all.

Posted by: Veronica | June 10, 2007 7:58 PM
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It was only last Sunday morning when i heard the first lady Louise Patterson speaking in reference of the late Bishop G.E Patterson that i knew that the Bishop has died. I loved that man of God . He preached the truth and nothing but the truth. Every Sunday morning before i go to church , i had to watch him preaching on BET. He will be missed , but will not be forgotten . My condolences goes out to the entire church family and to his first lady and the rest of the patterson family. I am praying for the church in this time, when new leadership will be taken over that the word of God will be preached the same way as when the Bishop was present.God bless you, my prayers are with you all.

Posted by: Veronica | June 10, 2007 7:58 PM
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It was only last Sunday morning when i heard the first lady Louise Patterson speaking in reference of the late Bishop G.E Patterson that i knew that the Bishop has died. I loved that man of God . He preached the truth and nothing but the truth. Every Sunday morning before i go to church , i had to watch him preaching on BET. He will be missed , but will not be forgotten . My condolences goes out to the entire church family and to his first lady and the rest of the patterson family. I am praying for the church in this time, when new leadership will be taken over that the word of God will be preached the same way as when the Bishop was present.God bless you, my prayers are with you all.

Posted by: Veronica | June 10, 2007 7:58 PM
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I grew up COGIC. I am now 24yrs old. And I will never forget going to Memphis every third Saturday and for the convocation and having the pleasure of listen to Bishop Patterson. He was truly a man of God and took his role as a shepherd seriously. I wish there where more pastors like him and the country we live in now would not be in such a mess. Our pray's go out to the Bountiful Blessings Congregation and First Lady Louise Patterson.

Posted by: Amanda | May 23, 2007 2:42 PM
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TO 1st LADY LOUISE & THE ENTIRE PATTERSON FAMILY.
ANOTHER GREAT MAN OF GOD HAS GONE HOME TO BE WITH THE LORD AND HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. WE LOVE YOU AND WE KEEP YOU IN OUR PRAYERS.

Posted by: kathryn randall | May 7, 2007 6:20 AM
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I was very sadden by the news of Bishop Patterson's passing.
I reside in Charlotte, NC, and my sister called me from Waldorf MD to give me the bad news.

I started listening to him back in 1990, and ordered some Soul Winner's Conference tapes back in 1995. I remember feeling so uplifted each time that I would listen to those different sermons from different speakers and especially the Bishop's sermons.

My prayers are with the Patterson Family for strength in their time of mourning.

Posted by: Cassandra C. | May 6, 2007 3:24 PM
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Prostate Cancer is something that we dont have to die from. You can trace any disease to a mineral deficiency in our bodies. If we give our body the minerals it needs, the disease goes away. If only Bishop Patterson had known and used the minerals his body was lacking. wellnesstrax.net/consumer has minerals for prostate health. Dr. Patterson was too valuable to die from porstate cancer.If you know someone suffering from prostate problems, have them e-mail me at vtimlic2002@yahoo.com

Posted by: Vivian Timlic | April 22, 2007 6:20 PM
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Bishop G.E. Patterson, His Legacy Lives On…

What person has inspired your life? Many times when people are asked this question, they may name a famous athlete, a movie star, or a president. However, when I reflect on an individual who has truly impacted my Christian life, I think of our late Honorable Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson.

Before Bishop Patterson became the presiding leader of our COGIC Family, I remembered watching his television broadcast every Sunday morning on the BET network. His service was televised from the old Temple of Deliverance Church in Memphis, Tennessee. I was mesmerized by the spiritual songs from the choir, the anointing spirit that graced each service, and the messages he delivered with simplicity, power, and conviction. In addition, the church was always filled with capacity and the saints didn’t mind praising and worshipping God just like we do in our local church!! I would think and ponder, “Who is this man? He is such a dynamic speaker!” My spirit was so connected with his messages, because he spoke the truth from the Word of God, and I was able to apply those messages to my daily life.

