Alcorn family attends Rev. C. Edward Rhodes II’s inaugural service as rector of Oakland Memorial Chapel
Alcorn family attends Rev. C. Edward Rhodes II’s inaugural service as rector of Oakland Memorial Chapel
On Sunday, September 15, 2013, Alcorn State University students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members gathered in the historic Oakland Memorial Chapel for the inaugural service of Reverend C. Edward Rhodes II, Alcorn’s new rector of the Chapel.
The service opened with a prelude by University Organist Tony Gordon and a period of praise and worship by Jonathan Taylor, a junior music performance major. Deputy Provost for Student Services Emanuel Barnes, who presided over the service, called the congregation to worship. The service continued with the congregation singing a morning hymn. Miss Alcorn State University 2013-14 Carmen Gibson read the Scripture (Isaiah 43:16-21) and Luther Bolin, a sophomore, political science/pre-law major, said the prayer. Songs of inspiration were performed by the Alcorn State University Gospel Choir under the direction of Cassandra Brown. Offerings and blessings were offered by Dr. Carl Cunningham, vice president for Student Success and Enrollment Management.
Donna Hayden, CIO and Staff Senate chairperson, introduced the rector. “Alcorn State University is blessed to have Rev. Rhodes, one of the new and emerging transformational spiritual leaders, as the rector of the Oakland Memorial Chapel.”
An amazing solo performance by Alcorn alumnus Leon Moore ’10 served as a moving opening for the rector’s ministry of the word.
“Let go of the past, have greater expectations and be certain not to miss the future as there are bigger and better things waiting for you,” taught Rev. Rhodes during his spiritual sermon. “Pay attention to the divine intention and do not miss your blessing. Do not be afraid of change nor the future.”
Rev. Rhodes concluded the service by recognizing the participants – Christian Athletes organization, ASU Gospel Choir, student ambassadors, Alcorn employees, alumni, community members and visiting ministers, and thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve as rector.
Rev. Rhodes family – his father Carroll Rhodes, step mother Linda Rhodes and wife Allison Rhodes-were on hand to support the new rector. “We are so proud of him, he is at the right place at the right time to educate and guide young minds at Alcorn.”
“We invite the Alcorn family and community for our services that will be held every Sunday while the University is open,” said Rev. Rhodes. “Please join us at 10:30 a.m. in the Oakland Memorial Chapel.”
Rev. Rhodes will serve as director of Student Religious Life at Alcorn and supervise all of the university’s faith groups. He will also join the faculty in the Department of Social Sciences where he will teach courses in philosophy, world civilizations and history.
For more information, contact Rev. Rhodes at [email protected] , via phone at 601.278.5620 or Twitter @RevRhodes.
