This morning we received the blessed news that our very own, Mother Vernia Crews (94) went on to be with the Lord. It is such a great joy knowing that she is rejoicing and renewed in the presence of God, beholding the glory of God, that by faith she believed with all her heart to be true. I felt it appropriate to capture this moment as a teaching point, an inspiration, and a reflection from her blessed life. Mother Crews served my father Bishop Brian K. Williams for over 30 years as a member of “Truth Evangelistic Center”, “Body of Christ Tabernacle”, “All Nations Church”, and upon the merger in November of 2013 between ANC and Hope City House of Prayer, under my watch. As a child I had fond memories of Mother crews, I knew her to be one who was FAITHFUL… I don’t recall too many conversations with her as a child of course, but I do remember her always being there. Let’s talk about that for a moment… in a day and age where church attendance and faithful support of the church and pastor is so rare, I grew up with many godly examples such as Mother Crews. I knew exactly where she sat each week and everyone who knew her could count on that seat to be filled. She was faithful in giving and most of all in prayer. According to my father, it was Mother Crews who received a dream from the Lord about the location of where All Nations Church was to be built. After looking at many opportunities, her trusted counsel caused my father and the board of trustees to supernaturally purchase the 12 acres of land which would one day become the home of Hope City House of Prayer. God chose to give a dream to His friend, the faithful mother Crews. I’m reminded of the scripture in Psalms 25:14 which says “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.” Had it not been for her friendship and her faithfulness with God, who knows if Hope City House of Prayer would exist today? Let alone, the thousands who called ANC their home over the 29 years of its existence. I so thank the Lord for the gift of Mother Crews to our spiritual family.
THE TRANSITION:
In October of 2013, My father Bishop Brian Keith Williams, concluded 29 years of faithful ministry in the city of Columbus, after being raised up by God to establish an apostolic/prophetic work here in the city, the mantle fell upon myself and the congregation of Hope City House of Prayer who joined with ANC to form a new congregation. Among those who chose to join with Hope City was none other than the 94 yr old mother crews. While many doubted me due to my age (28) Mother Crews, the faithful friend of God said “It is well with my soul” and faithfully transferred her membership. On October 29, 2013 during the consummation celebration Mother Crews testified powerfully about the faithfulness of God and his mercy to all generations. She sent the congregation into an uproar as the power of God flowed freely through this yielded vessel. People went to shouting, praising, and thanking God. Mother Crews was undeniably a woman of prayer as her words always carried the weight of glory behind them.
A few weeks later, my father and I went to Mother’s home and had a mini- church service, we sang a few old hymns, testified, and prayed together. She laid hands on me and asked God to give me wisdom to lead the people, and told me how she saw greater things coming and to be encouraged, and to stay humble. I also found out, that when I was about 8 years old and struggling with pretty severe asthma, that is was Mother Crews who prayed for my healing and I was completely healed. To this day now 20 years later, I have never had another breathing problem or been hospitalized or used an inhaler again. Thank God, “The Prayers of the righteous availeth much”.
During the past 10 months, Mother Crews was unable to physically join us for worship due to her health. While she was not physically present, many days the Lord bore witness with my spirit that her prayers were lifting us at Hope City higher, into new realms with God. Even in her absense, Mother regularly tithed and helped Hope City House of Prayer in its effort to purchase the former All Nations Church building.
As I reflect on her life, I’m reminded of this scripture “The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.” – Proverbs 10:7 Mother’s memories are blessed in all of our hearts and our lives will continue to be blessed as we draw living water from the well of memories. There is an entire generation that God will reach through her prayers and her legacy. At one point during this past year the thought to QUIT, crossed my mind due to the extreme pressure I was facing in ministry… but just the thought of Mother Crews gave me the strength to keep going. Our generation can greatly benefit from honoring the saints of old by following their examples of endurance and trusting wholly in Jesus Christ, our Lord. To the family we send our condolences and our prayers are with you. Information regarding the home going service will be announced in the days ahead. Stay tuned and God bless.
– Pastor Brian M. Williams, Hope City House of Prayer
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