by Michelle Wilson Bradley —
Vinvecca B. Gray will be officially installed as the senior pastor at Golden Leaf Church, 1439 N. Hollywood, on April 7 at 3 p.m.
“I am still in awe (as to) what God has done,” said Gray. “I grew up in North Memphis and in this church.
Gray, who was ordained in 1992, was unanimously elected the pastor at the beginning of the year with the retirement of Bishop Dandridge Wilborn, who had been the leader for 30-plus years.
Golden Leaf is 100-plus years old and Gray has been a member for about 50 years, serving as a choir member, usher and 26 years as assistant pastor. Her daughter, Rakesha Gray, said, “Despite all her involvement, she never decided or even imagined being in this role, but she has given God a ‘yes’ and the church is growing and thriving.”
Her first sermon was entitled, “Will you say yes (to God) – Hear, respond and obey his instructions.”
Pastor Gray describes Golden Leaf as a community church.
“We have held health fairs, back-to-school giveaways and distributed baskets to neighborhood residents,” Gray said.
New programs she plans to begin this year include partnerships with Promise Academy-Hollywood School, the Hollywood Police Precinct and one that provides food for seniors.
To let the community know of the church’s activities, Gray will host a public affairs show on Channel 17 this spring, moving into the role filled by former pastor Wilborn.
(For more information, contact [email protected].)
