Rev. Dr. Hattie Downer Birthday

A Tribte om

Pastor Norma K. Canty Greetings to you, Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer, my mentor and friend.

What can I say about you, an icon, and most of all a dedicated servant of God who is responsible for me to have received salvation, become a minister, and a pastor. I saw how you gave the strength of your life in the service of God. Many are called but few are chosen.

I would be remiss by failing to comment on the caliber of the mentorship, counseling, and professional leadership you have brought into my life. Your love for the Lord, your kindness, humility and spiritual insight in the Word of God has helped me be the pastor and leader that I am today. You are a gifted teacher and you do it with a certain “flavor” and love.

I am truly thankful and I praise God for all His wondrous works through your prayers for me and my family. I would send my children to Sunday School and one day my daughter asked for prayer for me because I had been hospitalized. You not only prayed for me at the church, but came to visit me.

You came with a blender and vegetables to make me juices to help restore my strength. You said, “This is what my mother use to give me”. You had to walk up six flights of stairs to my apartment because the elevator was broken. You kept coming back to make the juices and pray for me and on one visit, you brought me a BIG Bible which I still have today. You invited me to church when I got better. I said to myself, “I better go to church so I can stop drinking this “carrot juice”. I would still send my children to Sunday School at 105 Knickerbocker. After the church moved to 43 George Street, I started going once a month but then not at all for a while. Finally, on May 14, 1976, I was led to attend church and after the message I gave my heart, soul, mind and body to the Lord and was baptized a few weeks later by Reverend Aaron at Congregation Church of God. As of today, I have been your pastor for thirteen years. How can I not give honor where honor is due to someone who loved people so much that you would go out of you way for a lost soul as I was at that time?

You did not allow me to be a bench warmer. You taught me how to be a true missionary. We visited homes to have Bible study or pray for them if they were sick, you took me to different churches, and traveled together on many trips. In New Mexico and other places, we could not walk far together without the saints stopping us because they were so happy to see you and was amazed that you were looking so good.

You were my first Bible School Teacher in Christian Bible Institute at New Testament Church on Tompkins Avenue. Years later my son, Terrence, would drive you to Freeport Church of God where you were teaching a Bible course. He was still in high school. You said you would go to sleep because he was driving too fast. Even today, you still ask about all my children. Because of early years of Sunday School teaching, they will always remember your love. You have taught the Word of God to four generations of my family.

Your teaching and example of being a servant and holy woman of God are esteemed highly for what you have done for me. God used you to develop an effective servant. The Lord has worked miraculously for and through you.

As you have already proven, to obtain God’s best, we must give our best. To receive we must give.

In all the ways you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, at all the times you can, as long as you can.

On behalf of my family and myself, I can only express my sincere thanks to you for trusting the Lord to use and lead me to carry on your vision, grown from The Urban Outreach Ministry (1975), to a Christian Ministry Center for City/Urban Missions. You blessed me over 30 years ago to go ahead with a vision I had for a Compassion House Community Development Corporation, Inc., which is now serving our community in several social services. Thank you.

I praise God for being obedient to Him to have this Centennial Birthday Celebration and recognize the Cathedral of Joy Church of God’s 40th Church Anniversary. One day last year, as I was in the Sanctuary coming out of the Library of Remembrance, the Lord impressed in my heart and spirit to commit the next year (2014) to plan for this occasion. This is a once in a lifetime event, and I am very glad to have been an inspiration in helping this to be a wonderful time for you. God has truly supplied our every need because it is His will to give others an opportunity to be part of your history and legacy. We give God all the Glory for the great things He has done. We love you.

Prayerfully Submitted, Pastor Norma K. Canty, Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc., Senior Pastor

“ The Pilgrimage of a Pioneer” Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer, affectionately known as “Sister Hattie”, is the sixth of eight children born in Columbia, South Carolina on September 21, 1914 to Early and Ivory (Smith) Downer. Both of her parents were first generation Church of God members, so she was raised in the church. Her father was instrumental in teaching her about God and at a very early age she gave her heart to Christ, loved the Bible, and was eager to learn. In August 1928, the Downer’s moved to Brooklyn, New York where Sister Hattie continued her education in at P.S.3, Girls High School in Brooklyn, and Brooklyn College. While working in a government job in Chicago, she was asked to be the National Youth Field Worker for the Church of God. This assignment entailed traveling throughout the Eastern Seaboard, the South and the Midwest, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Kansas City, and other cities across the nation.

