“Why I Love My Church”
(Submitted by members of Great Commission Baptist Church)
  25th Church Anniversary Celebration  

This week final posting

Because of the great leadership of our great pastor, Rev. Douglas Brown.
(Sharon Peevy)

Because we are truly blessed with an awesome leader. He always does everything in unity and togetherness. We always assemble together. My church is loving, caring, and strong in the lord. Also, we have a pastor and first lady we can hug, gracefully. They are always there when we need them. (Donna Hightower)

Because Pastor Brown helps me understand the terminology of the bible. He breaks it down to everyday language. Praise God! (Shelia Neal)

Because I love my pastor’s teachings, preaching and I even like hearing about his crazy sandwiches. I also enjoy the praise dancers. (Eula Brown)

Because I am grateful to the Lord for giving us a pastor/teacher who seeks Him in the feeding of the flock. (Toye Davis)

Because Pastor Brown preaches on a level that I can relate to and understand the word better or having more knowledge about the bible. (Rundee Thomas)

Because I love the way he breaks the word down so that everyone can understand him, meaning (kids, etc). (Shelia Bell)

Because the way our pastor preaches. He always preaches in a way that no matter who you are or what age group you will understand. Thanks Pastor!
(Billie C. Franklin)

Because the sermons are easy to understand and relate to. (LaBarbara Smith)

Because Pastor Brown preaches the Word in ways I can understand & relate to. He truly feeds my soul. (Debra Edmon)

Because this man (Pastor Brown) is an angel from heaven sent. Thank you God!! This is why I love Great Commission Baptist Church!!! (Shadreth Collins)

Because I thank God for the uncompromised, uncompromised, uncompromised, THE uncompromised, Word of God! I love the Word & I love my church.
 (‘g’ Brown)

Because Douglas E. Brown is a compassionate God sent leader, who preaches an uncompromising gospel and makes “God’s Word” so understandable, to everyone, including children. (Ella J. Colley)

Because Pastor D. Brown preaches the uncompromising gospel plus his humble faithful, leadership. (Evelyn Richie)

Because of my pastor. He knows the gospel and preaches it, not sugar coating. (Betty A. Giddings)

Previous Posting

Because Pastor Brown is the greatest teacher & pastor in the world. He teaches from the bible and he also tells what a word in the bible means. That’s great. Thanks Pastor. (Rosie Childoss)

Because Pastor Douglas Brown teaches the unadulterated word of God & the spirit of the Lord dwells in this place! (Tracie Ogletree)

Because of the strong teaching and preaching of the gospel. (Bemedra Wesley)

Because of the wonderful teaching and ministry that Pastor gives.

Because of the great teaching of God’s word. (Alene Price)

Because it teaches the word of God. (Carla Williams)

Because of good teaching, good preaching and each Sunday we learn more about Jesus Christ. (Phillip and Sandra Davis)

Because we serve Jesus. (Zaria David)

Because it equips me to fulfill the Great Commission. (Gardenia Turner)

Because Pastor Brown teaches the word, not a watered down version but the true word. (Rachel Raspberry)

Because of the teaching and preaching of the truth from Pastor Brown.
 (Bro. & Sis. Curtis Marshall)

Because Pastor Brown’s simplicity of teaching God’s word (you have to understand it, to obey it). Bonus: The church is BEAUTIFUL!
(Harriett Wilkinson-Friday)

Because we have one of the greatest pastor, teacher, preacher this side of heaven. Where biblical truths are being taught. And the family of believer’s fellowship is awesome. (Leonard Frank Jr.)

