Recently, friends, family, and devoted supporters gathered to honor the 80th birthday of the beloved First Lady, Mrs. Olivia Tucker. As the cherished wife, mother, and partner of esteemed Pastor Rev. Dr. Windle Tucker, Mrs. Tucker has dedicated nearly 60 years to offering unwavering love and encouragement, inspiring everyone around her. The celebration began with Dr. Tucker delivering heartfelt opening remarks.
He reflected on the meaning of sanctification, explaining that it is not only present at birth but also involves embracing what God has done for us. Dr. Tucker emphasized that there is no rival to God and that holiness draws us closer to His presence. He acknowledged that, as church members, we sometimes have hardened hearts; yet God is always healing, and we already possess everything we need within us. Dr. Tucker encouraged the congregation to establish a routine of consistency, which involves daily devotion to God and, most importantly, setting aside time for Bible study and prayer. In his closing remarks, he underscored the importance of strengthening families within the church, reminding everyone that strong families are the foundation of strong churches.
Following Dr. Tucker’s remarks, the congregation shared a warm moment of fellowship, greeting one another with kindness. Members offered heartfelt tributes to Mrs. Tucker, describing her as a nurturing figure and a mother to many, regardless of the challenges she has faced throughout her life.
After the remarks, Pastor Marilyn Jenkins called the congregation to worship and led with a prayer. Ethan Carter then guided the congregation in responsive readings from Psalms 96:1–10. The congregation joined in reciting the Gloria Patri, affirming, “Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end.” The members then reflected on the tenets of the Apostles’ Creed, reaffirming their belief in God, the Father Almighty, maker of Heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son. Following the readings, the church choir delivered a stirring performance, with the favorite, “Oh Give Thanks”. Tami Olanpekun then opened the sanctuary for reverent prayer requests, followed by the holy confession of faith. The music ministry team concluded with a powerful performance that set the atmosphere for the message.
Next, Dr. Tucker extended a warm welcome to the guest speaker, the respected minister Tara Reed. She chose the theme of the Biblical Proverbs 31:25 A virtuous woman; she is clothed in strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. As a proverbial woman, she learns from the king, and as women, we deal with complications and even feel like we don’t measure up; despite that feeling, she speaks with confidence, wisdom, and authority.
Sometimes, the biblical woman doesn’t smile or show fear during struggles; she keeps her emotions private. However, she was always clothed with dignity and strength. Additionally, she is a woman blessed with gifts from God that she uses for others; she also possesses a genuine love of God.
Minister Reed emphasizes, “Women, are you clothed with the armor of Christ? Furthermore, as women, it is essential that we clothe ourselves with God’s armor on a daily basis. When we do so correctly, we regain our new self and gain power and strength from Him. The Proverbs woman may at times hit rock bottom; however, she puts her faith and trust in God at all times and understands that He will always be her anchor and resting place. She believes that He shall never leave nor forsake you. Reed stated that the proverbial woman is kind, humble, and patient. She is a diligent woman, selfless and caring, who gives to the poor. She is real, nor does she deflect. Additionally, the Proverbs woman is a woman of courage, and most importantly, she is an unwavering woman devoted to God. The program closed with a prayer.
Church History:
The Western Metropolitan AME Zion Church was birthed out of the vision of Rev. Windle Tucker and Mrs. Olivia Tucker, after 50 years of service as a pastor in the African American Phoenix District of the Southwest Rocky Mountain Conference. He was inspired by God to build the Fisher Chapel AME Zion Metropolitan Church in Phoenix, Arizona.
On Sunday, July 23, 2017, the Powell Metropolitan AME Zion Church had its first service in Avondale, Arizona, at 1:30 PM at the River City Church at 725 North Central Ave. Powell Metropolitan AME ZION Church was named after Bishop Staccato Powell, who reinstated Rev. Dr. Windle Tucker. Friends and family who were in attendance in honor of the day included Rev. Dr. Windle Tucker, Mrs. Oliva Tucker, the oldest daughter Stephanie Tucker Mays, granddaughter Emia Mays, and Minister Candace Carpenter. Brother Rick Moody presented the sermon in honor of the day, entitled The Life of Jesus. The church’s mission is community service and spiritual growth. This establishment not only honored its namesake but also aimed to foster a sense of belonging and purpose among its attendees.
On Sunday afternoon, August 6, 2017, at the request of Bishop Powell, the church was renamed the Western Metropolitan AME Zion Church. Bishop Staccco Powell, along with other local ministers from our sister churches, Fisher Chapel AME Zion Church in Phoenix, and members of Lawrence Memorial AME Zion, joined in the celebration on that day. The Western Metropolitan AME Zion had its last service at the Avondale location; after that, the church moved to Buckeye, Arizona. On Sunday, September 17, 2017, the Western Metropolitan East Monroe held its first service in Buckeye, Arizona. After two years, the church returned to Avondale, Arizona. Due to the unfortunate situation of COVID-19, the church resumed services online. Thanks to the gracious generosity of Pastor Titus Lee and the Center of Hope, the members are worshiping at the current location at 15th Avenue and Cocopah in Phoenix, AZ. God has richly blessed the Western Metropolitan AME ZION church, and with the leadership of Bishop Melanie Rogers Miller and missionary supervisors Rev. Jimmie Miller and Mrs. Terry Holland, we are anticipating even greater things to uplift the Kingdom of God.
The community is coming together in new and innovative ways, fostering a spirit of unity and resilience. As we move forward, we invite everyone to join us in our mission to serve and support one another through faith and fellowship. Together, we will create opportunities for growth and outreach, ensuring that our actions reflect the love and compassion we seek to spread. Let us embrace this journey with open hearts and a commitment to making a positive impact in our community.
Rev. Dr. Windle Tucker, Pastor, Rev.Virgle Ward, Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Melanie Miller Presiding Prelate
1630 South 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007
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