The Board of Church Extension and Home Missions Board in Indiana asked her to do some work for them, teaching Vacation Bible School and working with local leaders in several cities. Sister Hattie taught and served as a role model for young people everywhere she traveled. She was also given the task of helping to raise funds for a well and supervising the concession stand at West Middlesex, Pennsylvania.

She later became the Home Missionary

for Brooklyn, New York.

In 1955, Sister Hattie was ordained and after her mother’s death, she continued the mission work her mother had started.

She became a fixture in the Bushwick and Williamsburg neighborhoods as she labored and visited homes helping mothers cook, clean and get the children ready for public school and Sunday School. She also started giving breakfast to children before the public school implemented it.

Along with her

responsibilities with the work in Brooklyn, New York, Sister Hattie continued her mission work abroad, traveling to help other leaders.

Through her dedicated service, relentless faith, and trusting God, her prayers were answered on June 16, 1974 God gave her a larger building at 43 George Street, where the congregation worships today, an extension of her humanitarian outreach to all who needed help. This building has been utilized to house, feed and clothe children, homeless men and women. Many souls have been saved and ministered to during the last 40 years. In 1987, Anderson College presented Sister Hattie with an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity, recognizing her pilgrimage as one who made the Church of God Reformation Movement what it is today, having served a wide range of desperate human needs with innovation, courage and perseverance. By the grace of God and under her leadership, The Cathedral of Joy Church of God, Inc.

(formerly

Williamsburg

Church of God) became a redemptive

haven

for

the

powerless, hopeless, and homeless and continues to operate as a ministry center for Anderson University students, as well as others involved in urban mission assignments.

Presently, Sister Hattie serves as Pastor Emeritus of the Cathedral of Joy Church of God, Inc. Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer is internationally known throughout the Churches of God and has become a “legend” to many Church of God members and others who have never met her in person.

Though officially “retired”, she never misses a chance to reach out to people of all ages and diverse backgrounds and is a beloved part of the local congregation. Sister Hattie is a humanitarian, educator, and pioneer who traveled great lengths and breadths across the world preaching, singing, teaching as a missionary, and inspiring the young and old with the Gospel message. She spends most of her time sitting quietly reading at home in her favorite chair.

•The History of the Church • Church Beginnings: 1950 – 1974

In the summer of 1950 at the age of 75, Mother Ivory Downer, feeling led by the Lord, actually began the church when she erected a “Big Tent” on Moore Street in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, New York. A loan was obtained from the Church of God Mission Board and Mother Ivory Downer called her vision “Gospel Tent for All Nations.”

It was in this “Gospel Tent for All Nations” that Mother Ivory Downer began to preach to all who came to hear the Word of God. As the weather grew cold, a storefront was secured and eventually a permanent place of worship was found and Mother Ivory Downer named it Williamsburg Community Church of God located at 105 Knickerbocker Avenue, Brooklyn, New York.

The mission church flourished during the early days of the depression. The church was a great help to many families who needed food and clothing. The church received donated clothing and assistance from many Church of God women’s groups. Three separate storefront missions were developed in three different locations; the mission center for worship and classes, a thrift store for those in need, and a recreation and craft center in another store.

Mother Ivory Downer recruited a young pastor named Benjamin Garrison, to assist and serve as a minister in the church and he ministered for two years before God called him to another church.

Additionally, other guest ministers were called to assist in the mission and its ministries. In July of 1973, Mother Ivory Downer went home to be with the Lord, as her labor here on earth was ended.

The church ministry and all of the work it entailed fell on the shoulders of her daughter, Reverend Hattie Downer, better known as “Sister Hattie”, who was ordained in 1955. She soon became a fixture in the Bushwick and Williamsburg communities assisting in whatever way she could to help families. Her pioneering spirit and unrelenting dedication, particularly with children and focusing on education and youth development, continued in the spirit of the church’s Urban Outreach Program which she later started in 1975. Sis. Hattie carried on the work with the help of several ministers and lay persons.

An Answered Prayer: 1974 - 2011 The Williamsburg Community Church of God located at 105 Knickerbocker Avenue became too small and in keeping with Mother Ivory Downer’s and Sis. Hattie’s vision and the persistent prayer and faith in God for a larger place for mission work, God answered their prayer on June 16, 1974, when she was “divinely” given a sizable and centrally- located facility at 43 George Street, Brooklyn, New York. Not only was the building “divinely” given, the name was too. One day while she walking throughout the building, the voice of God spoke to her spirit and said, “This is none other than a Cathedral of Joy.” At last, on May 14, 1975 with rejoicing and praising God for what He had done, Sis. Hattie marched the congregation into its present location.

