Pastor Marlowe Parks' Ordination

Pastor Marlowe Parks was ordained at the Abundant Life Church in Edmond, Oklahoma on January 10th, 2026.

The ordination ceremony underscored that, while it was a celebration of Pastor Parks, it was, more importantly, a celebration of God’s transformative power. It celebrated his dedication to his calling and the divine work manifested through him.

The event featured an opening emphasizing that the true praise belonged to God, who enabled Pastor Parks to be in his current position, followed by a musical performance titled "All to Bring Him Glory."

A pivotal moment was the sermon delivered by Elder Steven Brooks, who drew parallels from Psalm 78:9, discussing Ephraim's retreat in battle. He connected this ancient narrative to the modern challenges faced by pastors, urging perseverance in ministry despite hardships. Brooks also highlighted concerning statistics regarding pastors leaving the ministry for reasons other than retirement, reinforcing the message that the laying on of hands is a lifelong commitment, not merely an initiation for a temporary job. He stressed that difficult times will come, and true strength lies in trusting God, even when facing betrayal or adversity.

The congregation learned about Pastor Marlowe Parks' personal journey through a biographical overview. Born in Harlem, New York, to an 18-year-old mother involved in street life, Marlo and his brother were raised by their grand aunt. They endured physical abuse before being placed in foster care, where they were introduced to Jesus. At the tender age of nine, Marlo committed his life to Christ, developing a singular purpose: to serve his heavenly Father. He found solace and guidance in God, particularly through the challenges of moving between foster homes. After exiting the foster care system, he encountered individuals at his workplace who introduced him to the great truths of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which gave him a profound sense of purpose and answers to his difficult start in life. He began preaching shortly after his baptism and pursued extensive theological education, graduating with a Master's in Pastoral Ministry from Andrews University. His ministry has spanned the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa, and he currently serves as a pastor in the Oklahoma Conference. Pastor Parks has been married to Melshara for nearly 30 years, and they have two children, Taji and Judea, along with two granddaughters.

The ordination continued with a formal charge, which Pastor Parks, standing alongside his wife Melshara, publicly accepted. This was followed by a solemn prayer of consecration and the laying on of hands by ordained ministers and church leaders. During this sacred moment, prayers were offered for divine protection, an increase of the Holy Spirit, and sustained strength for their ministry.

Concluding the ceremony, Pastor Daniel Ortega offered heartfelt words of encouragement and a final charge to Pastor Parks. He acknowledged the inevitable highs and lows in ministry, drawing parallels to the prophet Elijah's experiences. Ortega emphasized the crucial need for unwavering dependence on God, urging Pastor Parks to remain humble, committed, and deeply grounded in scripture and prayer. He charged him to lead with compassion and integrity, live out a ministry of presence, lift up Jesus, laugh with those who laugh and lament with those who lament, always look to Jesus, and love people as Jesus loved them. Citing Zephaniah 3:17, Ortega reminded Pastor Parks of God's constant presence, saving power, joyful relationship, compassion, and promises.

The ceremony also paid special tribute to Melshara Parks, acknowledging her vital role as she continues her journey of ministry alongside her husband. It was affirmed that her service, love, and spiritual strength profoundly impact lives in seen and unseen ways, making her faithfulness a continuous blessing to the ministry. The church committed to praying for, encouraging, and supporting the work God has entrusted to both of them.

Click Play to see the Ordination Service

The video documents the ordination of Pastor Marlowe Parks (17:52-1:16:17) at the Abundant Life Seventh-day Adventist Church. The ceremony celebrates Pastor Parks' commitment to his calling and God's work through him.

Key elements of the event include:

Opening remarks (18:22) emphasizing that the celebration is primarily for God's work through Pastor Parks.

A musical performance (19:45) titled "All to Bring Him Glory."

A sermon by Elder Steven Brooks (24:51), who speaks on Psalm 78:9 about Ephraim turning back in battle, relating it to the challenges pastors face and encouraging perseverance in ministry despite difficulties. He also shares statistics on pastors leaving the ministry.

A biographical overview (27:52) of Pastor Marlowe Parks' life, detailing his challenging childhood, his conversion at age nine, his discovery of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and his extensive educational and evangelistic ministry in various countries. His family, including his wife Melshara and children Taji and Judea, are also mentioned (31:13).

The formal charge and acceptance of the ministry (59:40), where Pastor Parks publicly commits to his responsibilities.

A significant prayer of consecration and the laying on of hands (1:03:30) by ordained ministers and church leaders for Pastor and Mrs. Parks.

Words of encouragement and a final charge (1:09:17) to Pastor Parks, reminding him of the highs and lows of ministry, the importance of dependence on God, humility, and dedication to scripture and prayer.

Recognition of Melshara Parks (1:13:50) for her faithful service and support alongside her husband in ministry.