Program Book for the Community Welcome + Installation of Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V

Greetings from the Pastor

Baptist Church Legacy

to Pastor Harris

of Worship and Installation

Guest Preacher Biography

Special Message: The Empty Chair

Letter of Welcome from the City of Cleveland

Salutes from Ministers and Churches

Welcome Messages from Antioch Ministries

Listing

Congregation’s Prayer

GREETINGS from the PASTOR

Beloved of God,

I greet you in the matchless name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to whom I give all honor and glory for this grand occasion.

Please allow me to share how incredibly happy—indeed overjoyed I am that God has arranged this celebratory occasion. I owe a debt of gratitude to the Search Committee; you all have made me feel included and wanted from our first interactions. I also salute and honor our Church’s leadership, from the interim ministerial presence of Drs. Gilmore and McMickle to our dynamic Deacons and terrific Trustees, Ministers, and TOWER ministry leaders. I salute and celebrate you all. I recognize that I am a mere man standing on the collection of supernatural feats accomplished by other mere men in service to God and people. We are all one cohesive unit of Christ, and I salute and celebrate the many great extraordinary leaders and preachers of Antioch. Today is about them, too.

Allow me to continue by saying that I love Antioch—I mean all of Antioch! Moreover, I love being here, and I absolutely can’t wait to see the fruition of the amazing things we will do together for God. Indeed, we’ve already begun, and I appreciate the ways in which you’ve allowed me to turn our celebration as pastor and people into a beneficial collaboration for the community. I further appreciate the ways you’ve embraced my family. I am moved to tears just thinking about how Antioch has rekindled my beautiful wife Sherma’s zeal to render Christian service, how warmly she’s been received, and how Antioch is the place where we are pleased to raise our children.

I believe that we have something here at Antioch that our community and our city need desperately. There is a great need for our wisdom, lived experiences with God, and our resources. Together, with the aide of God, we will meet our community’s needs. I can foresee a day in which we will directly shape both policy and policymakers through our TOWER ministries. I am excitedly anticipating the ways that we will call and usher our community and city into a deepening relationship and understanding of God that will manifest itself in collective prosperity. I am excited already about the ways we will promote and champion human dignity and self-love as we model inclusive excellence and radical Christian love and acceptance. Antioch has been and will continue to be a beacon of light and a tower of power particularly in our post-pandemic world. It is true that we live in

a world of consistent change, but we serve a consistent God—who gets consistent results out of His committed followers. We will serve this present age and serve well.

Finally, I want to thank my family. I must begin with my amazing wife; she really is my better half. Without her, I’d only be a shell of who I am with her. I love and appreciate you to no end. To our wonderful children, Grace and Kara, who keep me young and committed to dreaming and hoping for the best. I honor my parents Pastor Napoleon and Linda. They, along with my grandparents Napoleon and Ruby, and Bertha Mae and Shepherd, shaped me into who I am still yet becoming. I honor my wife’s parents Frank and Pearline (Ma as you’re affectionately named in my phone). When I consider my family, from my parents and grandparents to my aunts and unclescousins, I am beyond blessed. Naturally, I must recognize my sister, Nikki Tolliver (my favorite preacher), and brother Kevin. You all help me in ways I don’t have words to express. I love you both.

In conclusion, I need to thank Fellowship Nashville and a special thanks to Drs. Turner (my honest-to-God brother), Parks (my pastor), and Shull (my friend), along with Pastor Green and Rev. Dunlap. You all are my spiritual circle. I love and appreciate your care of soul with me. You’re family. I thank God for all my friends down through the years. I thank God for my Second Met, Union Grove, and TSU and VU Divinity School families. I praise God for my mentors, from my dad to Dr. McMickle, Dr. Moss, Dr. Brad Braxton, Dr. Martha Simmons, and Dr. Forrest Harris—and a special acknowledgment goes out to all my uncles, brothers, and sisters in ministry. There is no me without your input. Thank you for being who you are to me.

To God be the glory!

Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V Senior Pastor, Antioch Baptist Church

of ANTIOCH

Rev D. D.

Rev. Alexander

Rev. S.C.

Rev. F.B.

Rev. H.C.

Rev. Mack

Rev. Dr. Wade

Rev. Kelly

Rev. Emanuel

Rev. Dr. Marvin

Rev. Dr. Todd

Rev. Dr. Napoleon

HISTORY of the CHURCH

From Humble Beginnings

In the early 1890s, Southern blacks were migrating North seeking a better way of life, and many of them settled in Cleveland, Ohio. Finding that there was only one Black Baptist church to serve their spiritual needs, it became obvious that a second Black Baptist church was needed. After several prayer meetings, a group of 29 men and women from Shiloh Baptist Church obtained Letters of Dismissal and organized the new church: Antioch Baptist Church was born. The new church held its first formal worship service on January 12, 1893, in the home of Mr. Henry Myers, 10 Laurel Street (now around Cuyahoga Community College), and Reverend D. D. Minor, a student at Oberlin College, became the first pastor. The first permanent home was in a remodeled frame house at Central Avenue and Sked Street (presently the location of the Cedar-Central Housing Projects), dedicated on the second Sunday in July 1893.

Several well-qualified ministers served as pastors of the ever-growing church, including Reverends Alexander Moore, F. B. Brookins, Horace C. Bailey, and Mack T. Williams. Under Rev. Moore’s pastorate, Antioch’s status changed from an independent Baptist church to a Missionary Baptist church. During the pastorate of Rev. Mack T. William, church membership grew, and a 14 -room house and two lots at East 85th Street and Cedar Avenue were purchased. The plans were to build a church on the site, although Rev. Williams’ dream of finding a new church home was not realized due to his resignation in 1926. However, he is credited with starting the movement that finally culminated in the relocation of Antioch to its present location at East 89th Street and Cedar Avenue.

