A ‘Port in Time of Storm’

What is the role of a pastor today? “Enabler, expediter, mobilizer, catalyst, port in time of storm, welcome arch, social activist, priest, economic developer, heart fixer,” says Pastor Cecil Murray of the First A.M.E. Church. Murray lives what he preaches. His days and nights are filled with social service and spiritual blessings. He presides over the cycle of life--baptisms, weddings and funerals--with special attention paid to reaching out to those on the edge of trouble. Murray expects the same personal commitment from his congregation. The church requests that each member join task forces on issues including tutoring, the homeless and foster care. Murray, a native of Lakeland, Fla., came to FAME in 1977. As he looks to the future, he believes in thinking big: “I think if you sincerely place your hand in God’s hand you are led . . . and one door opens another, which opens another. . . .”