Cathedral International Honored at NBTS
September 1, 2012
On September 5, 2012, Bishop Donald and Pastor Phyllis Hilliard - along with representatives of the Cathedral International congregation – were honored with the 2012 Esther Award at New Brunswick Theological Seminary.
The Esther Award recognizes those whose behavior in the public sphere gives witness to a strong foundation in Christian faith and ethic. The Esther Award is given to acknowledge those whose belief and commitment to the Gospel enable them to rise fully to a Christian response in the face of public turmoil. The Esther Award consists of two prizes: a commemorative gift to the Hilliards and the Cathedral congregation, and the naming of a NBTS Seminarian as the Cathedral International Scholar. The student, Jackie Jackson, received in the name of Cathedral International a one-year scholarship which will cover all of her tuition and fees.
More than 100 years ago, Cathedral International (The Historic Second Baptist Church) was established to change the social, spiritual, cultural, educational, economical and physical course of African Americans in the City of Perth Amboy. Since that time, the church has expanded its reach beyond the City of Perth Amboy and beyond racial and cultural lines.
Cathedral Internationals broad outreach efforts resulted in the establishment of the Center for Help Opportunity Self-Sufficiency and Education resource and referral center. CHOSSE serves as a much needed blessing for individuals coming off welfare and in need of supplemental support services to ensure job retention in areas where the church has a community development presence. In addition, The Cathedral Community Counseling Center provides services to those experiencing personal, social and spiritual struggles.
Jennifer’s Joy in the City Child Development Centers mission to love, nurture and train our children in the way they should go& is a wonderful example of Jesus admonition to suffer the little children to come unto Him. Annually, hundreds of children and families experience Gods love through Cathedrals Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and Back to School give-a-ways. Ultimately, the church extends Gods blessings to many more through the Mercy House in Perth Amboy and weekly Soup Kitchens in Perth Amboy, Asbury Park and Plainfield, which provide dry food goods, hot meals, health screenings, on-site HIV and diabetes testing, clothing and referral assistance for all who are in need, regardless of race, age or income.
These programs and services offered by Cathedral International embody the very spirit of the New Brunswick Theological Seminary Esther Award. Congratulations to Bishop Donald and Pastor Phyllis Hilliard, and the entire Cathedral International congregation!