Most notable during Rev. Bailey’s tenure was his effort to enlist the support of John D. Rockefeller, Sr., who agreed to contribute $1.00 for every dollar raised by the members, to raise sufficient funds to erect a permanent church building. By 1905, an imposing structure was erected at Central Avenue and East 24th Street at a cost of $16,000. In a relatively short time, church membership increased to approximately 1,200 members. Rev. Bailey also encouraged several young people to serve as missionaries in Africa: Anita Bolden Fitch, Anna Marie Morris Waite, and Xernna Brown Wilson. The Sunday School was organized in 1893, at the same time as the church, and there were classes for every age group from Cradle Roll to adults–reaching absentees and the children who had no Sunday School connection. By 1945, Sunday school enrollment had increased to over 700 persons. It was during this time that Daily Vacation Bible School was organized at Antioch with enrollment reaching more than 155 children from the church and community.

The church has always enjoyed various kinds of music. The Senior Choir was organized in 1893. Its emphasis was mainly on singing the great hymns of the church and anthems of the masters. The Young People’s Choir dates to 1923. Antioch Chorus, organized in 1928, specialized in gospel hymns and spirituals. While this tradition has continued, traditional gospel and variations of contemporary music enlarged their repertoire under the direction of Mrs. Helen Turner-Thompson.

One of the most viable organizations of the young church was the Antioch Missionary Society which was organized in 1901. Its purpose was to unite all women of the church in a fellowship that would encourage personal development and a commitment to the work of the church through worship, work, and witness for Jesus Christ. To train our youth in the field of missions, the Sunshine Band, Good News Club, and Guild Girls organizations were sponsored by the Mission Society. At one time the society consisted of 19 circles, with the Delaney Circle, organized in 1935, as the oldest.

The McKinney Years

Following the resignation of Rev. Williams, another giant appeared on the scene. No one could foresee the impact that the next pastor of Antioch would have on the church nor the legacy that the family would leave. Leaving a pastorate in Flint, Michigan, the Reverend Wade Hampton McKinney was installed as pastor of Antioch on July 12, 1928. With him came his gracious wife, Mrs. Ruth Berry McKinney, and their two sons, Wade Hampton, Jr. and Samuel Berry, and his sister-in-law, Ms. Ada Berry. Twin daughters, Mary Louise and Virginia Ruth, were born later into this dynamic family. Rev. McKinney, a graduate of Morehouse College, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in 1949 by the college. He was a graduate of Colgate-Rochester Divinity School.

Rev. McKinney guided the membership through the depression years and into World War II. During this time the membership grew from 841 to 2800 persons. Under his leadership, the church moved to its present location, formerly the Bolton Avenue Presbyterian Church. The building was purchased for $38,850.00. A dedication service was held on November 11, 1934. The congregation raised over $33,000 to clear the church of its mortgage in approximately six years.

The McKinney years brought about many innovations. As the membership grew (over 3,000) an early morning worship service followed by the coffee hour was instituted to accommodate those who preferred an earlier service or who otherwise could not attend the 11 o’clock service. The McKinney and Berry families worked as a team. Their contributions cannot, and should not, be overlooked. Ms. Ada Berry organized Junior Church with an emphasis on the spiritual growth of our young people. They were trained for leadership roles in the church and imbued with a sense of reverence for God’s house, Christian stewardship, and church attendance. She also organized the Sunshine Band for children between the ages of six and 12 years. In 1937, a Boy Scouts troop was formed, and a Girl Scouts troop was started in 1938.

Mrs. McKinney organized and directed the Young People’s Choir, taught Sunday School, and directed several plays. She was also very active in the Mission Society, served as president of the Greater Cleveland Council of American Baptist Women, was on the Executive Board of Church Women United, and on the committee of the Women’s Department of the Baptist World Alliance. In 1942, the basement of the church was remodeled and made into a lower auditorium with a seating capacity of about 600.

As the physical church expanded, Rev. McKinney insisted on spiritual growth as well. He never forgot the church’s main purpose – evangelism. There were revivals, every-member canvasses, and spiritual emphasis services where members renewed the depths of their spiritual lives. On the first Sunday of the month, deacons carried communion to the sick and shut-in members. Visitation of the entire membership was done in the spring and fall of the year Seeing the need to improve the economic plight of veterans who were returning from service in World War II, the Antioch Credit Union was started in 1947 under the sponsorship of the Veterans’ Bible Class with 82 shareholders and the whopping sum of $174.00.

As the membership continued to grow, so did the Sunday School. Under the leadership of Mr. C. A. Lee, five adult classes were organized—including the Beehive, Concordia, Dorcas, Fidelis, and Veterans. It was soon apparent that more classrooms were needed. The construction of an educational building was begun to house Sunday School classrooms on three levels, a nursery, and later a daycare center. The completed structure was dedicated on April 26, 1959. The building was named the McKinney Youth Center in honor of Rev. McKinney. During this time the population of the Cleveland public schools grew, and the McKinney Youth Center was used to house the overflow classes of Bolton Elementary School. Also, after-school activities were held for children in the area. It was during this time that property was purchased on Cedar Avenue which was later used as a parking lot.

Recognizing the importance of academic excellence, and encouraging young people to continue their education, all secondary school, and college graduates were presented to the church during the morning worship service in June of each year. The students were given a bible or a book of significance.

