Personal items of the late Bishop G.E. Patterson will be on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) when the museum opens this Saturday, September 24, at the National Mall in Washington D.C.
More than 20 items were donated to the museum by the Bishop’s widow, Louise Patterson, and will be part of the Cultural Experience Exhibit located on the fourth floor. Two items are currently on display, Bishop Patterson’s collar and crucifix. A video excerpt from one of Bishop Patterson’s sermons can be seen as a part of the exhibit.
A leader in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination, Bishop Patterson was the founder of Bountiful Blessings Ministries and served as Presiding Bishop and Chief Apostle of COGIC from 2000 until his death in 2007.
Current Presiding Bishop Charles E. Blake shares his thoughts on this important tribute. “The Church of God in Christ is honored that our former Presiding Bishop G.E. Patterson, will have items displayed at the new Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture,” said Blake. “Bishop Patterson was an incredible leader and friend who loved the Church of God in Christ, what a great way to honor his memory.”
Mrs. Willie Mae Rivers, COGIC International General Supervisor for the Women’s Department remembers Bishop Patterson fondly. “The legacy and ministry of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson will forever live in the hearts of COGIC,” said Rivers. “I was blessed to serve with him during his entire term as Presiding Bishop and it was a joyous time to serve with such an awesome leader. This honor means so much to those of us who knew him and loved him.”
“I am speechless that my husband’s life accomplishments are recognized in this way,” said Louise Patterson. “It is truly an honor to have his work for the Lord enshrined in a Smithsonian museum for generations to see.”
The NMAAHC will open this Saturday and include a dedication ceremony with President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama. Visit https://nmaahc.si.edu for more information on the grand opening. This is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history and culture and houses more than 40,000 artifacts.
About Bountiful Blessings Inc.
Bountiful Blessings Inc., founded by Bishop G.E. Patterson in 1967, has been a beacon of hope and light for many in our global community for more than 35 years. The organization strives to provide individuals and families from all walks of life with resources and Godly principals to live healthy and abundant lives. Since Patterson’s passing, his wife, evangelist Louise Patterson, has continued his work with the same emphasis. For more information about Bountiful Blessings, please call 1-800-544-3571 or visit www.bbless.org.