Sis. Hattie, having an extensive background in missionary service, biblical teaching, spiritual growth, being a mentor and a role model to all young and older people, further envisioned using the spacious church to extend humanitarian outreach to all surrounding communities and other States that contacted her for help.

Among the church’s many uses, it served as a weekend shelter for homeless men and women (Partnership for the Homeless); housing Cuban, and Haitian refugees from Florida 1978-79, center for the Brooklyn College Outreach program which resulted in the graduation of over 100 students; and for several years, students from Anderson University came to Brooklyn through Tri-S (Study, Serve, Share), a summer student service program.

Additionally, the church did Vacation Bible School in the summer, PS 145 Release Time for children to come for recreation during the school year, and Praise The Lord (PTL 700 Club) prayer line, referred people in certain zip codes to the care of Sis. Hattie for prayer and follow-up visitation in the home. Under her leadership and guidance, aspiring ministers were trained in the church, many whom have gone on to become Ministers, Pastors, Evangelists, Elders and laymen in the Kingdom of God proclaiming the Word of God all around the United States. Some of those who have helped in the early days of Williamsburg Community Church were Sister Gladys Davis, Sister Emma Davis Elder- two very faithful women of God. Before and after Sis. Hattie’s retirement in 1985, other ministers and laypersons came to help carry on the vision - Reverend David Cotto, as an Associate Pastor, Reverend Andrew Jennett, as the Senior Pastor from 1988-1991, Reverend Jimmy O. Terry as an Associate Pastor from 1995-2000, and finally Pastor Norma K. Canty as an Associate Pastor who later became the Senior Pastor. Reverend Benny Santiago, Reverend James and Reverend Cynthia Arkord, Deaconesses Irene Gillyard and Mary Cherry were also instrumental in assisting in the ministerial part of the church. The church is still serving as a divine oasis for spiritual uplifting, and a welcoming place of refuge for troubled souls who are receiving clothing, shelter, counseling, prayer, spiritual guidance and salvation.

In 2001, Pastor Norma K. Canty was installed as the Senior Pastor of The Williamsburg Community Church of God and to honor the name that God had originally given Sis. Hattie, “The Cathedral of Joy” and moving forward with the vision, the former church name was approved by the church and amended in 2002 to The Cathedral of Joy Church of God, Inc. After much prayer and seeing a need to reach others in our community, on June 6, 2010, Pastor Norma K. Canty and the congregation welcomed a Spanish congregation (Iglesia Union Cristiana, Reverend Leslie Gomez, Senior Pastor) to reach more Spanish speaking individuals in the community.

In 2011, in order to enhance the ministry for the future work within the community and beyond, the name was amended to The Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc. It’s a New Season: 2011 - Present The Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc. is an extension to our church missions to enhance which we envision its multi-purpose capabilities, spacious use for extended humanitarian outreach and in keeping the visions alive from Mother Ivory Downer and Sis. Hattie Downer, the name was amended in January, 2011. Each envisioned a library and various functioning centers in the building.

Under Pastor Canty’s leadership, she too envisioned and realized that God had a bigger picture for the church building. When she expressed it to Sis. Hattie, she told her, “Move now because NOW is the time to get going in doing more for the Lord in the building”. To that end, a Christian Ministry Center for City/Urban Missions was established. This vision was given to Pastor Norma K. Canty to use one of the large rooms for an Ebenezer Hospitality Dorm, serving as a host site for inner city, local, and out-of-State churches to come to work, train or be trained in Evangelism, Hispanic and English Discipleship training, and for out-of-state missionaries. Currently, Reverend Benjamin and Tammy Santiago, Sherman Street Church of God in Anderson, Indiana are the Overseers of the City/Urban Missions and have coordinated and brought missionaries to the Cathedral of Joy Christian Center Inc. since 2010. The missionaries have set-up The Reverend Dr. Hattie Downer Library and assisted in renovating the Ebenezer Hospitality Dorm, minister to the clients, paint inside and outside the church and donated funds. Some of the partnerships of mission work camp groups include the following churches; The Nazarene Church (Muncie Indiana), Park Place Church of God (Connersville, Indiana), Bethany Christian Church (Anderson, Indiana), Sherman St. Church of God (Anderson, Indiana), East Side Church of God (Anderson, Indiana), and Madison Park Church of God (Anderson, Indiana).

The Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc.’s mission is to express a spirit of love, humility, and compassion with mutual respect to those we are committed to serve as we carry out the vision. We will further our mission by networking with others to promote unity and foster mutual cooperation between other ministries and programs to help empower others to live a better life, and help bridge the gap amongst the many diversified groups living in our communities.

The Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc.’s vision is to continue seeking ways and means to reach those most in need for salvation, social services and the Word of God by providing opportunities to develop ministries to all who are seeking assistance in our multicultural community.

The Master of Ceremony for

The Centennial Birthday Celebration Reverend Dr. Edward Foggs, an ordained minister of the Church of God, is a native of Kansas City, Kansas. He acknowledged his call to the Christian ministry at the Third Street Church of God at the age of 13. His preparation and training for ministry included a strong and supportive family and church, supplemented by undergraduate studies at Anderson University (formerly Anderson College) and Ball State University (Muncie, Indiana). He pursued graduate studies at Anderson School of Theology (Anderson, Indiana), Christian Theological Seminary (Indianapolis, Indiana), and other private and institutional study programs.

• Sherman Street Church of God, Pastor • President of the National Inspirational Youth Convention of the National Association of the Church of God in Middlesex, Pennsylvania (NACOG) • Chairman of the Planning Committee for West Middlesex, Pennsylvania Campmeeting • Director of Urban Ministries for the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) • Associate Executive Secretary of the Executive Council of the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) • General Secretary of the Church of God • Distinguished Minister-at-Large (NACOG) Dr. Foggs is a published author. His articles have appeared in several religious journals. He authored the volume Christ Compels Us (1996) and co-authored the study guide to Black Families and the Struggle for Survival (1974) by sociologist Andrew Billingsley. He also contributed to Building Bridges to Racial Understanding (1967). He was one of several contributors to the volume The Wisdom of the Saints (2003) and Next Steps to Ministry (2007). In addition to his writing, he serves as speakers for churches, conventions, conferences, and ecumenical events.

This year, Dr. Foggs and his wife, Joyce, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They have five adult children – Lynette (Duane) Fontenot; Iris (Kenneth) Wilcox; Edward Foggs; Joy (Bartholomew) Riggins; and Alycia (Hosea) Anderson. They are blessed with 11 grandchildren and one great grandson.

The Banquet Speaker for

The Centennial Birthday Celebration Jim Lyon grew up in Seattle, where he served as an Associate and then Senior Pastor of the Fairview Church (1977-1991). In 1991, he moved to Anderson, Indiana (near Indianapolis) to become Senior Pastor of the Madison Park Church of God. After 22 years at Madison Park, he accepted the invitation to become General Director of Church of God Ministries, providing leadership for the Church of God in the United States and Canada (and networking with the church in 84 other countries).

Lyon studied at Seattle Pacific University and the University of Washington Law School, before taking a post in Seattle with Northwest Airlines. Always fascinated by politics and the public interest, he has worked in many civic and church-related fields, including representing northwest Seattle as a member of the Washington State House of Representatives.

But, it is the Christian ministry that ultimately owned his heart. It is the conviction that Jesus is at work in the world, redeeming and transforming us, that has molded his life and vocation more than any other. Articulate pastor, teacher, and motivational speaker, he became the host of CBH ViewPoint, the English language broadcast of Christians Broadcasting Hope, in 1996; the program is heard worldwide on air and online each week.

In 2011, Lyon released his first book, “Go Ahead. Ask Anything”, published by Stylos and distributed

by Word. Based on a sermon series delivered at the Madison Park Church, the book addresses the top ten questions posed in a community survey asking, “If you could ask anything at church, what would it be?”

Lyon and his wife, Maureen, married in 1978 and have four sons and four grandchildren. Lyon and his wife, Maureen, married in 1978 and have four sons and four grandchildren. He enjoys spending time with his family, jogging, traveling, and Haagen Dazs. He loves politics, current events, and biographies. When asked about his Achilles’ heel, he is certain to reply, “Chocolate ice cream.”

Order of Celebration

“The Pilgrimage of a Pioneer:” Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer September 20, 2014 – 2:00 PM

Master of Ceremony, Reverend Dr. Edward Foggs

The Occasion and Welcome ................................................................................................Pastor Norma K. Canty Introduction of the Master of Ceremony........................................................................ Pastor Norma K. Canty The Holy Scripture Reading .................................................................................................................Proverbs 3:1-6 Reverend Ruth Sellers-Ward Opening Prayer .................................................................................................Reverend Dr. Arthur W. Davenport Praise and Worship ................................................................................. Pastor Jimmy and Minister Joyce Terry Reflections .............................................................................................................................................................................

