About Us

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Welcome to the Men’s Ministry, led by Deacon Lester Rice, where our mission is “Strengthening Men, Strengthening Families, Strengthening Faith.”

At NBCO, our Men’s ministry stands firmly committed to equipping, empowering, and encouraging men to live boldly for Christ. We recognize the vital role that men play as spiritual leaders, husbands, fathers, brothers, and mentors, and we are resolute in our call to stand strong in faith, build resilient families, and serve our community with unwavering integrity.

Through prayer, fellowship, discipleship, and outreach, our ministry arms men with essential tools and unwavering support to grow spiritually, lead with impact, and serve diligently. We firmly believe that when men are fortified in the Word of God, they spark a transformation that ripples through entire families and communities.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Respectfully,

Deacon Lester Rice

The women leading the NBOC Women’s Ministry are at the heart of fostering a vibrant and nurturing environment for women within our COGIC church community. They not only facilitate fellowship and community-building activities but also serve as mentors, guiding women to deepen their faith in Christ and forge meaningful relationships with one another.

These leaders embody the spirit of outreach, reaching out to those in need and demonstrating Christ's unwavering love and compassion for all women. They create a safe space where every woman feels valued and empowered to share her journey, struggles, and triumphs.

As steadfast encouragers and prayer intercessors, they embrace the vital mission of uplifting one another. Through their support and guidance, women are inspired to discover and fulfill their God-given purpose, contributing actively to the church’s mission and the community at large. Together, they cultivate an atmosphere of empowerment, helping each other to grow spiritually and to shine brightly as reflections of God’s love

NBOC Youth Ministry leaders play a crucial role in fostering the spiritual growth and development of young people within the church. This husband and wife offer spiritual guidance and mentorship, enabling our youth to cultivate their faith and deepen their relationship with God. These leaders are divinely inspired to design programs and educational initiatives that promote fellowship, worship, and community service, all aimed at enhancing our young members' understanding of scripture and church teachings.

In addition, NBOC Youth Ministry leaders provide compassionate support to assist youth facing personal challenges, including emotional, social, and spiritual issues. They maintain open communication with the pastor and members of the congregation regarding activities and upcoming events. These responsibilities ensure that the youth ministry effectively contributes to the spiritual and personal development of the church's young members.

The Deacons of NBOC play a pivotal role in supporting Pastor Sherman Watkins by fulfilling essential spiritual and administrative functions within the church. They are committed to fostering the spiritual health of the congregation. Ordained by God, these individuals embody the principles of service and stewardship, contributing significantly to both spiritual and church unity.

Their foundation is firmly rooted in Acts 6:1-7, which details the appointment of these dedicated servants to meet the needs of the community, allowing pastoral leadership to focus on prayer and the preaching of God’s word. The qualifications for these Deacons are clearly outlined in 1 Timothy 3:8-13, emphasizing characteristics such as integrity, faithfulness, and strong leadership.

Led by Deacon Tony Robinson, NBOC Deacons demonstrate a profound commitment to God and the church, exhibiting wisdom and discernment in their decision-making. Their steadfast example uplifts the congregation and inspires others to deepen their relationship with Christ. More than mere leaders, these Deacons are true servants who reflect the love of Christ through their actions, cultivating a vibrant community of believers devoted to worship, service, and the dissemination of the Gospel of Christ. 

As an elder at our COGIC Church, I am deeply committed to the spiritual growth of our men, both young and seasoned. Under the guidance of our beloved Elder Burth, NBOC Leaders have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of faith grounded in biblical principles and a rich relationship with God.

Our Elder’s Ministry is more than just a group—it is a family where we come together to support one another through life's challenges. I am grateful for the opportunities we create for fellowship, allowing us to share our experiences, offer comfort, and encourage each other's journeys in faith, relationships, and personal development.

Through community service and outreach, we strive to reflect Christ's love in all we do. I take pride in being part of a ministry that not only nurtures our spiritual growth but also actively serves our community, bringing hope and light to those in need.

In our times of prayer and intercession, we lift one another up as we seek God's guidance. It is in these moments that I feel our bonds deepen and our lives enriched. I am honored to serve in this capacity, witnessing the profound impact that our ministry has not just on our members, but also on the greater NBOC Church and our surrounding community. Together, we are creating a nurturing environment where our Elders can grow spiritually and make meaningful contributions. I am thankful for this journey we share and look forward to what God has in store for us.

