Hundreds from across denominational lines packed the Heritage Worship Centre in Hamilton last Sunday to share in the signal honours accorded 15 Ministerial Legends for "their long and fruitful labours in the vineyard of God".

Variously cited as "God's Generals", "Faithful Soldiers", Elder Statesmen" and a "Matriarch in the Ministry" were Bishop N.N. Dickenson, Bishop Vernon Lambe, Bishop Ewen Ratteray, Bishop Neville Smith Canon Thomas Nesbitt, Elders Malcolm Eve, Elder John Duncan, Rev. Conway Simmons, Rev. Betty Furbert-Woolridge, Ven. Archbishop Emeritus Dr. Arnold Hollis, Canon James Francis, Elder Andrew Landy, Rev. Alton Thompson, Rev. Eugene Joell and Rev. Leon Herbert.

The Administrative Bishop of the New Testament Church of God, Bermuda, Rev. Dr. Lloyd E. Duncan, who organized the service, said afterwards, he though it was "absolutely wonderful, highly inspirational", seeing that "what you sow, you reap", with sons honouring their fathers, and protégées who had been inspired to leadership by their elders.

The three-hour service was highlighted by presentations to the "living legends", special music, prayer, singing and spirited "impartation of the Word" by brothers and Pastors Dean and George Smith, sons of the late Elder Chauncey Smith.