For Immediate Release

Media Contact:

J. Walden
908-370-5196
[email protected]

 

Perth Amboy’s Cathedral International Celebrates 37 Years of its First Family, Bishop Donald and Pastor Phyllis Hilliard

Bishop T.D. Jakes and Gospel Singer Donnie McClurkin to Headline Hilliard’s 25^thEpiscopal Anniversary Celebration

 

PERTH AMBOY – November 17, 2020 –This weekend marks 37 years that Bishop Donald and Pastor Phyllis Hilliard have served Cathedral International – The Historic Second Baptist Church in Perth Amboy. Even more to celebrate, it is also the 25^th episcopal anniversary of Bishop Donald Hilliard being consecrated in the Lord’s Church as a bishop. This weekend, November 20-22, the Cathedral International family will celebrate with virtual events for all including an opening celebration featuring renowned guest speaker Bishop T.D. Jakes and a performance by Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Pastor Donnie McClurkin. Bishop Jakes preached at Hilliard’s Episcopal Consecration 25 years ago.

 

Since 1983, under the dynamic leadership of Hilliard, Cathedral International has experienced unprecedented growth, expanding to three locations: Perth Amboy, Asbury Park and Plainfield. Other accomplishments of Cathedral International under Bishop Hilliard’s leadership include the establishment of a fully licensed, state-certified grades K4 through 6 learning center; the Cathedral Community Development Corporation, designed to economically empower the church and its community; and, the acquisition and renovation of additional properties, including the Cathedral Family Life Center, Cathedral Cafe, Timothy House and the Donald Hilliard, Jr. Community Affairs Complex. Perth Amboy Police Department houses a police substation in one of the properties owned by the church. It is reported that crime has lessened in the area and there is a better relationship between the community and law enforcement.

 

“I thank God for guiding me and giving me the vision, tools and community to lead Cathedral for these last 37 years,” Bishop Hilliard stated. “I would have never imagined we would have grown to the church we are today but I am so thankful for a supportive congregation, spiritual growth, educational excellence and community development.”

 

To kick off the momentous celebration weekend, on Friday, November 20, Hilliard is hosting a Sons and Daughters roundtable discussion and an evening of worship featuring Bishop T.D. Jakes and Pastor Donnie McClurkin. As Hilliard has a laser focus on the next generation of ministry and  mentorship, a feature event of the weekend, 40 Leading Faithfully Under 40, will bring together young leaders, pastors, entrepreneurs and influencers under the age of 40 for dialogue about life, leadership and legacy. To conclude the celebratory virtual events, Cathedral will host Sunday worship online.

 

“It’s been in my heart for a while to host a 40 under 40 discussion for young leaders,” Hilliard said. “I want to pour into these young lives and discuss ways to take your life and ministry to the next level. I pray that these young leaders will leave equipped to do the unimaginable and unthinkable with their innovation and influence.”

 

For more information and to register for these free events, please visit donaldhilliardjr.org or catherdralinternational.org, or call (732) 826-5293.