The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

The tragic plane crash that killed Dr Myles Munroe, Dr Richard Pinder and seven others is still the object of discussion in the country and indeed in the international religious community. There have been countless tributes from many over this tragedy.

Most of these tributes have praised Dr Munroe for his unparalleled accomplishments as an author, a pastor and a motivational speaker and rightfully so. But let us dare not forget about the works of Pastor Dr Richard Pinder who was Dr Munroe’s second-in-command.

Pastor Rich has been with Dr Munroe since day one and he is also an author, counsellor, motivator, a human resources expert and he has shown an unwavering dedication to Bahamas Faith Ministry International (BFMI). He played an integral part in catapulting BFMI onto the world stage.

Additionally, he has always been neck and neck supporting Dr Munroe’s efforts and was a capable replacement in Dr Munroe’s absence.

In one of his international messages, Pastor Rich said: “If you are going to prosper, never run from a challenge.”

He said a lot of people are not prospering because they are not using their gifts. Pastor Rich used his gifts and he accepted the challenge of building an effective local and international kingdom ministry alongside his dear friend Dr Munroe. I daresay he came out with flying colours. As a testament to his prosperity and influence, it would be hard pressed for any evangelical ministry worldwide to not know who Pastor Rich was.

Pastor Rich, like Dr Munroe, graduated from Oral Roberts University and his contribution over the last 30 odd years cannot be overstated. He was once a cohost of the very popular local TV show “Choices” and he has travelled extensively internationally delivering messages of kingdom living.

He had a quiet demeanour when compared to his senior pastor, but he has accomplished much and deserves much recognition. Bahamians from all walks of life will be less complete if they don’t read about the BFMI story and the emergence of great leaders that Pastor Rich has helped to nurture over the last several decades.

The loss of life on that fateful afternoon of November 9, 2014 will live on in our hearts for years to come. We lost two pilots, Dr Munroe and his wife, Lavard Parks, his wife, his son, an unborn child and an international delegate. But don’t forget that we also lost Pastor Rich, a giant of a man in his own right who was instrumental in moulding BFMI’s journey since its inception of seven members to a now highly respected and trusted ministry that collectively influences millions abroad and at home. My condolences to all and I wish the new leaders much success.

DEHAVILLAND MOSS

Nassau,

November 26, 2014