"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." 1 Peter 5:2-3

Blessings,

Elder Burth

Greetings in the matchless name of Jesus Christ! On behalf of the Hospitality Ministry, led by Sister Vernest Rice, we extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to you! I lead guided by Matthew 25:35, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” It is our honor and privilege to serve, reflecting the love of Christ through genuine hospitality.

At NBOC, our Hospitality Mission is inspired by the beautiful biblical principles of love, service, and community. We strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all members and visitors, reflecting the love of Christ through simple acts of kindness and generosity.

Drawing inspiration from Hebrews 13:2, we believe in the importance of showing hospitality to everyone, as it can feel like entertaining angels among us. Similarly, Romans 12:13 encourages us to devote ourselves to serving others and sharing with those in need.

Our ministry is dedicated to making everyone feel valued and accepted within our church community, fostering a spirit of fellowship and connection. With our kindness and warm hearts, along with our commitment to service, we create an inviting environment that encourages spiritual growth and deepens our bonds within NBOC. We look forward to welcoming you into our community!

With Love,

Vernest Rice

“Serving with Grace, Welcoming with Love”

On behalf of the Ushers Ministry at NBOC, we extend a warm and joyful welcome to you. It is our mission and privilege to serve in the house of the Lord, ensuring that every person who enters experiences an atmosphere of love, peace, and reverence for God.

As ushers, we are the doorkeepers of the church, standing ready to greet, guide, and assist with open hearts and smiling faces. Psalm 84:10 reminds us: "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Led by Sister Sabrina Cooper and Targy Brown, dedicated leaders with a heart of service. She states, “I believe that hospitality is a ministry, and through kindness, patience, and a servant’s heart, our Ministry reflects the love of Christ in all we do. Whether you are visiting for the first time or have been a part of our church family for years, know that you will always feel welcome at NBOC.

It is our joy to serve, and we pray that your experience at NBOC is one that brings you closer to Christ and fills your spirit with His divine presence.

Blessings and grace,
Sister Cooper and Brown 

 A Message From NBOC's Church Mother,

"Beloved family, as we gather together in the presence of our Lord, I want to remind you of the incredible strength that resides within each of us. Just as a mother nurtures her child, we must nurture one another in love and faith. In times of joy and in times of struggle, let us remember that we are united as one body in Christ. Each of us has been beautifully created for a purpose and is essential to the kingdom of God. So, let us lift each other up, share our burdens, and celebrate our victories together. Know that you are never alone; God walks beside you, and His love surrounds you. Let us be a source of encouragement for each other, shining His light in our community and beyond. Together, we can inspire hope, spread kindness, and reflect the love of Christ in all that we do. Embrace your gift, walk with faith, and remember that we are stronger together, as we grow and thrive in His grace. Amen."

Abundant blessings to everyone,
Mother Holt 

I am honored to serve alongside Pastor Sherman Watkins as a dedicated support in our ministry. In my role as an organizational leader, God has granted me the privilege of being a liaison between our pastor and the vibrant congregation we are blessed to shepherd together. I am here to address any questions or concerns and to facilitate open and effective communication.

With a heart committed to servant leadership, my focus is on uplifting and encouraging our pastor, ensuring that he remains steadfast in his spiritual leadership and dedicated to preaching the gospel of Christ. My ordained role is to empower him in leading our congregation effectively, allowing us to fulfill our church’s mission without distractions, so that God receives all the glory in our endeavors. Together, we strive to create an environment that fosters growth, faith, and a deeper connection to our community and God’s purpose.

Respectfully,
Rick McDowell

At NBOC, I am wholeheartedly committed to supporting our esteemed First Lady, Suleek Watkins, in her mission to inspire and uplift our church community. My dedication stems from a deep passion for nurturing faith in others and ensuring that our ministry's vision is realized both spiritually and organizationally.

I am honored to provide personal and professional assistance to First Lady Watkins, helping her access the resources necessary to effectively carry out her impactful ministry work. As a liaison between the First Lady and our church community, I am dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships with congregation members, particularly women and families, to understand their needs and facilitate open communication with our church leaders.
I pledge to be a pillar of support in creating a welcoming and spiritually enriching environment for our beloved congregation. I am here to champion church initiatives and programs while representing our First Lady with unwavering faith and commitment to the teachings of Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Together with First Lady Watkins, we will strive to advance the ministry and embody the love of Christ in all our endeavors.

Blessings,
Missionary Joyce Robinson