Then, while attending our National Holy COGIC Convocation one year, I was able to tour his old church, and then a few years later I was able to tour the new Temple of Deliverance Church. This is when I had the opportunity to meet him personally and shake his hands. Bishop Patterson was so friendly and approachable, and wore such a beautiful smile. I just didn’t realize that he was such a tall man, at least six feet!! I was touched that such a powerful, yet humble man took the time to acknowledge us as his guests. He said that he was always glad to see the saints come to Memphis each year, and he wanted them to feel welcome!

Although Bishop Patterson has change residence from earth to glory, his legacy will forever live in our hearts. Bishop Patterson had a way of touching those outside our faith and those who had no faith at all. Can you agree with me that Bishop Patterson was everybody’s pastor on Sunday morning? He helped conditioned our hearts and minds for our local services and encouraged us to live this holy life. May his legacy live on…..

Grace be unto us,

Diann E. O’Neal
Dublin, GA

Posted by: Diann O'Neal | April 17, 2007 1:43 PM
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I am very sorry to hear about the passisng of
The Bishop. He was truly an inspiration to my
Mother an Father in Port Arthur, Texas.

I would like to know how to purchase his last
four sermons for my Mothers's birthday on the
30 of April. Please send me information.
Thank you and God bless the family and church.

Posted by: Deborah Reed | April 16, 2007 10:40 PM
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Bishop Patterson was one of the greatest preachers of our generation. I remember back in the late 80's and early 90's his broadcast on BET came on 5 days a week and later he took on the Sunday slot. Bishop Patterson and Dr. Fred Price were the eldest of the black televangelists in our generation. He had a consistency about his message. His ministry will be greatly missed because there aren't many preachers that preach a "solid gospel" like Bishop Patterson. One of the most memorable messsage Bishop preached was "Stay Under The Blood!" Bishop Patterson coined one of the greatest phrases in the Body of Christ, "Jesus Is A Habit Breaker!" May God bless and preserve the legacy of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson.

Dr. Bennie Calloway
Kingdom Truth Church of God
Valdosta, Georgia

Posted by: Bennie Calloway | April 12, 2007 2:55 PM
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I Loved him very much and I just found out from my son talking about the Lord when he told me of his passing , going home to Glory, he was one of my favorite people Preaching the word, he will be greatly missed on this earth, I can't tell you how much I loved him,When he preached the word he touched my soul my mind when I listen to him, A many of us would trade places with him, because I know he has many stars in his crown and I hope that he is one of my angels from above watching over me. God be with you and your family, My prayers are with you.....GOD IS GOOD

Posted by: Kathy Atwell | April 10, 2007 4:06 AM
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I too will truly miss Bishop from being on Bet every Sunday morning. I am Baptist by faith but as I listen to the Bishop teaching each Sunday morning I felt he preached the word and not denomination. The message each week was a prelude before going to my own church service. It's not going to be the same. May he rest in peace.

Posted by: Hill | April 8, 2007 12:38 AM
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My life Partner and I send our condolences to Mrs Patterson and the Cogic family. We are United Church of Christ both members of Trinity UCC here in Chicago and the Riverside Church NYC.

Bishop Patterson was a man of conviction.
however on same gender loving folks he ignored there lives and called Love sin. I challenge COGIC. to celebrate this mans life. but move to a more prophetic position on the war, HIV/AIDS, same gender loving relationships, and calling our elected officials to accountability.

May the peace of God be with all of you during this difficult time.

