For Bishop David A. Hall Sr., Monday (Nov. 7) was the day of his dreams.
“It was a completely humbling experience,” said Hall. “From my election to the (Church of God in Christ) General Board in March of last year, until now, I have been so grateful to God for the favor and elevation He has seen bestowed upon me. My Inaugural Banquet will be a night I will never forget.”
And what a grand spectacle it was, taking place as an estimated 20,000 converge on the Memphis this week for the 114th Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC).
More than 1,000 gathered to dine in formal attire at the Holiday Inn-University of Memphis ballroom. A sea of long, black gowns and dark suits created a stylish expanse of elegance.
As Hall and his wife, Mary Portis Hall, a d parade of dignitaries and their representatives delivered tributes and congratulations for Hall’s election and ascension to the Board of Bishops.
Mayor Jim Strickland sent a city of Memphis executive to present Hall with a proclamation.
“Welcome home, COGIC,” Ken Moody said before addressing Hall. “It is so good to have you back, and we’re going to do everything we can to keep you here where you belong.”
Moody received thunderous applause as he presented the proclamation to Hall.
Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris sent a proclamation to Hall as well. The document was sent for the occasion prior to the event.
Colleagues and dignitaries both within the International COGIC and with other religious organizations, showered Hall with gifts and tributes.
A silver goblet, a framed portrait of Hall —the gifts and tributes seemed almost endless.
“It was truly the stuff of dreams,” said Hall. “I was just so grateful. Everyone was very kind and gracious. The Lord has blessed me to enjoy some quite extraordinary and memorable occasions in my life. But that night was beyond even what I had imagined. I will remember it always.”
Hall has served as CEO of the COGIC Publishing House. In 1991, he became pastor of the historic Temple COGIC, started by the congregation’s revered founder, Charles Harrison Mason.
Hall is a celebrated author, gifted musician, and writer of the critically acclaimed “Essays to the Next Generation.”
Hall is the father of two sons, Elder David Allen Hall Jr., and Elder Thomas E. Hall. Hall is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