Because I love the way my pastor teaches the word of God. (James E. Reed)

Because I feel fed with the word of god here. Pastor Brown and his wife are great leaders of Christ and offer family activities and support. (Andrea Hollins)

Because of the focus on teaching and preaching of the word of God.
(Earline Franklin)

Because while praying for God’s guidance and direction for a church home. I asked the Lord for a pastor that loved Him and truly trusted Him. A pastor that would teach and preach the word according to His will. I asked for a church family that loved the Lord, their pastor and each other. On February 25, 2007 the church’s 22 anniversary the Holy Spirit led me to Great Commission. Pastor’s message “Help Wanted” I joined that Sunday. I love my church because you can see Jesus when you see the GCBC family. The Lord answered my prayers.
 (Mildred Flanders)

Because Pastor Brown is gifted by God to teach His word. Pastor Brown teaches how to live your life by God’s holy word. (James Adams)

Because my pastor has the fear of God in him. And knowing that, I believe he will teach us God’s way of doing things. Because the head of the church is connected to God. (Kathy H. Brown)

Because of the way in which Pastor Brown teaches the word of God.
(DaJuana Miller- Bogan)

Because my church is led by a pastor who is a godly wise, humble, grace-saturated man. Hearing the word of God gives me strength & courage to face hardships in life and conquer them. (Marilyn Johnson)

Previous Posting

Because of the awesome teacher and teaching I receive every time I come.
(Kyme Thomas)

Because from our pastor I get more connected with God’s teachings and some things I do not understand. I get care from the church when I need help because I do not have family here. (Roy Lee Miller)

Because no matter what Sunday, I receive a blessing I come with my cup empty & leave with filled blessings. (Rosia Jones)

Because the first time I came to this church the pastor gave a sermon about the fisherman and Jesus at the seaside. Not waiting for perfect time but to start now making a change. Since then, whenever I can, I spread the message using my first experience here. I attend when I can. (Jackie Smith)

Because I can hear the word of God from the man of God.

Because the teachings and practices are in compliance with the word of God and my salvation is based on these beliefs, the teachings keep me focused on preparing for Christ’s return; also I believe that Pastor Brown is a God sent preacher/teacher and the members are warm in their reception of others, it’s a church that is heaven bound. (Brenda F. Moore)

Because the teaching and preaching of God’s word is so powerful you just can’t get enough of it, you want to always come back for more. (Glenda Elder)

Because of the teaching that lines up with the word of God. I love my church because of the encouragement not belittling, to learn, to study, and to be held accountable. (Nakita Brewer)

Because I get fed the word of God. (Brigitt E. Graves)

Because I hear the ministers preach the word in and out of season.

Because the way Pastor blesses me with the word. (Thelma Morgan)

Because Pastor Brown feeds us and attends regularly and is not gone all the time feeding others and when he does go to feed others, he feeds us first & then goes back to feed others! Thanks Pastor Brown, it means more than you know!
(Carlin Caliman)

Because I moved back to AZ in 99 & throughout the years I always thought of GCBC & the powerful sermons that Pastor Brown delivers as well as the warm & giving members of this church. I was finally drawn back in 2008 & I am here to stay!!(Valarie McClinton)

Because I love the people in our church. I also love the preaching and teaching of Pastor Brown. (Delores Jones)

Because the spiritual food I’m receiving here is off the chain! (Glendoria Glover)

Because we have a caring and great pastor.

Because simply put, “The Word! (Veleria Brown)

Because I love the awesome word Pastor Brown preaches Sunday after Sunday and how I leave spiritual fed. Praise God. (Sandra Hollie)

Because this is where I am fed the word of God and receive the teachings of God weekly. I praise God for my church and my church family. To God be the “Glory”. (Mary Estell)

Because Pastor Brown makes the message seem especially tailored for me.
(Phillip Trotter)

Because the sermons Pastor Brown speaks are always interesting, inspires me and I need to hear. It always seems to be about me. One of my favorites was today, “Connected for a Purpose”. I try to use each thing I learn in my day-to-day living. I can understand and comprehend what he says. (Frances A. Braswell)

Previous Posting

Because the presence of the Lord is here! (Trent & Gail Walters)

Because I have received nothing but love since the first day I visited. (Patryce Wilburn)

Because me and my wife noticed that everything we do in this church is backed by the word of God! That alone gives us a since of peace, joy, love that only comes from God Himself. (Fred & Connie Smith)