Always Ministers TJ Williams and Brad

Posted by: Rev TJ Williams and Brad Hauger | March 31, 2007 1:26 AM
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I will never forget Bishop G.E.Patterson. Our heartfelt sympathy to the Patterson family especially his wife, (who has my mother's name, Louise whom has gone on to be with the Lords well). Sister Louise Patterson in their time of sorrow. I will miss watching Bishop on Sunday mornings before leaving home to attend my service here in Brooklyn, NY. He has really bless me at times through His sermons. I will continue ti order His messages. One thing for sure I've learned and that is God don't make mistakes. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. May the God of our salvation rest upon you,the sanits of God, and may Heaven smile upon you, the State of Mempis Tennssee and the world for such a great lost. Gof Bless

Pastor Lee H. Bynes,Bibleway House of Prayer of Our Lord and Savior,Jeuse Christ,Brooklyn, NY 11208

Posted by: Sister Vernell Luckey | March 29, 2007 7:20 PM
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My husband and I send our Condolences to Mrs. Patterson and her family. We will miss Bishop Patterson's sermons on Sunday mornings in Virginia. No other preacher could expound on the Old Testament like he could. I will cherish and replay the tapes and videos I have of his sermons and "Singing The Old Time Way."

Posted by: Gloria Edwards | March 27, 2007 9:50 PM
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Our heartfelt sympathy to the Patterson family in their time of sorrow.We will miss watching Bishop Patterson on Sunday morning here in Virginia.May the God of our salvation give you peace in the days ahead.Be blessed.

Posted by: Jernita Patterson | March 24, 2007 11:30 PM
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I will never forget Bishop G.E. Patterson. His sermons were so uplifting and I would often say that he was one to emulate!

My prayers are with his family and entire Church of God In Christ.

Posted by: Ann | March 23, 2007 9:18 PM
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As an ordained Southern Baptist (SBC) minister and one who has watched Bishop Patterson for many years, I find his death a loss to the entire Community of Faith and not just that in Memphis, TN.

He may have been Pentecostal, but he was truly a voice for Ecumenism and the good things that The Church of Jesus Christ at-large has in common. Like another famous church leader has said: "There is more that we believe that binds us together than those things that separate us." Truly, Bishop Patterson was one who believed and lived out that principle.

Posted by: Roger D. Duke | March 23, 2007 5:19 PM
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Thank you Lord for allowing Bishop Patterson to preach your word to us....

Bishop Patterson was truly a man of God. He was a teacher, who composed the words of the Bible into clear, simple format that all could understand.

He was a simple man, that could inspire million. He cross racial and denomination lines...For God's word is received by all who will listen.

My prayers are with his beloved wife, Mrs. Louise Patterson and the Bountiful Blessing Church....

Rest in Peace, sweet prince --

Your job is completed--God is well please with you

Posted by: Christine | March 23, 2007 11:54 AM
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The message of JESUS was to tell others to go out and preach the gospel and if Don Imus and his millions of listeners and viewers got the message then G.E.Patterson did the will of GOD.Remember my fellow human beings that the gospel was not designed to only be heard in a church but to every soul who can hear it EVERYWHERE so GOD used G.E.Patterson in Memphis,thru the "I" man and many other ways to tell the world about JESUS and that is what he was called to do.

Rest G E Patterson !!!

Posted by: Joe Austin | March 23, 2007 11:29 AM
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Another soldier gone home!!! My mom Loleta Moore loved to watch G.E. Patterson she always said he preached the pure word. Sunday I was leaving to attend service - my daughter had the TV on; Bishop Patterson was on I thought to myself Mom would love to see him! My mom went home to be with the Lord on 2/10/07. My first thought when I heard of his passing, she gets to see him face to face. WOW!!!!

Posted by: Lenora Terrell | March 23, 2007 11:01 AM
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Rest with the Lord Bishop Patterson. You will be missed. Thank you for the inspiration to face life's obstacles. A perfect example of walking by faith. So long until we meet on the other shore.

Posted by: A Chandler | March 23, 2007 10:51 AM
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Bishop influenced so many. We listened to him at 8:30 each Sunday morning before leaving for our service. God finished Brother Patterson's mansion and now he occupies it.

Posted by: Ken Kimber | March 23, 2007 10:35 AM
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I was riding in my car when I heard that Bisshop Patterson had passed and I was shocked. My sister and I are not steady church goers, but not matter how late we were up Saturday night or how tired we may have been, we always had to all each other before 8:30 Sunday morning to say, "Get up. Gilbert Earl is getting ready to come on." We watched on BET. At the end of the program, it was a race to call each other to say what we got out of the sermon. I loved that he never sugar-coated anything and I never had any doubt that there was a beautiful place prepared for him above.