During the McKinney years a succession of young men, known as the “Sons of Antioch”, served as assistants to the pastor or associate pastor. Some were students of Oberlin Theological Seminary who did their internship at Antioch. Many went on to pastor churches across the United States.

Rev. McKinney was not only a spiritual leader, but he was a voice to be reckoned with in the secular community. He was appointed to the Mayor’s Committee by Mayor Frank Lausche; served on the Board of Managers of the Cedar YMCA; was the first Negro to serve as foreman of the County Grand Jury. He continuously fought for social justice and the religious and personal rights of individuals, especially those of his congregation.

After having served Antioch for over 35 years, Rev. McKinney resigned as pastor and was pastor emeritus until his death on January 18, 1963. The McKinney and Berry families left an indelible ‘footprint on the sands of time’ at Antioch Baptist Church.

Organizations started during the McKinney era were the Silver Leaf Club which was organized in 1930 to promote Christian fellowship among members, to enlist in active service those who were not identified with some auxiliary, and to minister to the unfortunate; the Gleaners was organized in 1941 to help new members get acquainted with Antioch, assist the needy and to promote the financial and spiritual welfare of the church; Women’s Day observance started in 1932 when women were in complete charge of all activities during worship service. The women raised funds to support various projects of the church.

HISTORY of the CHURCH (CONTINUED)

Following the pastorate of Rev. McKinney, the Reverend Kelly Miller Smith of the First Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee was called to serve as pastor. His tenure was brief, serving only from July to November 1963. He resigned to return to Nashville to complete unfinished commitments.

The Branch Years

Upon the resignation of the Reverend Kelley Miller Smith, Antioch was without a pastor for a period and was served by several supply ministers. Then in 1964, the Reverend Emanuel Sylvestre Branch, Jr. became the ninth pastor of Antioch. Rev. Branch had come to Cleveland in 1961 to serve as a staff member of the Church Federation in the Cleveland Area. He was a graduate of Yale University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Bachelor of Divinity degree. Before coming to Cleveland, he was a social worker for the state of Connecticut and served as pastor of several churches in Connecticut. He and his wife, Gloria, were the parents of two daughters, Crystal Alice, and Colleen Ann.

From the very beginning, it was obvious that he was very concerned about the welfare of the people in the community and the city. He immediately became actively involved in social programs in the Cleveland area. He served on several boards in the religious and secular communities. His wife, Gloria also was actively involved in community affairs. Rev. Branch received numerous citations and awards in recognition of his religious and civic activities.

One of the first outreach programs initiated by Rev. Branch was the Antioch Day Care Center. The center was started in 1966 to fill a need for economically- deprived children and their families by providing day care primarily for children of ADC mothers. Corrine Ector was the first head teacher.

In 1968 after the Hough riots, when several black neighborhoods were destroyed, Antioch provided equity money for the Kenmore-Randalls Estates which were built in the Hough area. The Antioch Credit Union building was dedicated on November 19, 1968. Antioch Towers, a high-rise apartment complex at East 89th and Carnegie Avenue, was built in cooperation with Forest City Enterprises and Cleveland Clinic and was dedicated in 1975.

Throughout the years Antioch continued to carry on the tradition of service to God, church, and community. Under Rev. Branch’s leadership, many organizations were formed, and many programs were instituted. They were the Layman Fellowship, Fifty Plus Club (1970), Usher Board II (1976); the Yokefellow program, which provided orientation for new members. Family Thanksgiving Dinner was started in 1981; Lenten Services (1976) provided an opportunity for laypersons to witness for Christ and to promote Christian fellowship among the Antioch Family. The McKinney Memorial Library, dedicated on January 20, 1974, fulfilled a dream of the McKinneys; the Antioch Speaks newsletter was issued each week to inform members of activities and events of interest relating to the church; Orita for Black Youth, a year-long program that trained young people for Christian adulthood, began in 1977 and held its first formal Ceremony October 8, 1978. Also, in 1978 Antioch launched the Educational Incentive Awards program by awarding financial assistance to thirteen students.

It was during this era that the Baptist Youth Fellowship, whose emphasis was on training, evangelism, and foreign missions, grew in numbers and flourished. The BYF was an outgrowth of the Youth and Young Adult Fellowships and was led by the Reverend Harry B. Parrott, Jr., associate

minister of Antioch, assisted by Willie and Linda Nichols. In 1975, the Romanesque-style building known as Antioch Baptist Church was designated as a Historical Landmark. In 1983, Antioch held various activities to observe its 90th Anniversary. Reunion weekend activities were held in a huge tent in the 89th Street parking lot. It was a joyous occasion with many former members returning to join in the celebration.

On December 23, 1983, Reverend Emanuel S. Branch, Jr. expired after a lengthy illness, a sad climax to the 90th Anniversary celebration. After the death of Rev. Branch, the Reverend Jeremiah Pryce, a native of Kingston Jamaica, West Indies served as interim pastor for a time.

The McMickle Years

Carrying on the tradition of this historic institution, and yet with the vision to provide the leadership that would guide us into the 21st Century, another well-prepared leader was installed as the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church, namely the Reverend Dr. Marvin A. McMickle, Ph.D. A native of Chicago, Illinois, he and his wife, Peggy came to Cleveland with their son, Aaron in 1987.

Rev. McMickle had served as pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, New Jersey, and Associate Pastor of The Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City. This teacher, pastor, and leader continued a long line of well-educated leaders that have served Antioch. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Aurora College, Aurora, Illinois, a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary, New York City, a Doctor of Ministry degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New Jersey, and a Doctorate in Philosophy from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.