Dinner is Served

Introduction of Speaker .................................................................................................Reverend Benny Santiago Special Selection ..................................................................................... Pastor Jimmy and Minister Joyce Terry Speaker ..............................................................................................................................................Reverend Jim Lyon Proclamations ................................................................................Church of God Ministries, Anderson, Indiana Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough President President Barack Obama, White House Comments from The Honoree .............................................................................Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer Closing Remarks and Benediction ....................................................................................Pastor Norma K. Canty

New York At the Brooklyn Bridge 333 Adams Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201

Congratulations and Blessings ~Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer~ In celebration of your 100th Birthday, 40th Church Anniversary, and a lifetime of faithful service to the community of Bushwick in Brooklyn, NY

Reverend Dr. Don & Sis. Colee Bethany Senior Pastor

NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH OF GOD 904 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206

“A Church Where Salvation Makes You A Member” “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.”

- I Timothy 5:17

“The steps of a good woman are ordered by the Lord.�

In Honor of

Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer We congratulate Dr. Downer on her Centennial Birthday! Dr. Downer has been a mentor to so many in New York, this country, and across the world. Based on her accomplishments, we have the assurance that her legacy will live on and impact generations following.

Reverend Michael and First Lady Nomey Peynado & Westbury Divine Church of God 911 Brush Hollow Road Westbury, NY 11590

In Honor of Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc., Pastor Emeritus

On behalf of the Centennial Celebration Committee, We wish you a Happy 100th Birthday & th 40 Church Anniversary It is a joy to honor you and celebrate this amazing milestone in your life and ministry.

In His Service, Pastor Norma K. Canty Reverend Norma Gean B. Davenport Sis. Colee Bethany Pastor Jimmy O. Terry Minister Joyce A. Terry Bro. Richard LaGuerre

Our Beloved Reverend Dr. Hattie Louise Downer Today, September 20, 2014, we are gathered here to honor and celebrate Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer’s Centennial Birthday and the 40th Church Anniversary of the Cathedral of Joy Church of God. It is an honor well deserved, not only as a compliment to her past, but as a reflection of the future through the many lives that she has touched and is still blessing even today.

She is a woman of integrity-never compromising in her Christian journey. In all the years we have known her, there has never been any scandal associated with her name.

She serves among us as an upright woman of God. She is always ready to lend a helping hand and give sound spiritual advice to anyone. Truly, Dr. Downer leaves a lasting impression on everyone with whom she meets and greets.

Dr. Downer’s deeds speak far better than anything we can say. She has devoted her life to a host of humanitarian causes. Her activities are so extensive it would seem that one lifetime could not encompass them all, yet, she always found the time to serve and work on behalf of others, shouldering many responsibilities with unfailing humor and grace.

We need not look very far to recognize how our beloved Reverend Dr. Hattie Downer has touched us in some way or other. She has provided shelter, clothing and food to the needy and has pointed many toward the way of salvation. She has nurtured God’s people both physically and spiritually. And, she had given many sons and daughters of the Church of God in this area the opportunity to exercise their call to preach the Word of God in the pulpit of Cathedral of Joy (formerly known as Williamsburg Church of God). No need to write names, because they know who they are because some are here today.

Dr. Downer always says, “Give me my flowers now while I can still smell them.” So, we applaud you for the work you have done, for the seeds you have sown, for the blessings you have shared, and the unwavering love and support you have shown God’s people everywhere you have traveled in the United States of America and abroad.

Forever Grateful, The Cathedral of Joy Church of God Family

First Church of God

110-10 167th Street, Jamaica, NY 11433

Reverend Virginia Robinson, Senior Pastor

Salutes

Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer A Reminiscence Your mother, Reverend Ivory Downer, was a significant resource to the founders of First Church of God and you continued in that role. Just as Timothy’s faith and spiritual growth was influenced by his mother and grandmother (1 Timothy 1:5), you continued the support that your mother started.

May God continue to bless and keep you.

“Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not turn from it.”

-Proverbs 22:6 “This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

-Psalm 118: 24

Congratulations!

~ Reverend Dr. Hattie L . Downer ~ Happy 100th Birthday

Reverend Dr. Arthur W. Davenport, Senior Pastor Reverend Norma Gean B. Davenport & FIRST CHURCH OF GOD, INC. 14-25 Beach Channel Drive, Far Rockaway, NY 11691

We salute you and may God continue to sustain you!

First Church of God is a Cell Church whose mission is to reach the Rockaways and regions beyond for Christ, through developing fully mature disciples out of the unchurched population.