God Bless his family and the Church of God in Christ family.

Rest in Peace Bishop.

Posted by: Betty Martin | March 23, 2007 9:34 AM
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I am shocked, shocked at the death of one of the most truthful, plain smoking, God-fearing preachers to ever grace a pulpit.

This man did not sugar coat the truth, was not politically correct and preached from the Bible. He was not a motivational speaker, a prosperity preacher, or someone who spoke in double talk. He laid it out there for all to see clearly and was able to effectively inspire and counsel many through the Word of God.

I as many others will truly miss his guidance and common sense, which is much needed throughout the so-called evangelical community today.

I don't have to request that his soul rest in peace because I know he is at peace. I will truly miss him.

Posted by: Lana Floyd | March 23, 2007 9:02 AM
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Over the last 5 or 6 years I had begun to watch Bishop Patterson every Sunday morning @ 0830 on BET. I looked forward to his sermons. He touched my life in so many ways. When I viewed his sermons I always found some kind of inspiration that carried me throughout the week there was always something to fall back on from those Sunday sermons. Whether it was favorable or unfavorable, I always relied on his sermons to uplift my spirit and give me the positive approach to my daily life' challenges. I always wanted to come to Memphis to the church and never made it. I will truly miss him, his abundance of knowledge and inspiration will be sorely missed. Peace and Blessings

Posted by: Terri Smith | March 23, 2007 8:31 AM
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God bless you Bishop Patterson! I will always love you.

My heartfelt and sincere prayers go to the immediate Patterson family and the numerous extended family members of the Church of God in Christ.

Posted by: Dr. Ruth | March 23, 2007 7:43 AM
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Bishop G. E. Patterson, a mere man, who took up the blood-stained banner of the LORD and showeredd God's people with the Words of the Maste, the Good News of Salvation. Thank you Bishop for you inspired me in my walk and I trust that others join me in praying for your immediate family and the congregation family of Bounty Blessings, the Church of God in Christ.
Now it is God's turn to say: Well done, My good and faithful servant, you have been faithful in the things I gave you to do, come home and take your rest. Sweet rest, eternal rest, Bishop Patterson.
Elder Bertha N. Williams

Posted by: Bertha Nell Williams | March 23, 2007 7:08 AM
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In the eyes of the Master, he has completed his race. God bless you Bishop Patterson.

Posted by: Darryl | March 23, 2007 6:45 AM
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Thank God for saints like Bishop Patterson. God blessed many through his life, his messages and his humility. He served God and this generation well. May God comfort his family.

Posted by: Olaolu Adewole | March 23, 2007 6:09 AM
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It is with great honor that I celebrate the life and legacy of Bishop G.E. Patterson. I was a long time member of the COGIC from the age of 3 until my early twenties, which was before Bishop G.E. Patterson was elected as the Presiding Bishop for the COGIC. While I thank God for the Christian foundation that was established in my life from the COGIC, there was certainly a major transformation that was evident to the world as a result of Bishop Patterson's leadership. I thank God for using him to build a bridge that transcended across denominational boundaries, which also caused countless lives to be forever changed. My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to Bishop Patterson's immediate family, his local church body, and the COGIC family that extends worldwide. The world has been forever changed because he passed this way and Heaven has certainly gained a giant who completed his mission while here on Earth to advance God's Kingdom!

Posted by: Casandra Johnson | March 22, 2007 11:01 PM
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Hello, My name is Sandy, when I was in the nursing home, Bishop Patterson inspired me to go on. The one thing I loved about his messages, is that he spoke the truth. If we can get more Pastors/Elders/Bishops, to speak on the truth and stop compermising with the saints of God, this world would be a much better place.

