November 13th, 2024

Passionate, dedicated, phenomenal and faithful are just a few words that describe Rev. Dr. Edwin A. Davis, pastor of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church (GMBC), the oldest African American Baptist church in Acres Homes. Pastor Davis has been pastor of GMBC for 35 years and has grown the church significantly over the last three decades. It was in 1987, when he preached what is known to some as his most famous sermon, “The Boomerang,” which played a significant role in him becoming the 8th pastor of the church. A native Houstonian, Pastor Davis grew up in Third Ward and lived on Truxillo Street where his grandmother, Ophelia P. Davis raised and taught him many life lessons.

As a child, Pastor Davis attended church with his grandmother every Sunday morning. He learned to play the organ at an early age and played for several churches in the Houston area, and later received the call from God to enter the ministry. “The Holy Spirit reveals this calling to you, and you either obey the calling or do something different. As God told Jeremiah, even when I was in my mother’s womb, I was destined and ordained to be a preacher.”

There are many things that come with being a Pastor, and Pastor Davis does not take for granted the call he answered in 1985. “I have been able to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and have tried to save as many souls as possible. God allowed me to be there on many occasions for God’s people in their time of need, providing them with the comfort they needed. My hope and prayer is that in some way, I’ve been an inspiration to many,” he said.

In addition, being a pastor does not come without its set of challenges. One challenge he mentioned was working with different personalities and trying to reach hundreds of people who are at different levels in their spirituality. Pastor Davis stated that Covid brought with it its own set of challenges. “Covid stabbed and wounded the church, and it has not recovered yet.” He discussed how this is not only a challenge for GMBC, but a challenge for churches  all over the nation. “It impacted the church in a big way and hindered a lot of people from actively attending church. Although we offer online streaming for service, being online is quite different from being in the sanctuary for praise and worship in person.”

Under the leadership of Pastor Davis, GMBC has reached significant heights. In 1993, a new fellowship hall was built, which expanded the square footage of the church. The 15 year mortgage for the construction of the fellowship hall was paid off in four and a half years. Over the years, GMBC grew even more with the construction of a 15,964 square feet, 860 seat sanctuary, which was completed on September 14, 2003. The  30 year mortgage for this construction was paid in full in fourteen and a half years. More recently the entire fellowship hall and bathroom areas have been renovated.

A strong believer in supporting the community, Pastor Davis has overseen many community events at the church over the past several years. These events include festivals, food giveaways, hurricane relief, vaccination and childhood immunization events, and the church has awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships to assist their youth in pursuing higher education. Pastor Davis stressed that none of this would have been possible without the help of his faithful members.

Pastor Davis has always stressed the importance of getting an education to his members, and has even been an example of what education can do. Education opens doors and provides better opportunities, but a lack of education can bring larger and more serious issues to the community.” He even quoted the great late Nelson Mandela who said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Over time, Pastor Davis has received several accolades and achievements. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame of Religion in Dallas, Texas, and has received many other honors and awards. He has also obtained many degrees including a Doctorate of Education from the University of Houston.

Pastor Davis has been married to the beautiful first lady of GMBC, Dr. Charlotte J. Davis. They have four kids; Eric Davis (Mandelé), Erica Davis-Stribling (David), Dr. Chelsea Davis-Bibb (Derek), and Courtney Davis. They also have five beautiful grandkids; Aubrey Davis, Alysse Davis, Aurielle Davis, Carter Bibb, and Caiden Bibb.

GMBC has played a major role in the life of Pastor Davis, and he is forever grateful that he answered God’s call many years ago to come to Acres Homes, Texas to the historical landmark, GMBC. When it comes to his legacy, Pastor Davis stated that he would like to be remembered as a pastor who tried to help as many people as he could and that he tried to be an example of a person who lived the life that he  preached about.”

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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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