Because God’s grace, God’s mercy, and God’s word are all around us in this place (GCBC). (Peggy Tolbert)

Because this is the place where God is blessing His people. (Aaron C. Williams)

Because Jesus is here. (Shawn Chadwick)

 Because everyone is so nice and welcoming. The choir is awesome; the band is great and since me and my wife have been attending we are filled with joy, peace and well being no matter what our situation. (Robert Wingfield)

Because my pastor believes in strengthening the family through the “word”, not opinions. (Sandra Henry)

Because “every” Sunday, Wednesday or otherwise, I receive an A+ sermon which inspires me to continue to be a better person in whom Christ will be pleased! (Kay Adkins)

Because it’s a family church with a lot of love.

Because it fits my family & me. Also the pastor is down to earth.

Because I am fed every time I walk through these doors. (Lakedra Parker)

Because the word is always uplifting and powerful. (April McBryde)

Because of receiving the word of Christ & the fellowship of the saints.
(Gwen Miles)

Because God sent me to GCBC in 1998 to connect with my new family; they are warm caring and very loving. This is the only family I have in the world. Thank you GCBC. (Gloria Morris)

Because it is so wonderful. It is my family away from home. You opened up your hearts to love and care for me and my little girl. We have a pastor with a vision and a wife whose heart is pure and true. (Janice Thomas)

Because it is the most wonderful church filled with the most beautiful people we have ever seen. Every hue of every color of every one of God’s people is present here. We love you. (Maurice & Richelle Curley)

Because it is a loving learning environment. It has helped nurture my family and helped us to learn the word of God. (Winston Family)

Because I know my church loves me. (Diana Pace)

Because God’s love is colorblind and so is GCBC’s. [G-C-B-C Godly Colorblind Brothers & Sisters in Christ]. (Norma Valdez)

Because it is filled with God’s word, people, and His spirit. Also, members are willing to serve in ways catered toward the talents God has blessed them with. (James D. Reed)

Because everyone is so loving and encouraging. (Benita Reed)

Because the people are very loving and caring. ( Nyesha Jackson)

Because all are welcomed no matter what nationality or age you are or what ability or disability you may have! (Lynn Porter)

Because it is of God and God’s love. (Bobbie Norwood)

Previous Posting

Because when I was lost someone said follow me and they lead me here to a family that greeted me with love and more love so deep I could feel the presence of God’s love through them. (Elizabeth Nash)

Because we are like one big family that loves Jesus Christ and God and we are all connected to Jesus Christ and God. (Kiana Winston)

Because I think that GCBC is a place where love is displayed at all times and Pastor Brown is the best because he is always showing his love and his light is always shining. He and his family is love. (Glenda Gunter)

Because the fellowship is great, sincere, and loving. Pastor Brown is a great leader in the faith and yet still so humble. This is why I joined GCBC!!! (Lareda Parker)

Because this is a church full of loving people and I am learning the word of God straight from the word!! (Anastacia Lee)

Because I always feel the spirit in church and also in me. There are people who care for you and I feel there is someone to help you when in need. (Jocelyn Brown)

Because it offers a warm smile, warm hug, love, encouragement, and teaching of God’s word. (Arlanda Cook)

Because my church is a gift from God. My church shows and gives me love and a home to call my own. I love my church each and every day. (Deborah Adams Shirer)

Because we are a family and we pray together. (Troi Coleman)

Because we are a family in Christ. (Kennedy Thomas)

Because no matter where I move or how long I’m one, I’m always welcome back graciously and lovingly. (Brandi Shields)

Because we have warm and loving people. (Carvin E. Brooks)

Because they teach us how to pray and as we got God on our side we don’t have anything to be afraid of and bring us closer to God. (Riah Me’sha Anderson)

Because each and every Sunday the word that comes forth at my church helps me to be a better student and through the peer pressure in high school it allows me to set a Christ like example in my daily decision. (Justice Henderson)