“Building for the Future: Family, Church, and Community�

CONGRATULATIONS

Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer

“God’s Great Centenarian”

“For God is not unrighteous to forget your labor of love, which ye have shewed toward His Name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” -Hebrews 6:10

Brother Selbert Corbin & Family

God’s continued Blessings to

Cathedral of Joy Church of God, Inc. and The Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer, Pastor Emeritus As you celebrate her 100th Birthday and 40th Church Anniversary for spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Lovingly, Edward J. and Myrtle L. Crawford (Cousin and grandson of the late William & Ida Downer Reid)

A Tribute to Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer

I came to Williamsburg Community Church of God in 1984. I was invited by Sister Mattie Bryant after I visited another church that would not accept my sister because she had on pants. It was a snowy Sunday and Sister Mattie was waiting for me at the church door. I met Pastor Downer that day. She accepted me in with love. On that day, it looked like God wanted me to stay there. I started attending on a regular basis under the tutelage of Pastor Downer. She was always teaching you something. The best gift that she taught me was how to LOVE and listen. Pastor Downer has so much love for God and His Word and for children. God told me to be a pillar for this church and I have been serving ever since.

As we begin to celebrate her 100th birthday, I am glad for the opportunity to know her and learn from her all these years. She has already earned her crown in more ways than one. May God continue to bless and keep her.

Minister Julio Diaz

Congratulations Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer You have touched my life in many ways; by the prayers you have prayed, the encouraging conversations we have had together, and by the Godly life you are living.

You are a pillar of strength and a blessing to me.

Thank God for a God fearing and Godly friend as you.

With Love, Reverend Johnnie Mae Hill

Congratulations In honor of Reverend Dr. Hattie Downer, Pastor Emeritus God’s continued blessings upon you.

Evening Light Church of God

308 S. Harper Street, Laurens, South Carolina 29360

Reverend Isaac V. Cropp, Jr., Pastor

We Salute and Congratulate You, Reverend Dr. Hattie Downer,

on being a recipient of God’s grace, mercy, and loving kindness.

He has allowed you to experience these 100 years and we thank Him for sharing you with us. Your teaching, preaching, singing, testimony and witness have been a blessing to the Williamsburg community and beyond. Your encouragement, help, wisdom, faithful and committed service have inspired all of us.

To God be the Glory- He has done great things through you.

Happy 100th Birthday and many more!

United Community Church of God 137-24 229th Street Laurelton, NY 11413 Reverend Dr. Charles Collymore, Senior Pastor

Congratulations & Best Wishes Reverend. Dr. Hattie Downer

In Celebration of Your 100th Birthday!

My life has been enriched and blessed over the years because of your prayers and the time you’ve invested in me and my family.

A Rich Heritage!

I thank you so much for opening your home to me over the years, and still do - a home away from home, all the way from liberty.

God Bless You! MISSION CHURCH OF GOD 112 Buckley Street, P.O. Box 745, Liberty, NY 12754 Reverend RUTH H. SELLERS-WARD, SENIOR PASTOR

“O God thou hast taught me from my youth; and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.”

-Psalm 71:17

Congratulations

Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer

“Wishing you Joy on your 100th Birthday” Capture the joy of your Special Day Singing a melody along the way May your heart be filled with joy and praise Giving thanks to God for all your days!

“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

-Psalm 16:11 The Golden Vessels, First Church of God

14-25 Beach Channel Drive, Far Rockaway, NY 11691

Sis. Doris Hood, President Reverend Dr. Arthur W. Davenport, Senior Pastor

Congratulations In Honor of

Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer On Your Centennial Birthday God has blessed you down through the years.

Oh yes, you came many times to Richmond, Virginia to teach us (as children) the way of the Lord.

Here we are now celebrating a milestone after over 70 years.

God is truly a wonderful God. May He continue to keep you in the hollow of His hand.

Elizabeth Church of God

Reverend Dr. John H. Hall, Senior Pastor 401 Livingston Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07206

Ministry Milestones ANDERSON COLLEGE upon recommendation of the faculty hereby confers upon Hattie Downer “Doctor of Divinity” Given at Anderson, in the State of Indiana, June 15, 1987 Board of Church Extension and Home Missions of the Church of God- 30 years of dedicated ministry and love to the people of Williamsburg. You have given hope to the hopeless and strength to the powerless.

October 4, 1985 New York Metropolitan Ministers Association of the Church of God – Reverend Arthur w. Davenport, President. In recognition of many years of faithful service as pastor and minister in the Church of God. October 4, 1985 Haitian Ministry- for services rendered, and in recognition of her devotion to the cause of the Haitian people and for her evangelical, social and educational work of our Lord. June 4, 1988 Your Spiritual Mother in the Gospel – Pastor Wilma Void– A woman of faith, strength and wisdom through whose ministry I received my Christian Foundation. (A Woman of This Character Titus 2:4.)

