Yesterday, the church lost a great
pastor, friend, mentor, prayer warrior, and most importantly soul-winner. Dr.
Ralph Godfrey Sr. took one-step from this life into the presence of his savior,
friend, and King Jesus Christ whom he had loved and served for decades as Pastor
of New Life Temple and President of New Life Temple Bible College.
I was recently with Dr. Godfrey as
we honored together a dear friend of ours Dr. Roger Webb, whom Pastor Godfrey
had served as Presbyter for Pastor Webb and Grace Church of the Valley where I
now have the privilege to serve on staff.
I remember him walking up and putting his arms around my back and
saying, “When I grow up I want to be just like you” …. Keep in mind that Dr. Godfrey
was at least 20 years older than me, but those words were such an encouragement
at a time I needed encouragement. In his
time at NLT and NLTBC he ministered to thousands both here in the Greater
Cincinnati area, and around the world.
His impact will be felt for generations to come as the young preachers,
pastors, and teachers take up the banner and move God’s kingdom forward, as he
had always encouraged them to do.
The words encourager and friend to pastors will forever be his legacy here on
earth. However, as a young preacher (ok
not so young) I can only hope that my legacy as an encourager and friend to
pastors will be half of what Dr. Godfrey’s was in his 70 plus years on this
earth.
Doc, can’t wait to see you soon.
Our
family’s prayers go out to Mrs. Godfrey, Sr, Pastor Ralph Godfrey, Jr and all
the family. As well as the church family that loved and shared their lives with
him.