Because when I reflect back on the statement that I wrote down on 3-22-06 during Wednesday night Bible class from my pastor stating, “The basic meaning of death is separation, it doesn’t mean that one doesn’t exist”, and on 3-23-06 my mother is called home, it shows evidence that my pastor, the shepard of GCBC feeds his sheep and prepares them for what is ahead. (Shirley Williams)

Because I learn to pray. (Jordan Askey)

Because I learn about God. (Mario Dailey)

Because they make it so fun to learn about God. (Mark Reed)

Because I live, laugh, learn the word of God. (Cassandra Baxter)

Because it keeps me grounded and sane. (Renee` Fleetwood)

Because it has given me so much; it is a bible based; loved; spirit filled church that captured me at a time when I really needed Christ. (Dionne Adams)

Because the people in it make me feel so welcome. (Cory Moody)

Because it is a bible teaching church and is concerned for the family.
(Willa-Milligan)

Previous Posting

Because of humble hearts.

Because I have a good pastor and the member are friendly. (Bernice French)

Because although we are a mega church, most are loving, kind, and humble.

Because of the growth of this community and serving all the needs of our entire community. (Dion Varnado Sr.)

Because our pastor is a great pastor, teacher, and he is a blessing to others. When people are blessed they are happier and friendlier. The peoples at Great commission are friendly. (Priscilla Tatum)

Because the love Great Commission shows reaches beyond the walls of the church and stretches out into the community for both spiritual and personal support. (Kenneth Davis)

Because most of the older women are very kind to me. (Rachel J. Wade)

Because it is friendly and courteous. (Odist R. Smith)

Because I’ve been going to GCBC for 13 years and the friendly atmosphere has been great. GCBC has helped me grow from a teenager to the man of God that I am today. To God be the glory. (Paul Jamison)

Because I was welcomed. (Jonathan Dancer)

Because it is a good training ground to know God. (Sydney Hoosier)

Because I have three homes. My physical address, my church home, and my heavenly home. GCBC is the church home that has prepared me for my heavenly home. (Sherry Willis)

Because my husband was having problems and he was drinking a lot. We are here and now we are blessed and happy he no longer drinks or drugs. He has changed. I do thank you with all my heart for giving us the chance to be saved and baptized together. God bless you. Love you Jesus. Lord always. (Cecilia Wingfield)

Because when I first came to Great Commission I was welcomed all over the store front. I’ve been here for over 14 to 15 years; I’m loving ever bit of it; very helpful when I need it; good teaching and preaching; good loving family. (Love you) Pastor Brown & Sis. ‘g’. (Betty Lewis)

Because no matter how large we become, Pastor Brown still fellowships at the front of the church after service. (Cassandra Burton)

Because out of all the people that attend our service, my pastor and first lady know me by name and when I don’t attend it worries them, that’s good news!!
(Shimeka Brown)

Because of the servant heart of Pastor Brown and Sis. ‘g’ our loving church body who faithfully engages in kingdom work without the walls and in the community, not just religion. (Juanita Nevels)

Because even though the size of the church is great and the members are many, I am able to come and speak with Pastor or First Lady without scheduling an appointment or going through security clearance. (Mernika Thomas)

Because 1 day or 25 years, I am important at Great Commission Baptist Church. (Felicia Holland)

Because our pastor keeps it “Real”!  Pastor Brown & Sis. ‘g’ set the example of how we should walk the walk and not just talk the talk. (Tameka Rhodes)

Because it was love at first sight. I fell in love with BCBC 9 years ago for the personal reception from our membership. Pastor Brown receives each member with open arms and I am known by name rather than a number. (Mavis Smith)

Previous Posting

Because I know I will always receive confirmation and new revelations of the word from my Lord and Savoir Jesus Christ. (Melodi Phillips)

Because this church has taught me that no matter what, if I live my life according to God’s teachings and word, nothing and no one can deny me the kingdom of God. (Julius Friday)

Because of the message from God through a God fearing man who preaches from the word. Plus the opportunity to join the many ministries to further the need of reaching the masses. (Jefri Willis)

Because of GCBC’s infectious mission of serving and sowing into, and strengthening others. This invokes a Godly attitude that led to a Christ-like lifestyle for my family and I. (Sam Birdine)

