Reaching Through Preaching: Brother Dr. Gerald Folsom Starts New Phase in Ministry Trek

Many times we will leave a spirited church service and utter the words, "Man, that brother can preach!" When the Brothers from Gamma Pi chapter say those words, we mean it quite literally, especially when it comes to our esteemed Chaplain Brother Dr. Gerald Folsom. On September 30, Brother Dr. Folsom fed a "heaping helping" of spiritual food to a huge contingent of Gamma Pi Brothers, family, other friends and members of the Community of Hope AME Church (pastored by Rev. Tony Lee) in Temple Hills, Md. who came out to offer support during the delivery of his much-anticipated Trial Sermon titled, "He Looked Beyond My Faults." In keeping with today's culture, Brother Dr. Folsom gave his sermon an alternate "remix" title of "It's Still the Dog in Me." (John 5:1-9).

Judging by the rousing reaction of Brothers, who are still talking about the experience, the sermon was an event in itself for Gamma Pi as much as it was for Brother Dr. Folsom's pursuit of the ministry in the AME Church. Gamma Pi members can already envision the AME church getting a sharp, spirited, committed young minister in the coming years after Bro. Dr. Folsom completes the long and winding road of preparation. The Trial Sermon is the latest milestone in that quest for Brother Dr. Folsom. Another milestones occurred today, October 21, as Brother Dr. Folsom preached at chapel at the Howard University School of Divinity.

As Gamma Pi Chaplain, Bro. Dr. Folsom has elevated the visibility of the job. He provides a Daily Inspirations to all chapter members via email and he recently began writing a religious column called "Chaplain's Corner," for the Gamma Pi Gazette newsletter. Brother Dr. Folsom also leads a session called "Ques for Christ" prior to every monthly chapter meeting and he is also working to re-institute periodic chapter group worship services at area churches. Brothers of Gamma Pi always anticipate Bro. Dr. Folsom's powerful and moving prayers before and after chapter meetings and events. In many respects, Bro. Dr. Folsom's prayers remind Brothers of the popular slogan of the old investment firm, E.F. Hutton -- "when he talks, people listen..."

If you missed Brother Dr. Folsom's sermon in person, don't fret. And if you heard it and would love to be stirred by it again, still don't fret. You can click on this link and download the mp3 file to hear the sermon on your computer or iPOD. After you've heard Brother Dr. Folsom's powerful and convincing message, you may want to pass the plate! Congratulations to Brother Dr. Folsom - a "testament" to Gamma Pi chapter's versatility!