This post is a little slow out of the blocks but something I am really pleased about. Last year (2007) the University of Leeds conferred an honorary Doctorate of Law upon one of Bethel’s pioneer ministers. Her name is Mabel Parris, pastor of Bethel Apostolic Church in Leeds (a branch of Bethel United Church of Jesus Christ Apostolic).
Here are the words of recognition given by Lord (Melvin) Bragg as he presented her doctorate: -
Today’s events recognise those who have made a major contribution to the life of Leeds. In her 50 years in the city, Mabel Parris has genuinely touched the lives of people here – and much further afield.
Arriving in Leeds in 1958, Mabel found there was no church which offered the style of worship she had experienced in the Caribbean. She established a fellowship in her home, leading to the foundation of Bethel Apostolic Church in Hyde Park. She was ordained its first woman pastor in 1972.
Fifty years on from its foundation, Bethel Apostolic Church remains a powerful beacon for good in the inner-city, nurturing young people and offering support to the elderly through the Bethel Day Care Centre. At the age of 81, Pastor Parris remains at the heart of this community.
Her charitable work has had a major impact on a far broader stage. In 1993, starting with just £100, Pastor Parris established the Kenyan Orphan Sponsorship Trust to provide accommodation and education for children orphaned by AIDS.
The trust now runs two orphanages in Kenya, caring for the needs of more than 100 youngsters. Pastor Parris has visited them 22 times and in doing so has watched the young orphans learn, develop and grow.
She shows little sign of slowing down. Pastor Parris spends evenings baking to raise money for the orphanages while her tireless efforts have galvanised local churches into an on-going fundraising campaign to maintain the trust’s life-changing work.
Her commitment to the church, the community and the charity is undiminished – and she is sustained by the love of her 10 children, 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Chancellor, I am honoured to present to you for the degree of Doctor of Laws, honoris causa: Mabel Parris.
To God be all glory for Pastor Parris.