Because there are so many ministries to choose from and the pastor is an awesome man of God. (Wendell Huckaby)

Because we have built ministries, we have reached saints, we are taught the word and our families are strengthened. (Patricia A. Hudson)

Because all people and all talents are encouraged to participate in a ministry. (Andra Haskins)

Because this church is concerned about “Every” soul that is here. This church has a ministry for every age. They attend to all of their member’s spiritual needs, no matter how young or old. (Antronette Mayfield)

Because we have family month and everyone is together. (Kayln Baxter)

Because we have strong teaching ministries. GCBC offers numerous opportunities for me to grow in God’s word. (Flornstine Mack)

Because of the fellowship of the members, when I come to service my spiritual needs will be and are fulfilled, and the different ministries, especially the youth ministries. (Astonida H. Draper)

Because GCBC as allowed me and my girls to grow more in Christ through the various ministries that area available to both of us. (Tomina Lehman)

Because GCBC is a family oriented church. There is never a boring moment at this church. There is always something going on. If you are a bench warmer or feel no one misses you, it’s your fault because there are plenty of ministries here. Join one. (Arthur Henry)

Because we have so many opportunities to serve. There are such a variety of ministries. There is something for every member of our family to become involved in. We are here to serve and there is no excuse not to with all of the ministries GCBC offers. (Gerald & Keiron Gipson)

Because of what it gives me. It makes me want to learn more about what God says in His word.

Because it you me connected back with God. (Debra McGhee)

Because I learn a lot of things in Sunday school. (Christian Scroggins)

Because I learn so much about God, not just on Sunday. I have a choice: grown up church or children’s church to learn about God. (Ny’Ara Willis)

Because I like going to Sunday school. (Dasiah Huckaby)

Because Rev. Estell always has great energy and exuberant passion for serving the Lord. (Mario & Valerie Layne)

Because Pastor Brown has treated me like a true member of this church, especially when I got married. I came here as a temporary interpreter 9 years ago and I am still here! Rev. Howard has been a real joy working with the ladies and sign language ministry. I really appreciate it a lot! I love God and I love this church & Pastor Brown & I’m glad God placed me here. (Monique Bowen)

Because it has a family atmosphere. (Malik Johnson)

Previous Posting

Because of the word that flows from the pulpit. It has enriched my lifted. I have grown close to God and have been exceedingly blessed. I am changed.
(Helen J. Jones)

Because the word of God is being taught and lives are being changed!
(Vincent Adams)

I walk in…I walk out…At the end of the day, I find myself blessed.
(Terrance Graham)

Because I recognize the voice of Jesus whenever I hear my Pastor teach or preach thus it gives me joy and the confidence to follow his leadership and believe that he truly holds the great doctrines of the grace of God and has been blessed exceedingly in the gathering of souls and the building up of the church into prosperity. I can always come to GCBC with great expectations.
(Phyllis C. Johnson)

Because my church has shown me that one person can make a difference by living a life for Jesus Christ. (Jacqulyn Hodge)

Because no matter how I am feeling before I get here, my spirit is always lifted higher before I leave. (Andrea Raspberry)

Because I always leave service with something to apply to my life or someone else’s life. (Leshaunne Coleman)

Because if you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord and saver you can and be a changed person. (Blake Ingram-Everett)

Because I love the arcade and the gym. (Haven T. Daniels)
Because we make everything fun. (Blake Jones)

Because it has lots of teenager activities. (Breanna Smith)

Because when I am praying about daily situations, or something in a spiritual sense, I come to my church and receive a confirmation. (Gaynell Henderson)

Because of the beautiful choir. (Felisha & Reginald Pullen)
Because the church reached out to me and my family.  If we need a hand, the church helps us. They pray for whatever problem you have. The church keeps us lifted up. (Michelle Marshall)

Because it is a hospital full of hurting people, but has the vaccine needed for your cure “Jesus”. (Faye Abraham)

