Still Standing: Restoration Church Celebrates Bishop Michael Bonds Sr. and Pastor Dr. Vera Bonds’ Silver Pastoral Anniversary
Twenty-five years. Three children raised. Two doctorates earned. Two books written. Two relocations. And one 17-year battle with cancer — won. When Bishop Michael Bonds Sr. and Co-Pastor Dr. Vera Bonds say this year’s Silver Pastoral Anniversary at Restoration Church was “the best one ever,” they mean every word of it.
The Best Year Ever — and Why
When asked what made this anniversary stand above the rest, the answer was immediate and deeply personal. Pastor Dr. Vera Bonds has survived a 17-year battle with cancer. This year, both she and Bishop Bonds are healthy, standing side by side, and more grateful than ever.
Their theme, Standing on the Promises of God drawn from 2 Corinthians 1:20, was not chosen casually. It was chosen because they have lived it.
“More grateful to be supported and honored by our members,” they told 3:16 Magazine of this milestone year — a sentiment that filled the fellowship hall along with the silver and white décor that shimmered and glowed throughout the celebration.
A Month-Long Celebration
The Silver Anniversary was not a single evening — it was five Sundays of worship, reflection, and praise throughout the month of May, concluding on the 5th Sunday. Each week featured guest speakers who reflected on the theme and honored the journey of their Bishop and Pastor. Among those who shared the podium were Min. Henry Kyles Jr., Bishop Bernard Sutton, Rev. Dr. Sarah Riley, Min. Betty Pace, and Min. Jennine Coleman.
The musical entertainment was equally spectacular. The Gifts of Praise with Minister Arthur Sutton, The Sax Preacher, and The Dirty Church Band brought live music that touched every generation in the congregation — a joyful sound for a joyful occasion.
The Pastoral Support and Concern Committee worked diligently behind the scenes to coordinate every detail, setting a stage worthy of the milestone being honored.
A Journey That Reflects God’s Faithfulness
The story of Bishop Michael and Dr. Vera Bonds is one of extraordinary perseverance. They began their ministry from their home, relocated twice before settling at their current location at 8758 S. Peoria in Chicago, and navigated every season of life — parenthood, education, illness, and growth — without letting go of their calling.
Both are now scholars holding doctoral degrees. Both are published authors. Bishop Bonds’s book What Love Has Joined Together tells the story of their love. Dr. Vera Bonds’s book Women in the Pulpit speaks to her place in ministry. Together, they are a testament to what a partnership grounded in faith can produce.
Twenty-five years later, Restoration Church is still standing — because its shepherds never stopped standing on the promises of God.
Congratulations, Bishop Michael Bonds Sr. and Pastor Dr. Vera Bonds. Amen.
