05/29/2026
EPISCOPAL STATEMENT OF CONDOLENCE
From His Grace, Bishop Garcea L. Hyman
Senior Pastor, Judea Apostolic Church
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” — Psalm 116:15
It is with profound sorrow, yet unwavering confidence in the resurrection hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, that I extend heartfelt condolences on behalf of Lady Sherice Hyman, the clergy, leadership, and members of Judea Apostolic Church to the Pender family and the entire Beth-El Churches of Christ, Inc., upon the Apostolic Transition of His Eminence, The Most Reverend Richard Jerome Pender, Sr., Presiding Bishop.
The passing of a Prince of the Church is never merely the departure of an individual; it marks the conclusion of a sacred chapter in the life of Christ’s Church. Bishop Pender stood as a faithful steward of the Apostolic Faith, a guardian of ecclesiastical order, and a shepherd whose influence extended far beyond the boundaries of his own communion. Through decades of devoted service, he carried the weight of episcopal responsibility with dignity, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
His Eminence embodied the noble virtues of Christian leadership. He governed with conviction, preached with clarity, served with humility, and loved the Church with steadfast commitment. His episcopacy will long be remembered as a ministry characterized by spiritual fortitude, apostolic vision, and an enduring passion for the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom.
As we mourn his passing, we also give thanks to Almighty God for the remarkable witness of his life and ministry. We rejoice in the assurance that those who faithfully labor in the vineyard of the Lord do not labor in vain. The earthly voice of Bishop Pender has been silenced, yet the testimony of his faithfulness continues to speak.
To the Pender family, we offer our prayers and sincere sympathy. To the College of Bishops, clergy, and faithful members of the Beth-El Churches of Christ, Inc., we stand with you in this season of sacred remembrance. May the God of all comfort sustain you with His grace and strengthen you with His peace.
Today, the Church Militant bows in reverence while the Church Triumphant rejoices in welcome.
May perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest from his labors, and may his works continue to follow him.
Requiescat in Pace.
Rest Eternal Grant Unto Him, O Lord, and Let Light Perpetual Shine Upon Him.
With prayerful sympathy and fraternal esteem,
✠ The Rt. Rev. Garcea L. Hyman
Senior Pastor, Judea Apostolic Church
Florence, South Carolina
“Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23 (KJV)