Upon coming to Cleveland, he immediately became involved in various religious and civic organizations. No one could imagine the impact this dynamic leader would have on the Greater Cleveland area. He was elected as president of the local NAACP and the Shaker Heights School Board. He served on various boards including the Greater Cleveland Roundtable, United Pastors in Mission, the Urban League of Greater Cleveland, Gateway Economic Development Committee, and United Way Services of Greater Cleveland. In 1998, he was a candidate for the United States Congress, and in 2000 he ran for the United States Senate. Although he did not win either race, he gained national attention. He often spoke out on issues that affect people locally as well as nationally. In 2001, he was honored as Cleveland Black Professional of the Year by the Black Professionals Association. He taught Homiletics at Ashland Theological Seminary. Upon his 15th anniversary as pastor of Antioch a scholarship was established in his name.

As pastor of Antioch, Rev. McMickle proved to be a forward-thinking leader. He saw the need to expand the role of women in church leadership. In 1988 Tonya Fields became the first woman ordained to the ministry by Antioch and during the 1990s five women were ordained as deacons. They were Dorothy Rambo, Pamela Ashby, Delores Brown, Vivian Hairston, and Sandra Fain. Rev. Mylion Waite, Rev. Gloria Chaney-Robinson, and Min. Audrey Fountain were chosen to serve as associates and ministry leaders.

To commemorate the church’s 100th anniversary, a year-long celebration was held at the Executive Caterers at Landerhaven, Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The celebration included ministers from various

churches, “Sons of Antioch”, and other outstanding church leaders. Highlights of the celebration were the anniversary luncheon featuring Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, pastor of the United Church of Christ, Chicago, Illinois, as a speaker, and a concert featuring Martina Arroyo and the Harlem Spiritual Ensemble at the Ohio Theater on Playhouse Square.

On February 29, 2004, a very special program was held at the Intercontinental Hotel. It was a ‘family reunion’ for the entire church and honored the “Pillars of the Church”, members of Antioch who received the Right Hand of Fellowship over 50 years ago. Four members were honored as the oldest active members. They were Mary Archie, Carl L. Morgan, Selmer Prewitt, and Anna L. Smith.

Outreach programs started during the McMickle pastorate: Adopt-A-School — Members volunteered as tutors, aids, and helpers in the Cleveland Public Schools; Loaves and Fishes Hunger Program — Provides meals weekly for the hungry in and around the area; Alcoholic Anonymous programs — Antioch provides meeting space for three units of Alcoholic Anonymous; AGAPE Program — Antioch became the first African American church to play a significant role in the fight against AIDS by instituting the AGAPE program to test, educate and support those affected by or infected with HIV/AIDS; Prison Fellowship Ministry — This ministry reaches out to those who are incarcerated by visiting prisons, participating in worship service with inmates, and providing Christmas gifts for children of incarcerated parents through Project Angel Tree; Antioch Development Corporation —a non-profit 501(c)3 community development corporation was formed to accelerate the creation, implementation, and expansion of future outreach programs by the church; Genesis Program — Originally named Project Respect, was a training and employment services program to help needy city residents gain the needed skills to become gainfully employed; S.A.M.M. Project — Stopping AIDS is My Mission, trained 9th through 12th graders in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District in HIV prevention. Since 2005, the SAMM Project trained over 3,000 students in HIV prevention.; Empowering Our Sisters — Enlisted area African American beauty salons to provide HIV prevention education at the salon on an ongoing basis. Our AGAPE staff trained each salon owner to provide education during normal client conversations; Circle of Care Project — Enlisted area African American churches to provide HIV prevention education at their site on an ongoing basis; M.M.Y.F.A.M. — Molding Minority Youth through Faith and Mentoring, originally named B.R.I.D.G.E. the Gap, a year-round enrichment and mentoring program for at-risk, middleschool boys, was designed to include workshops, hands-on demonstrations, field trips, shadowing, mentor- matching, and career and character development training; Turning the Tide — This five-year education project was supported by the Governor’s Office of Faith-Based Initiatives, to strengthen Black marriages and families, through training married and to-be-married couples, in communication, problem-solving, conflict management and demonstrating a commitment to their spouse.

Other Programs and Ministries initiated during the McMickle Pastorate included a worship and arts department with a cherub Choir, a children’s choir originally directed by Shirley Lawrence and later by Lillian Reynolds; the Adult Ensemble, organized in 1987; Young People’s Choir, later known as Voices of Praise, organized in 1992; Male Chorus, reorganized in 1995; Drama and Choral Reading Ministry, organized in 1997; Antioch Communications Ministry, beginning in 2000 and was charged to publish a monthly newsletter, create a visitor brochure and redesign the Sunday bulletin; The Flame Team, organized in 2003 as a small group of singers who provided uplifting songs at the

beginning of worship service to set the tone for worship; Praise in Motion, organized in 2003 as a Liturgical Dance Ministry; Antioch Ringers, a Hand Bell Choir organized in 2005; Chairō! Praise Singers, organized in 2005 as an ensemble group who originally sang primarily for Saturday Joy Night worship service; Hour of Power Praise Team, organized in 2005 were singers who sang mainly for the Sunday Hour of Power worship service that was late discontinued.