Rest in Peace, and my encouragement to the family is to continue to stay encouraged through this, stand strong, continue to stay prayed up and truthful in the knowledge of God's word.

Sandy Powell-Lee
Queen Of Encouragement

Posted by: Sandy Powell-Lee | March 22, 2007 8:53 PM
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If God's word is infallible, why was it edited so much? And why is it so self-contradictory and impossible to support empirically? And why can't anybody agree on how to interpret God's word, even within a single parish community? And why does God allow people like George Bush to use His word to manipulate people into supporting the advancement of immoral agendas?

Posted by: JP | March 22, 2007 8:43 PM
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To God be the glory, Bishop G.E. Patterson was very inspirational to the upbuilding of God's kingdom here on earth. He will be sorely missed, but the words he preached and taught will live on just as our Savior did. He was a true ambassador for Christ. I would listen to him every Sunday morning while preparing for Church. He was such an awesome speaker while he delivered the true unadulterated Word of God. I believe he is with the Lord and have moved into his final destination where there will never be anymore pain or sorrow. His work has been done and we who remain can take pattern after him. Its all about Christ and him Crusified. He taught and lived it the way the Bible said.

So to his Wife and Family, shed your tears of sorrow but I know you know that it is well with Bishop now. We all will miss him but we all know it is well. May God strengthen you during this hour and we will be praying for you and remember we will meet him again, if we take up the mantle that he has laid down in Jesus precious Name. Amen!

Posted by: Minnie Cox | March 22, 2007 8:06 PM
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Although the good bishop's illness left him prostrate, I suspect he really suffered from prostate cancer. Next time, get it right, Washington Post!

Posted by: James Bernard | March 22, 2007 7:23 PM
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Bishop Patterson will be missed, but his teachings are still here. If you haven't purchased any of his Sunday sermons or those from the Holy Convocations, you need to because they will bless you for years to come. I'm glad that I was able to attend the Holy Convocation in November of 2006 to see Bishop deliver his sermon on the Official Day. And lets not forget Morning Manna. I pray that God will give Mother Louise Patterson strength, all of the family members, Bountiful Blessings and the C.O.G.I.C. family around the world.

Posted by: Shenita | March 22, 2007 7:08 PM
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My cousin from NC called me today to let me know that Bishop Patterson had passed. She knew how much I loved the Bishop as I would often share with her as well as other family and friends the teachings of Bishop Patterson. I listened to him most Sunday mornings before going to church. He delivered the Word with such "insightfulness" and brought "freshness" to the scriptures as only he could do. I will miss him greatly.

God rest your soul, Sweet Prince!

Posted by: June | March 22, 2007 6:18 PM
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I am saddened by the news of Bishop Patterson's passing as others are, but...I know that, "to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." He did a mega job while living and has left a great legacy. His works now speak for him. My prayers are with Mother Patterson; Bountiful Blessings and all of my C.O.G.I.C. family.

Posted by: Joce Smith | March 22, 2007 5:52 PM
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Alomost every Sunday morning, I would listen and
watch Bishop Patterson. Although I am not a member of COGIC, I could still relate to him because he preached the word of GOD. There should be more ministers like him. He will be missed greatly, especailly on Sunday mornings. He was and will continue to be an inspiration to me and my family.

Posted by: Preston Lane | March 22, 2007 5:42 PM
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I am shocked and very saddened to learn of Bishop G.E. Patterson's death. His ability to glean and highlight spiritual and existential lessons from obscure and apparently dry Old Testament stories was unparalleled. His characteristic rhythmical peroration will be missed. I do not know if I will be able to find another preacher on TV like him. May the God whom he served this faithfully console his family, relatives and friends beyond human understanding.

/jumo

Posted by: JM Ochungo | March 22, 2007 5:39 PM
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Bishop Patterson was a great man! I would watch him on BET every Sunday morning in Dist Hgts MD. I loved his messages they were simple and to the point, they brought correction and chatisement throught the spirit of God! You could count on Bishop to give you the truth of God's word!

