Church members, clergy, and friends fill the Educational Building to honor their senior pastor, 76 years young
The Breakfast Party was rocking at Gospel Temple MB Church’s Educational Building, 1056 W. 103rd Street, Chicago, on Saturday, October 31st, as the attendees gathered to celebrate Senior Pastor Claudia J. Watkins.
There wasn’t an empty chair in sight. Parishioners, fellow clergy, and friends packed the room for the 8 a.m. celebration of Pastor Watkins’ 76th birthday. At 76 years young, she was surrounded by love and support.
Midway through the program, Pastor Watkins invited guests to share their experiences with her, and the room responded with heartfelt words.
Sister Middleton gave thanks for the pastor’s years. “What a blessing it is to reach this wonderful age. A lot of people don’t make it that far,” she said. “I just ask God to continue to order your steps.”
Brother Jeffrey noted what her leadership means to him. “I’ve always been under male leadership in this church. Never have I sat under a woman this long. That says a lot for you.”
A friend of more than 40 years called her “a force to be reckoned with.” Retired pastor Julius Noble, who attends Gospel Temple with his wife, said he enjoyed the fellowship and the deep conversations about God’s Word at his table.
A Birthday With a Twist
Pastor Watkins turned the tables on tradition by serving her guests. When she heard someone asking what is the cost of the breakfast $20 or $25, she put a stop to it.
“I said, ‘It’s a birthday.’ I wanted to serve you guys and let you know how I appreciate you appreciating me.”
She also reflected on the skeptics she has won over during her ministry, including deacons who once challenged a woman in the pulpit. “When God makes a change in you, you don’t have to tell nobody,” she told the crowd. “He’ll make you love your enemies and be your best friends.”
“I’m what God made me to be,” she said. “It’s not about me. It’s all about Him.”