The National Association Women Of The Church of God Victory 99 Pioneer Award – for 50 years plus years of Distinguished Service in Home Mission, Evelyn Tolliver, President October 9, 1999.

National Inspirational Youth Convention LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD - In appreciation for your leadership and Lifelong Commitment to Children and Youth Ministry across the country and internationally. October 9, 1999 The Cathedral of Joy Church of God – Honor and Recognition of your 50 years of service to God in your fieldwork, outreach ministry and pastoral leadership (2 Timothy 4:7-8 October 4, 1985 Church Women United in Brooklyn – May our gratitude be renewed in memory and God’s blessings be yours through the years to come. Adele S. Hester, President. November 1983.

The Brooklyn Division of the Council of Churches of the City of New York. Christian Teaching Credits – Parental Effectiveness & Counseling for Coping. May 16, 1987.

New Testament Church of God – 80th Anniversary- Is Honoring Chartered Member Reverend Hattie Downer. I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me. (Philippians 4:13) Reverend Don Bethany, Senior Pastor. November 8, 2008 Williamsburg Community Church of God, 20th Church Anniversary at 43 George Street. In appreciation for your unselfish dedication and faithful years of service in God’s vineyard- Hebrews 6:10.

May 14, 1975 – May 14, 1995 Eastern New York General Assembly of the Church of God Board of Christian Education in recognition of over 50 years of outstanding leadership and achievement in the areas of Urban Ministry and Christian Education. Reverend Norma Gean Davenport, President, February 19, 1995.

Ministry Milestones STATE OF INDIANA – Indiana General Assembly Be It Hereby Known And Proclaimed, I, Terri J. Austin, Indiana State Representative, do hereby take great pride in honoring Reverend Doctor Hattie Downer on the celebration of her 95th birthday and expressing my great gratitude for her many years of service. September 21, 2005 Terry & Associates International Construction Services and Development Corporation, Inc. In Recognition hereby given to The Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer, D.D. of Jamaica Queens, New York – For her long distinguish ministry and services rendered and continued usefulness for “over one-half Century” in “Visionary Missions” is duly personified with the Naming of “The Sparrow’s Nest Center” at “The America’s Five Star International Motel and Christian Conference Center” site. August 20, 1994.

National National Association of the Church of God Pioneer Award. We honor you for your many years of unselfish service and ministry as Urban Pastor, Missionary and Servant Leader to the Local Church, Community, National Association and the Broader Church of God. Even in your retirement years you have continued to serve your local church and immediate community in Compassionate Ministries. 74th Convention – West Middlesex, PA. August 16, 1990 CITY OF ANDERSON Performance, Talent, Inspiration.

Mayor Kris Ockomon Greatefully recognizes and honors the many contributions of Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer to the people of the City of Anderson and for serving as an example of all that can be achieved through a dedication to community “Work Together for the Good of All” September 26, 2009.

The Wiliamsburg Community Church of God - The Cathedral of Joy – Testimonial Dinner Honoring Reverend Hattie Downer. We thank God for a life totally committed to His service. Alphonso T. Shorts, Chairman, and Sister Emma Davis, Co-Chairwoman and Congregation. September 30, 1978.

The Cathedral of Joy Church of God - Appreciation Love Feast at The Polonaise Terrace - Honoring God’s Faithful and Dedicated Servant Reverend Norma K. Canty, Senior Pastor and Congregation. August 23, 2002.

NEWTOWN INVESTORS, INC.- GEORGE H. NUTMAN INC. Donated the building to you and your congregation. The impact of your good work has been effective and has created a proper attitude among the residents of the neighborhood. We congratulate you and know that your efforts will continue in the direction of your original concept. September 1975 The Williamsburg Community Church of God, The Cathedral of Joy Church of God & The Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc. 40th Church Anniversary at 43 George Street. 1974 – 2014

Reverend Early Ora Downer Reverend Ivory Virginia Smith Downer Sister Rebecca Viola Terry Pastor Lillie Moore Brother Raymond & Sister Rose Marie Terry Sister Emma Davis Brother Gilbert Scott Pastor Barbara Coutryer Sister Minnie Irene Gillyard Sister Mary Louise Little Cherry Sister Gladys Davis Sister Marjorie Marie Peirre Brother Alphonso T. Shorts