Additional programs and ministries begun during the McMickle era were: African American-Jewish MLK celebration with Antioch and Temple Emanu El; Antioch HEART for God Singles Ministry; Audio & Video Ministry; Bible Study groups for Children and Youth; Black Film Festival; Christian Bowlers; Women’s Golf Ministry; Greeters Ministry; Hallo-lujah Festival; Hospitality Ministry; Monday Night Book Club; Monthly Birthday Celebrations; Open Door Fellowship Prison Ministry; Puppet Ministry; Radio and Television Broadcasts; Senior Ministry; Youth Church; Youth Drill Team Some of the programs started under Rev. McMickle were discontinued for various reasons.

In 2000, led by Min. Kelvin Berry, the church embarked upon a reconstruction and building program known as the Nehemiah Project. The intent was to raise funds to refurbish the sanctuary and build additional buildings to provide space for its ever-increasing ministries. Members were asked to contribute above and beyond their normal tithes and offerings. As a result of the $1,500,000 funds raised, the Lower Auditorium was remodeled and named Branch Hall in honor of the late Rev. Emanuel Branch; the Chapel was refocused and refurnished; the pastor’s office was expanded, and the church offices were moved to the McKinney Building; the building next door was purchased, and the parking lot was expanded; the Women’s Lounge was completely remodeled; Fund-raising was discontinued in 2004.

Looking to the future of Antioch and its ministries, Rev. McMickle recommended the book, The Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren, to Geraldine Burns, chairperson of the Board of Christian Education, with a view to creating a Purpose Statement for Antioch. With the assistance of Saundra Berry, the following statement was adopted: Teach the Word, provide Outreach ministries, Worship God, Evangelize and build strong church family Relationships. Beginning in September 2004, the members participated in a Forty Days of Purpose program. Small groups were formed and began meeting weekly to study the book, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. Following the completion of the 40 Days, a weekend Retreat was held at the Bertram Inn in Aurora, Ohio, on December 11 and 12, 2004. For the first time, Sunday worship service was held away from the Church building. The service included a Cantata, Born to Die by Glenn Burleigh, performed by the Antioch Mass Choir and the Choral Reading Ministry. The members came away from the Retreat with a renewed spirit and a renewed focus on the church.

With the ever-increasing need to maintain the church building, an Endowment Fund was established in 2003. The premise was to encourage members and friends to create a legacy in honor of a loveone. Funds raised would be used to keep God’s house in good condition. To recognize donors, the Tree of Life plaque was installed in the East 89th Street foyer and was dedicated on November 6, 2005. The first donor was in honor of the late Ardelia Bradley Dixon.

The Paver Project was begun in 2005, 1) to fund major capital improvements to the interior of the

church, 2) to publicly recognize the contributions of past and present members and friends, and 3) to provide an opportunity to acknowledge vendors and companies with whom the church had enjoyed a lasting business relationship. Paving stones, honoring contributors, were installed at each entrance to the church and along the sidewalks that surround the building. In 2007, a projection system was installed throughout the building.

Early in 2011, Rev. McMickle tendered his resignation, effective December 31, 2011, to accept the presidency of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. This published author, eloquent speaker, learned teacher, dynamic preacher, civic leader, visionary, and, most of all, a loving husband and father, served Antioch for 24 years. To honor his years of service to Antioch and the greater Cleveland Community a farewell celebration was held at the Executive Caterers at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights, Ohio.

Immediately after Rev. McMickle announced his resignation, a Pastoral Search Committee was formed. Deacon Anthony Lockhart served as chair. Sixteen months later and after reviewing more than 240 applications, the invitation was extended to the Reverend Dr. Todd C. Davidson of Virginia Beach, Virginia, to become the eleventh pastor of Antioch, effective September 1, 2012. Rev. Davidson came to Antioch and the greater Cleveland area with his wife, Laia, and three daughters, Cana, Keaiah, and Ajah. Rev. Davidson’s parents, Mr. Calvert and Mrs. Doris Davidson, later relocated to the Cleveland area. With renewed energy and a focus on the future, the members of Antioch began to eagerly embrace the vision of Rev. Davidson as he endeavors to fulfill God’s purpose for His church-Antioch. Soon one could begin to see a renewed spirit as well as an increase in membership. He began encouraging Antioch to become a one hundred percent tithing church so that God’s work could continue through its many ministries. Rev. Davidson tendered his resignation in May 2020, shortly after the pandemic shutdown order had been put in place.

Before the Harris Years

Weathering unprecedented times, the Antioch congregation came together like never before to continue in its ministry and service in the best ways that it could. The deacons, under the leadership of Deacon Chair Pamela Ashby, stepped forward to bring worship to members of Antioch, and the Trustees, along with other ministry leaders, found innovative ways to continue to worship and gather with one another throughout the throes of the COVID-19 lockdown. In addition, Rev. McMickle agreed to serve as interim pastor for this two-year period as the church began another search committee for its next senior pastor.

After a national search, Antioch prayerfully called the Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V as its next senior pastor, becoming only the 12th senior pastor in the church’s nearly 130-year history. Pastor Harris, a Cleveland native, began this new call on August 1, 2022, moving from a congregation in Nashville, Tennessee. Joining Pastor Harris are his wife, First Lady Sherma Harris, and his two young daughters. Pastor Harris will be installed on October 7, 2022, with a three-day homecoming weekend to celebrate this blessed and exciting occasion. With special thanks to Geraldine Evans.

This special three day event of community celebration will be a joyous occasion for our neighborhood, and it’s our privilege to join in.

FRDC is proud to support the installation and community welcome of Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V.

