Mayor Brandon Johnson proclaims “Rev. Dr. Davis Day” in Chicago at golden jubilee banquet
On Friday, November 6th, Rev. Dr. A. Edward Davis Jr. celebrated his 50th anniversary in ministry at Tuscany Falls Banquets, 9425 W. 191st Street, Mokena. The evening drew political leaders, pastors, and friends for what organizers called an affair of “gospel royalty.”
Guests were greeted at a meet-and-greet, where Rev. Davis thanked attendees and took photos. Radio host Rev. Tim White opened the program and introduced the mistress of ceremony, WVON gospel host Pam Morris-Walton, who quickly took command of the room. She called 50 years in ministry a monumental milestone, joking that Pastor Davis has written enough sermons to fill the Library of Congress. She also led the room in a standing salute to First Lady E. J. Davis.
Entertainment came from the Charlie Johnson Quartet, featuring Peaches Faison. Dr. Jarvis Hanson introduced the honorees and led the prayer.
A Day in His Name
The evening’s biggest surprise came when Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson arrived in person and proclaimed Friday, November 6th, “Rev. Dr. Davis Day” in Chicago.
“He is a longstanding pillar in the church and a pillar in our community,” Mayor Johnson said, praising Davis’s work for helping neighbors affected by poverty, food insecurity, and violence. “Our pastor’s faith, vision, and dedication have touched countless lives and strengthened the community.”
Tributes From Those Who Know Him Best
Trustee Peter Austin credited God’s hand over the five decades. “God gave you the vision,” he said. “The ups and downs, the people that left, the people that told us we couldn’t do it, but God.” Austin said Davis stood with him through storms and loss, adding, “There’s nothing that I won’t do for him.”
Commissioner Shamika Leach of the Markham Planning and Zoning Board, who attends Greater New Mount Eagle, said, “We’re here tonight celebrating the pastor’s 50th anniversary, and it’s a great celebration. We’re here amongst friends.” Janice Johnson said she would “do anything and everything” to support her pastor.
A Life of Planting Seeds
A biographical tribute described Davis’s life as one of planting seeds with deep roots. Born May 2, 1951, he is the second of six children of the late Dr. A. Edward Davis Sr. He grew up in Chicago’s Morgan Park community, attended John D. Shoop Elementary and Morgan Park High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from Trinity College, and went on to a master’s degree in theology.
The tribute noted that for 45 years, he has taught the new members class nearly every Sunday, and that across 50 years he has preached thousands of sermons, performed baptisms, counseled couples and families, and officiated weddings and funerals. He has also built two churches.
The celebration continues Sunday morning with a worship service, followed by a casual fellowship meal downstairs.