Because we are taught here that Jesus is Lord, to take up our cross and follow Him. God sent Jesus to save us and God is faithful to redeem and restore. (Pat Cain)

Because for an addict like me, it’s the place to be. My pastor teaches me no one is better than me because Jesus as set me free! I thank God for delivering me. I love you Pastor Brown. (Debbie Colbert)

Because I am always being prayed with and for. Biblical fed and scripturally led by my pastor. The teaching and preaching of the Good News about the blue print in Psalms 127:1. Praise God!!! (Estella Louise Maddux)

Because it gives hope to all the people that have sins they wish they could take back. (Trystan Carr)

Because of the ministry that I am apart of. Greeting people, you never know when a person may need a hug or just to hear some encouraging words from a believer. (Beverly Moody)

Because you can learn about Jesus and the Lord. (Talib Chaska)

Because of dedicated leaders in the body of Christ. (Minister Yolanda Shields)

Because it is a good place to grow in the Lord and there are truly God lead leaders and teachers in the house. (Linda Fontaine)

Because when I walk through the doors I can go into the spirit of the Lord.
(Neta DeBost)

Previous Posting

Because I have grown spiritually since I’ve joined and I have learned a lot from Pastor Brown about the bible and I thank him. (Patricia Gross)

Because I have been blessed with lesson and sermons that not only provide information, but also challenges me in my spiritual growth. (Sarah M. Mack)

Because the church showed me that the bible grows with me. (Stephanie Dancer)

Because I love all the services and the people are great, but I especially love my church because of Wednesday Night Bible Study-because I’ve really grown spiritually. (Naomi Lovings)

Because of the growth I’ve seen in my life. (Anthony D. Jones)

Because Great Commission is a refuge from the outside world, where nothing or no one can harm me! It’s my charging station for the energy to handle whatever is out there. When in doubt I’m reminded by Pastor that God is on my side!
(L. Johnson)

Because since I’ve been here I’ve grown spiritually and understand the word better being under Pastor Brown’s teaching and preaching. (Lydia Clark)

Because I can feel the power of the Lord in the church. (Cleo T.)

Because it gives me strength and encouragement to make it through the week. (LaSonya Hughes)

Because there are many times I come to church feeling down and believing I can’t go on. But once I am in the house of this wonderful church, I stop doubting because I know God has a plan for me. (Jasma Henry)

Because GCBC is not perfect, but we are growing toward perfection through God. (Gwen Campbell)

Because my church family means a great deal to me. They are my support and encouragement. They hold me accountable to stay true to God’s word.  (Mae Malone)

Because during my storm my pastor and church family showed and shared lots of love to me by praying, caring, helping, blessing, encouraging and most of all speaking God’s word to me. They practiced what they preach and teach.
 (May Jones)

Because they give their best. My father was in the hospital and Pastor Brown came and he didn’t know us. (Billie Melissa Ober)

Because people really do care about us as a church. GCBC has helped me so much. The church is big, but it still feels like a loving environment. (Jasmine Lovings)

Because when my grandmother passed away I can’t find the words to describe how devastating it was for me and my family, but my church was there for us when nobody else was there to help see us through our time of grieving.
(Dontoya Rosha Branch)

Because it has a giving and serving spirit that allows us to be there for anyone in their time of need. (Debra Davis Strong)

Because during the illness and untimely death of my husband of 34 years-  Pastor, First Lady, and all top care units were there for me, including hospital visits attending the wake and funeral, and providing days of food for us. (Alice Mathis)

Because I been going through a lot of storms in my life. So I came to Great Commission. (Charlesia “Bam Bam” Ann Hightower)

D-Divine      I-Inspirational       V-Victorious        A-Anointed.
(Trina R. Garrison)

Because GCBC allows me to feel comfortable enough to come as I am to praise and worship God!!! (Sabrina Williams)

Because I can be myself. (Barbara Simpson)

I can see the presence of the Lord, not only in the “first family” but in the members of GCBC as well, making me feel comfortable to worship, welcomed, and loved! (Terica Brager)