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OUR HISTORY
God was working on the hearts and minds of Pastors Jerel and DeShawn Johnson, and a group of believers who wanted to know God more deeply. They began attending Bible classes, studying God's Word, understanding His Word, seeing His Word for what it is, believing His Word and therefore growing more intimate with the Lord. Many of this group had been in church all their lives and were now questioning their long-held beliefs and traditions. Their lives were being transformed.
In September 2005, Pastor Johnson received confirmation that the Master was letting him know that it was time to make a change. On October 8 he knew that his work had been completed at the Wayside Missionary Baptist Church. It was time to move forward.
Pastors J&D Johnson are obedient servants and were able to walk away of their own free-will, led by God. Pastor J&D had no idea what would happen next. When they decided to leave, several members asked them, “Where are we going to have fellowship in the morning?”
God has blessed Pastors J&D Johnson with special friends in Pastor and Minister Tyus, who were right there for them. The Tyus’ gave the keys and permission to use their day care center to Pastor and Elder Johnson for Sunday morning worship. The telephones started ringing, giving the message that service would be held at the Tiny Town University Day Care Center in Southfield, Michigan.
That glorious morning, Sunday, October 9, 2005, the Pastors and their family arrived early at the day care not knowing what to expect. As the cars arrived, they were flabbergasted to see that so many had followed them seeking the Word and a fresh start. On this day, God birthed from a trying situation, a new ministry, EMPOWERING DISCIPLES CHURCH.
Our fellowship moved to the St. Regis Hotel and later to the Athena Banquet Hall because of a remodeling project at the hotel.
Just short of three years, we entered our new Church Home, located at 18250 Church Street in Roseville, Michigan. This was an amazing feat given our short existence and the poor economic climate. We are thankful to God for His grace toward us.
Under the name of Empowering Disciples Church we are free to follow the leading of the Lord without the formal struggles of old. Spiritually, we are strong and getting stronger daily. The membership is strong, committed, and growing.
We are thankful people. First of all, we thank God for leading us. Then we thank Him for allowing us to be intimate with Him, and to stand boldly on His Word.
God has placed an anointing upon both Pastor J and Pastor D and also on the Empowering Disciples Church family. It is our prayer that He continues to show favor on us as we seek to do His will, His way.
Armor Bearers
Called by God to serve and help our assigned leader in life, ministry, and especially in the fight of faith. We are called to attend to, minister to, care for, help, be of use, assist, benefit, promote, support, make easy for, nourish, and encourage our leaders. [
Deacon Ministry
Deacons are the eyes, ears, hands, arms and feet of the pastor. Ordained by the pastor, we serve as the pastor directs, anywhere the pastor feels a need. The deacons work in harmony with the pastor to build up the Kingdom of God; including visiting the sick and those unable to attend church.
Finance Ministry
The Finance Ministry is responsible for the stewardship of church financial resources, including managing the financial aspects of the Church, including weekly offerings, accounts payable, staff payroll, taxes, and insurance. We are responsible for ensuring EDC's financial integrity and communicating the financial position of the Church to the congregation.
Hospitality Ministry
The Hospitality Ministry represents the first impression of EDC by warmly welcoming guests and encouraging all members. The Hospitality Ministry maintains communication with members who are unable to attend services and those who have been away for awhile by visiting, sending cards and letters and making phone calls. We also provide caring support and prayers for bereaved families. The Hospitality Ministry puts our faith into action by seeking to be Godly servants where needed. [Contribute to the needs of God's people [sharing in the necessities of the saints]; pursue the practice of hospitality. – Romans 12:13]
Praise and Worship Ministry - New Adoration
We usher the congregation into an atmosphere to surrender praise and worship to the Lord. The music ministry sets the mood for the congregation to hear the gospel and receive the gift of salvation.
- Lead: DeiDra Zeigler
Virtuous Women of Faith (Victorious Ingenious Righteous Transformed Upright Obedient Usable Saved - Women's Ministry)
A series of teachings that offer a practical approach to dealing with life's issues in a Godly way. It is a challenge to the women to overcome individual wills in order to surrender to God's will for our lives. It provides pertinent instruction on applying Biblical truths to equip women to live-up-to and within our Godly inheritance.
- Lead: Pastor DeShawn Johnson
The Brothers (Men's Ministry)
Monthly meetings (on the fourth Saturday) with the men of EDC centered on Biblical solutioins to real life issues. It is a straight-forward discussion that is frank, to the point with no holds-barred. Women and children are not allowed in these meetings - so men can speak freely, thereby learning and growing together.
Additional EDC Ministries
1. Young Women's Ministry (ages 12 to 25) – 1st Thursdays – 8 - 9pm
2. Married Couples' Ministry - 2nd Saturday, 1:15pm
3. Community Outreach - click here to see Summary