INTRO to REV. HARRIS

Rev. Dr. Napoleon Harris is the Senior Pastor of the historic Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. He has served God through the pastoral ministry for well over a decade, having served at the Shiloh Baptist Church in Norwalk, CT, and the First Baptist Church of South Inglewood in Nashville, TN before arriving at Antioch. Pastor Harris’ pastoral ministry has been characterized by a love-centered holistic approach to ministry, community outreach, and a dedication to transformative preaching and teaching.

Pastor Harris was born in Cleveland, Ohio to Reverend Napoleon Harris IV and Linda Gayle Mosley Harris. Dr. Harris was licensed and ordained by his two spiritual mentors: his father, and late pastor, Rev. C.W. Goodwin Sr., who both instilled in him a dedication to the gospel ministry through activism for biblical justice and a relentless commitment to compassion.

With a strong commitment to education Pastor Harris attended Benedictine High School before enrolling at the illustrious Tennessee State University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2003 before re-enrolling to obtain an M.Ed. in Educational Administration. In May of 2008, he received the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Vanderbilt Divinity School. While attending Vanderbilt, he received a certificate from the Kelly Miller Smith Institute in Black Church Studies. In May 2011, he continued his commitment to education earning a Sixth Year Certificate in Elementary Education and a cross-endorsement in Special Education. Dr. Harris has also worked bi-vocationally as a middle school and high school Special Education instructor in the state of Connecticut and as the Assistant Dean in Student Affairs at Tennessee State University, where he obtained his doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2020. His dissertation was entitled “Turning Sentiment into Cents: Understanding Alumni Donor Motivation at a Southern HBCU.” Dr. Harris was inducted into the Morehouse College of Preachers in 2020.

Outside of the pulpit and academy, Pastor Harris prides himself on being a devoted husband and father. His greatest aspirations in life are to be an exceptional father and husband. He holds that after salvation, his wife is the greatest blessing to have ever happened to him. His lovely wife is the former Sherma Nyasha Douglass of the Murray’s Village region of Kingstown, St. Vincent. Along with his wife, Napoleon enjoys spending time with his two spirited daughters Grace, and Kara Joy. He is also a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. Additionally, he has also served civically with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Professionally, he has received various service awards and community recognitions, from newspaper articles to commendations from state officials. God has blessed Pastor Harris with a passion and gift for writing; his work has been published multiple times across multiple platforms, and he has traveled the country lecturing, preaching, and conducting workshops.

ORDER of SERVICE

Installation of Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V Senior Pastor, Antioch Baptist Church

Musical Prelude & Processional

Call to Worship

Selection

Invocation

Scripture

Old Testament

New Testament

“Holy, Holy, Holy”

Rev. Dr. Jason Lawrence Turner

Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church (Memphis, TN)

Worship & Arts Ministry

Rev. Dr. A. E. Owens Second Ebenezer Baptist Church (Cleveland, OH)

Dr. Jeremiah Parks Mount Calvary Baptist Church (Owensboro, KY)

Bishop B. Lee Owens Kingdom Connection Fellowship (Cleveland, OH)

Epistle Pastor Milton Atterberry Hope Christian Ministries (Cleveland, OH)

Welcome Deacon Gabe Bediako and Sis. Deborah Perkins-Williams

Hymn

Statement of Purpose

Greetings

“All Hail the Power of Jesus Name”

Rev. Dr. James Quincy President, Cleveland Baptist Association (Cleveland, OH)

On Behalf of All Elders in Ministry, Rev. Dr. Otis Moss Jr. Fellowship Nashville, Bishop Aaron Marble and Min. Nikki Tolliver

Shiloh Baptist, Rev. Dr. Lisa Goods

Church of God in Christ, Rev. Wardell Harris Cleveland Clergy Alliance, Rev. Lorenzo Norris

Community of Faith Collaborative, Bishop Christian Omar Medina Academic Community, Rev. Dr. William Myers

Greater Cleveland Congregations, Rev. Keisha Krum

Cleveland City Council President, Blaine A. Griffin

Cleveland Clinic Community Health & Partnerships, Leesa Jackson

Installation Offering & Prayer

Rev. Dr. Daniel Corrie Shull Burnett Avenue Baptist Church (Louisville, KY)

Introduction of Preacher Rev. Dr. Jacques Boyd Mount Bethel Baptist Church (Nashville, TN)

Sermonic Solo “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” Lacretia Bolden

Sermon

Rev. Dr. George L. Parks Jr. New Hope Baptist Church (Little Rock, AR)

Invitation to Discipleship Pastor Walter Houston Temple of Praise Church (Cleveland, OH)

Right of Installation

Charge to the Pastor

Rev. Dr. George L. Parks Jr.

Rev. Dr. Marvin A. McMickle Pastor Emeritus, Antioch Baptist Church (Cleveland, OH)

Charge to the Church Rev. Gloria Chaney Church Of The Master (Cleveland, OH)

Prayer Rev. Napoleon Harris IV Second Metropolitan Baptist Church (Cleveland, OH)

Presentation of Hymnal Deacon Anthony Lockhart

Presentation of Vestments Rev. Wesley Toles and Deacon Jacqueline Jefferson

Presentation of Keys Trustee Garland Hairston

Presentation of Pastor & Family Rev. Dr. Jason Lawrence Turner

Remarks

Installation Chair, Deacon Pamela Ashby

Antioch Clergy, Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Gilmore Lady Sherma Harris Pastor Napoleon Harris V

Benediction Pastor Trenton Green St. Clair Baptist Church (Bastrop, LA)

BIO of GUEST PREACHER

Rev. George L. Parks Jr

While born in Nashville, the Rev. Dr. George Lewis Parks, Jr. later moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where he graduated from Lutheran High School East. He went on to pursue his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Pastoral Studies at the American Baptist College in Nashville. Dr. Parks went on to earn his M.Div. degree from Howard University School of Divinity in Washington, DC, where he was awarded the prestigious J.H. Jackson Award for Promise in Pastoral Excellence; his sermon, “Black and Proud” has been published in the African American Pulpit journal. In May 2016, he earned his Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching from Union University School of Theology and Missions.

