The Tribune

A RIFT during the Full Gospel election of a new leader prompted Mount Tabor Church pastor Bishop Neil C Ellis’ decision to resign from the international religious body, The Tribune understands.

While Bishop Ellis had withdrawn from the elections, which were between himself and Joseph Walker III of Nashville, Tennessee, The Tribune understands that he was generally not accepted in the Bishop’s council by comparison to his counterpart because he was not American.

That view has angered supporters of Bishop Ellis who believe that his influence in the Full Gospel Fellowship has been much more influential than Walker’s. They noted that Ellis had for years brought large numbers of delegates to conferences and worked tirelessly to advance the agenda of the organisation.

Several attempts to get a comment from Bishop Ellis were not successful. A church secretary told The Tribune that the Bishop would not be issuing any statements or allowing interviews.

In light of Ellis’ resignation, which also means his church is now disconnected from the Fellowship, several pastors, who requested anonymity at this time are concerned of what the development means for the Bahamas.

It came to light on Tuesday that Bishop Ellis was resigning the post of 2nd Presiding Bishop immediately after he had served 20 years in the Full Gospel Fellowship.

In a letter sent to the International Presiding Bishop Paul S. Morton, Bishop Ellis said: “I am satisfied, after much prayer and reflection that the Holy Spirit is now leading me to bring this season of my life in the Fellowship to a close.”

He said he was thankful to God for guiding his heart, hands and mind during his tenure with the organisation. 

Bishop Ellis recognised the members of the Bishop’s Council, for the respect and cooperation extended to him particularly during the last 11 years while serving as 3rd and 2nd Presiding Bishop.