REVEREND BESSIE M. COVINGTON

Reverend Bessie M. Covington was born March 9, 1911 to the parents of Early Ora Downer and Ivory Virginia Smith in Columbia, South Carolina. Both parents were ministers in the “Evening Light” Church of God. She attended Howard Elementary School and in 1928 while she was a teenager, the family migrated to Brooklyn, New York during the depression years. Shortly after relocating, her parents started a church on 21 Sumpter Street where the family lived and later planted several churches in the New York area. The Lord led her back to South Carolina where she was loved and well known among the Saints. All her adult life she worked very hard, and was recognized with several awards for her achievements and dedication to various ministries. Reverend Covington also served as the pastor of two churches located in Wateree, South Carolina and Orangeburg, South Carolina. She faithfully served under other pastors before and after her own tenures as a pastor.

At the age of 80, she moved back to New York where she lived with her sister, the Reverend Dr. Hattie Downer. She attended the Cathedral of Joy Church of God in Brooklyn where she played the piano every Sunday until her health inhibited her from attending. Reverend Covington is well known for her favorite song, “I Am Resolved” and would sing it along with “Let the Lord Have His Way” all over the Church of God Movement. “Blessed Quietness” is another song she loved to sing and play on her piano at home as well as all the old songs of Zion. She was a very strong woman of God, who often prayed and fasted on behalf of others.

Even as she aged, she continued in the joys of cooking Sunday dinners and invited her pastor and others to fellowship after church. She took care of business at home and was known in her neighborhood as a praying and friendly woman of God. We know that she is with us in spirit and would be singing, “Happy Birthday” to her little sister “Hattie”.

Thank You

Everyone knows that nothing great is ever achieved by only one person.

Thank you to the Centennial Celebration Committee for your dedication to attend planning meetings and execute the demands necessary to lovingly and carefully accomplish the vision to honor Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer in a spirit of excellence.

Also, we are grateful to Reverend Dr. Arthur W. Davenport for allowing the Centennial Celebration Committee to meet at the First Church of God, Inc. in Far Rockaway, NY. The time, energy, and dedication of all the volunteers from the following churches made it possible for this event to be successful: Cathedral of Joy Christian Center, Inc. Pastor Norma K. Canty First Church of God Reverend Dr. Arthur W. Davenport New Testament Church of God Reverend Dr. Don Bethany Westbury Divine Congregational Church of God Reverend Michael G. Peynado First Church of God Reverend Virginia Robinson A very special thank you to Reverend J-Anthony and First Lady Madelin Dargan for the design and publication of this souvenir journal.

THE REVEREND DR. HATTIE L. DOWNER SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION Conception Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer has always believed that education is a major source of empowerment for all people and has dedicated her life to equipping others. During a church meeting in 2002, it was suggested by one of the members, Brother Billy Flood, that a scholarship fund be established to acknowledge the academic achievements of young people. Thus, a scholarship was instituted in honor of Reverend Downer’s lifelong mission and commitment to help others learn. Before long, the church started giving fifty dollar savings bonds to all children that advanced to another grade level. On Reverend Downer’s 95th birthday celebration, the church agreed to modify the savings bond gift to a monetary grant. The Scholarship foundation requirements was also amended, being distributed only to High School graduates who have completed a scholarship application and are enrolled in college.

Donations The Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer Scholarship Foundation is funded by both personal and corporate financial contributions. Donations are accepted to help support Reverend Downer’s dreams of seeing every child achieve their academic goals. Additionally, annual fundraisers help to build a financial base to guarantee that students who graduate high school and, upon enrollment in college, are provided monetary assistance to help further their educational endeavors.

Inspiration Reverend Downer has been and continues to be such an inspiration to countless young people. In an effort to honor her devotion to encourage youth to read, her legacy is carried on by helping students get a start in college. The grant is a small token of love, but enough to at least cover book fees. While some may question whether or not this gesture will make a significant difference, Reverend Downer shares her story: “All my life I always wanted to read books, but I did not have the resources to buy them.

I became an avid reader from a very early age. I would rather read than eat. My mother would tell me to go to bed saying, “You have read enough”. We had a library in our home, which was good because I could not afford to go back and forth to a library. At first, I wanted to be a librarian. I also had an aspiration to be a teacher. Because I could not afford to purchase books when I was growing up, as an adult I started purchasing all types of books, sending cases of books back to my church and community. In my traveling to campground in Anderson, Indiana, I would purchase cases of book. I have a professional library in my church office for people to check out books. I wanted everybody to read.”

-Reverend Dr. Hattie L. Downer