Dr. Parks’ spiritual journey began under the tutelage of his father who served as Pastor of the New Pilgrim Baptist Church in Dayton, OH where he confessed his hope in Christ. He accepted his call to proclaim the Word of God in 1998 and preached his initial sermon in Cleveland, Ohio at the Sacrificial Baptist Church where his father presently serves as Pastor.

God has given Dr. Parks a diversity of assignments throughout his ministerial career. In Nashville, he joined Watson Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Curtis W. Goodwin, Sr. While at Watson Grove, he was an Associate Minister and the Youth Director. In Washington, D.C., he united with Meridian Hill Baptist Church. There, under the leadership of Pastor Calvin E. Cage, Sr. He later served as an Assistant Pastor.

Following God’s voice, Dr. Parks accepted the call to become the seventeenth Pastor of Riverside Missionary Baptist Church in 2008. He completed his Pastoral assignment to this body seven years later as God reassigned him to serve as the Senior Pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Arkansas with campuses in North Little Rock and Conway.

Dr. Parks continues to build on the legacy and vision of the New Hope Baptist Church and their future continues to shine as the church moves into a new season of building faith and sharing love. Dr. Parks is married to the former Joy Marie Dailey. He is the proud father of George L. Parks, III (“Trey”), Genesis, and twins, Gabriel and Grayson.

The Empty Chair

Friend of God,

By now, you have undoubtedly noticed that there is an empty chair in the pulpit. I want you to know that the chair was left empty intentionally as a tangible reminder of the influence of the many giants in the faith who are no longer with us in the flesh. It is a memorial—a way of coming to terms with the sadness I carry daily that there are people whom I love dearly and who have blessed me tremendously who are no longer alive to share in my happiness or to be celebrants on days like this. This empty chair is not an empty ritual; it is a full-on celebration of hope and thanksgiving and a way of saying thank you to God for blessing me with such people. The empty chair is a full symbol, and it represents the people who have added to the fullness of my life.

The sentiment of this chair is expressed poignantly by John in his apocalyptic masterpiece, Revelation 14:13, that though we may no longer be physically present, our works (our impact) still linger on long after we’ve left the stage of lived existence. The empty chair is a reminder that none of us get anywhere in life without the input of others. It is a way of remembering the Kingdom contributions of all who could not be present today in person. The empty chair is a symbol of impact: it represents every scholar who ever put pen to paper in a meaningful way to grow and foster our Christian faith. The empty chair is for mentors like Rev. Dr. Gardner Taylor. It is for my family’s late pastor, my Granddaddy E.L. Rogers. It is for my college pastor, Rev. Curtis W. Goodwin, who greatly enriched my life and walked me through an understanding of what it meant to be called to ministry. It is for my Uncle Larry, who walked out the faith he taught. It is for my grandparents who ministered from the pulpit of open arms and preached sermons of love endlessly. It is for Eric Wright, Pastor Stephen Sullivan, Pastor Brown, Bishop Ellis, Dr. Bowie, and many more. This chair is for the deacons, trustees, musicians, and other giants in the faith who imparted in me and my wife rich spiritual nuggets that have enriched our lives. The empty chair is a reminder and celebration that the people represented here are now seated with God in Christ.

Please join me in celebrating all the wonderful people of God in my life and your life who are absent from the body, but present with the Lord.

In Christian service, Rev. Dr. Napoleon

WELCOME from the CITY of CLEVELAND

Dear Pastor Harris,

As Ward 6 Councilman and President of the City of Cleveland Council, let me be one of the first to welcome you back “home” to the City of Cleveland.

Antioch Baptist Church has been an important part of the City of Cleveland for nearly 130 years – establishing a vital resource for Cleveland’s Black community, especially as the City’s Black population grew exponentially during the Great Migration of the 20th Century. The church’s centuries-long commitment to the Cedar-Central neighborhood has never wavered.

Today, Ward 6 is home to nationally-recognized institutions including Karamu House, America’s oldest Black performing theatre, the Cleveland Clinic, and the institutions of University Circle – from the world-renown Cleveland Museum of Art, University Hospitals, to the nationally-ranked Case Western Reserve University.

However, Ward 6 is also home to families that also rank nationally in their level of poverty. Together, we are working together to eliminate as many disparities as possible that exist in our neighborhoods, especially within the Fairfax community. For example, the new Cleveland Innovation District (at the corner of E. 105th and Cedar) is under construction, and will include a Meijer grocery store and apartments. Community-based health programming and services are being added to the Cleveland Clinic’s Langston Hughes Community Heath & Education Center – and Karamu House is busy completing its second phase of renovation, including a new streetscape and café.

I am also now thrilled to add the installation of a new pastor to the historic Antioch Baptist Church to the list of exciting developments in Ward 6. We are excited to see the congregation grow and flourish under your leadership as senior pastor.

Congratulations to you, your family, and the entire Antioch congregation!

Blaine A. Griffin

Council President + Ward 6 Council City of Cleveland

The coalition represents over 100 churches and several African American clergies are part of the organization in the greater Cleveland area.

Jeremiah 3:15 “And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge & understanding”.

