The Black Lens
Ernest McClain turned 90 years old in May and has been a parishioner and servant of Bethel A.M.E. for decades. He is considered a voice of wisdom, one who leads by example, as he still shows up to support church functions, lending his hands to do work when needed. On Sunday May 19th, he was honored in front of the congregation with a Servant Leadership Award, for his “many years of dedicated service to Bethel A.M.E. Church.”
As he gave McClain much deserved recognition, Pastor Benjamin Watson, Sr. said, “He doesn’t say a lot, but when he speaks, we all listen.” In accepting his award, McClain, standing humbly and assuredly, stated, “I am here because of God.” He was joined by his daughter, Patricia McClain and his wife, Carol McClain.
As a reflection on why fathers are important, Brother Mac (as he is affectionately called) said, “Being a good father is important to everyone around you; your kids need to have someone to look up to and get advice from. That is a good father.”