Posted by: Yolanda B. | March 22, 2007 5:29 PM
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I was shocked and sadden to read of Bishop Patterson's death. I too share very fond memories of watching him on BET on Sunday mornings; He did one sermon that will always stay with me: "Living at the bottom of the barrow" My GOD bless his soul and I know his crown awaits him in glory.

Posted by: Randy | March 22, 2007 5:07 PM
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Pastor Patterson has been an inspiration to me on Sunday mornings. I enjoyed his sermons as well as his songs. He was what we call an old time preacher which is hard to find these days. He preached straight from the Bible. I will certainly pray for his beloved family.

Posted by: Angela Price | March 22, 2007 4:40 PM
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Bishop Patterson will certainly be missed by myself and the body of Christ. He stood for Holiness and always let the Lord use him. He was a preacher's preacher. He blessed me every Sunday morning while preparing to go to my church. May the peace of God rest eternally with him.

Pastor Sara P. White
Like a Dove Ministries

Posted by: Sara P. White | March 22, 2007 4:38 PM
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I just want to say that I too, was suprised to hear that Bishop Patterson passed away. Every Sunday at 3:30, no matter what I made sure to listen to Bishop Patterson, as his words were so true and comforting. May he rest in peace, and his legacy live on, as it hurts my heart to know that he is gone, but hopefully I can live in the way he preached, and if so I will see him soon...

God Bless You All...

Posted by: SPENCE | March 22, 2007 3:57 PM
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It is with sadness that I heard of the death of Bishop Patterson. His sermons were an inspiration on Sumnday Mornings before going to church. He fought the good fight of faith. He is absent in the body, but definitely present with the Lord. I can hear the Lord say, "Well done, good and faithful servant". My condolences to his church family.

Posted by: Dorothy Judkins | March 22, 2007 3:56 PM
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I am sad that Bishop Patterson has been called to glory. I live in Africa and certainly identify with his teachings. What I'd miss most is the part when his sermons become lyrics. sleep on good prince of the Lord. Shalom to your soul!

Posted by: Ade. Adeniji | March 22, 2007 3:50 PM
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Another Memphian checking in, with approval. I think Patterson was one of the contributors to the rather remarkable openness and interfaith spirit that exists in Memphis, Tennessee. It isn't even a shock, in Memphis, that the first (and very prompt) word I had of this was a tribute delivered by Rabbi Micah Greenstein of Temple Israel, during a sermon the Rabbi delivered during a Lenten service at Calvary (Episcopal) Church.

Posted by: Edward Ordman | March 22, 2007 3:48 PM
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I am surprised to hear the news that Bishop has gone away from among us. I can truthfully say that he was faithful to his possition as a minister of christ. What I appreciate about him the most is he was down to earth and he was one black minister that was not ashamed to address current affairs and family life in the black culture. And he so freely gave to people (out of love) guidance and empathy. It is seldom and few that christains will find the guidance and respect of Bishops ministry: I will certainly miss him.....................................

Posted by: Glenda: | March 22, 2007 3:31 PM
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My name is Ashley Horn, i am 23 years old, and every sunday morning, my mother and i would watch Bishop Patterson. His sermons were always uplifting and encouraging and you could always expect the"real deal", Bishop Patterson didn't spare any details, while delivering his sermons.


He will certainly be missed, but i'm sure he will never be forgotten

Posted by: Ashley Horn | March 22, 2007 3:22 PM
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The Bishop will be missed. I always took the time when I was getting ready (dressed) for church I would listen to him via BET up here in Canada. Of all the preachers on TV, he was the one who connected with me and I trusted him.

Rest well sweet prince. You have earned your rest

Winston I.

Posted by: Winston Isaac | March 22, 2007 3:12 PM
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I am very sad to hear that Bishop Peterson has passed. I have listened to his sermons for many years and always get something from them to help me with everyday life. Prays are with his family.

Posted by: Donna | March 22, 2007 2:59 PM
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