By Denease Chestnut
On October 24, 2010, Oakland Full Gospel Holiness Church dedicated a Prayer Garden in Honor of the Pastor and Founder of the church, Kenneth C. Cox and Pastor’s wife, Darlene.
This couple has been an inspiration to the church for over 20 years. Even ministering to a small crowd at times, they never gave up on the spiritual growth of the church. Now, with caring and hardworking members of the church to join them, the church is growing strong. One thing I can say about Pastor Kenny, he is not about the numbers of the church. He is about getting people to come and give their hearts to God and faithfully serve in a church. “Souls being saved”, he has preached on this more than one occasion.
The members of the church wanted to honor the pastor and his wife for their faithful service to the congregation…a prayer garden was the number one choice. There was a place between the fellowship and the church that was sort of a sore eye. So the plan was a Prayer Garden.
The Prayer Garden has a very tall cross made out of railroad tiles. The ground is covered with white rocks.
In the center of these rocks is a walkway with steppingstones in the shape of a cross. There is a bench on the left and right side of the walkway. There is also a large beautiful cement flowerpot with different kinds of plants in front of the tall cross. This project was accomplished with the help of members donating money. The majority of the money came from quarter-folders. It was funny at times. People in the church were constantly handing quarters to certain people. One would have thought it was a contest; but it was fun! Several members took the time to go out and ask for quarters. One would be surprised to what coins can add up to. It takes working as a group to get things done. You can do anything you set your mind to as long as you have faith that God will provide a way. We can’t fail as long as God has His hand on it.
The Prayer Garden is made for anyone who is unable to go in the church when they really need to feel close to God. This gives anyone a place to sit and meditate with God in a lovely scenery.
Pastor Kenny and Darlene Cox had no idea this project was in honor of them. They were very surprised and very appreciative. The church wanted to show them how much they meant to us and our appreciation for everything they have done and will continue to do for us as a church family and as our friends.
To our church Pastor Kenny and Darlene Cox are the true meaning of Christianity. They do not judge people for their past, and they believe people can change for the better. They try to see good in everyone.
After all, we are all God’s children, and He loves us equally.