New Fellowship Baptist Church and

Moderator Frederick Sebastion Knuckles Sr. and Lady Bregina Knuckles

CELEBRATES

Antioch Baptist Church and the Installation of Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V

New Fellowship Baptist Church 1230 Parkwood Drive Cleveland, Ohio 44108 newfellowshiplive.org

ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH BOARD OF DEACONS

Deacon Pamela Ashby, Chair

Deacon John Addison Deacon Gabe Bediako Deacon Saundra Berry Deacon Delores Brown Deacon Tilmon Brown, Em. Deacon Steve Bullock

Deacon Geoffrey Cleveland Deacon Samuel Craig Deacon Derek Dixon Deacon Sandra Fain Deacon Vivian Hairston Deacon Paul Holland

Deacon Jacqueline Jefferson Deacon W. Joyce Jones Deacon Anthony Lockhart Deacon William Moon, Sr., Em. Deacon Willie Nichols

Deacon Chyrel Oates

Deacon Wayne Owens Deacon Dorothy Rambo

Deacon Floyd Rice Deacon Greta Rice Deacon Charles Thigpen

Rev.HNapoleon arris

1 Corinthians 15:58 says, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” Galatians 6:9 admonishes, “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

The Outreach Tower Ministries of Antioch Baptist Church

Evangelism Tower Ministries of Antioch Baptist Church

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” -

The Board of Evangelism welcomes Rev. Dr. Napoleon Harris V and his family to Antioch Baptist Church.

Pastor Harris,

We welcome you with hearts of Love,

Faith that moves mountains, and

Hope that never fails (1 Corinthians 13).

God has entrusted our care to you, and this church is committed.

The Relationship Tower Ministries of Antioch Baptist Church

J. HARRIS V,

Congratulations and Welcome to Antioch Baptist Church

The Antioch Baptist Church Clergy Team

As you walk this new journey, be strong and know that you are not alone.

Rev. Dr. Thomas Gilmore Rev. Dr. Dianthia Gilmore Rev. Dr. Edna Connally Min. Charles Chavers Rev. James Crews Rev. Dr. Gloria Otis Rev. Edward Horton Rev. Carla Jo Howlett

Rev. Napoleon Harris IVRev. Mylion WaiteRev. Wesley TolesMin. Govenor RowellMin. Terry RobinsonRev. Joyce PeeblesMin. Angela McKinney

COMMITTEE LISTING

Search Committee

Deacon Pam Ashby

Deacon Gabe Bediako

Deacon Geoffrey Cleveland

Deacon Jacqueline Jefferson

Deacon John Addison

Deacon Derek Dixon

Deacon Sandra Fain Deacon Chyrel Oates

Rev. Edward Horton

Rev. Edna Connally

Sonya Kimball Candace LaRochelle Antwaine Kennedy Deborah Perkins-Williams

Installation Committee

Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V

Deacon Pamela Ashby

Rev. Dr. Thomas Gilmore

Rev. Carla Jo Howlett

Ann Barnett Garland Hairston Leesa Jackson Julian Hill

Host Committee

Deacon Floyd Rice

Deacon Derek Dixon

Brian Kimball

Constance Walker

Sabrina Heath

Deaconess Karen Rice

Deaconess Courtney Dixon

Sonya Kimball

Joyce Johnson

Brenda Turner

Dorenda Swanson Rhonda Branche

Monica Matthews

a CHURCH’S PRAYER

Dear God:

Thank you for loving the Antioch Baptist Church family so much you sent one of your precious disciples to shepherd our congregation. We are grateful for this moment in history and the opportunity to fulfill your will under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V. We shall be obedient to your will and your Word.

WE PRAY for Pastor Harris as he undertakes this weighty responsibility. We realize that being a leader of a group of people is a big responsibility and charge. We are fallible people. We have a need to share our challenges and shortcomings with our pastoral leader. Our Pastor absorbs our griefs, our sorrows and our disappointments. We understand the weight of the trials of so many can be a burden.

WE PRAY you cover our beloved Pastor with your Spirit of love and give him peace when difficult moments arise. We ask that you soothe him with peaceful rest when he needs restoration and energy to fight battles for which you have already given victory.

WE PRAY you pour out onto Pastor Harris an abundance of inspired wisdom to discern situations and make the decisions you have ordained for our Congregation. We have faith you will walk before Pastor Harris and show him the way in business meetings, worship services, community networks and ministry work.

WE PRAY you protect Pastor Harris from any and all forces that seek to destroy him and this Ministry. We hold fastly to our faith that nothing can pluck us from your hand. In you, we find safety and blessed assurance of the victory.

WE PRAY that we, as a Church community, adorn our Pastor with graciousness, love and support. We pledge to trust in his judgment, honor his decisions and lend a hand when he needs assistance. When we fall short of your expectation, we ask that you forgive us and show us the way back into your good grace.

WE PRAY for a lion spirit to be courageous in the walk that awaits us. We have an expectancy that you have good plans for us. We shall be triumphant in all we do so long as we remain attentive to your will.

WE PRAY these and all other petitions in the matchless name of Jesus the Christ.

Prayerfully yours,

The Antioch Baptist Church congregation

We welcome you.

Cleveland Clinic’s Langston Hughes Community Health & Education Center congratulates Rev. Dr. Napoleon J. Harris V. on his installation to Cleveland’s historic Antioch Baptist Church. Your commitment to the community is an inspiration.

SweetBlessings

Garland Hairston Chair

Boar d of

Barry Fain

Groce

Herndon

Maura Keene Vice

Phillip

Pamela

Jannie Blunt

Tanya Holsey