Marlowe Parks Ordained for Life of Service
EDMOND, OKLA. – Marlowe Parks was ordained at the Abundant Life Seventh-day Adventist Church on Jan. 10, 2026. The ordination ceremony underscored that, while it was a celebration of Parks, it was, more importantly, a celebration of God’s transformative power. It celebrated his dedication to God’s calling and the divine work manifested through Him.
The event featured an introduction emphasizing that the true praise belonged to God, who enabled Parks to be in his current position, followed by a musical performance titled “All to Bring Him Glory.”
A pivotal moment in the sermon, delivered by Stephen Brooks, Southwestern Union executive secretary, drew parallels from Psalm 78:9, discussing Ephraim’s retreat in battle. He connected this ancient narrative to the modern challenges faced by pastors, urging perseverance in ministry despite hardships. Brooks also highlighted statistics regarding pastors leaving the ministry for reasons other than retirement, reinforcing the message that the laying on of hands is a lifelong commitment, not merely an initiation for a temporary job. He stressed that difficult times will come and that true strength lies in trusting God, even when facing betrayal or adversity.
The congregation learned about Marlowe Parks’ personal journey through a biographical overview. Born in Harlem, N.Y., to an 18-year-old mother involved in street life, Parks and his brother were raised by their grand-aunt. They endured physical abuse before being placed in foster care, where they were introduced to Jesus. At the tender age of nine, Parks committed his life to Christ, developing a singular purpose: to serve his heavenly Father. He found solace and guidance in God, particularly through the challenges of moving between foster homes. After exiting the foster care system, he encountered individuals at his workplace who introduced him to the great truths of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which gave him a profound sense of purpose and answers to his difficult start in life. He began preaching shortly after his baptism and pursued extensive theological education, graduating with a Master’s in pastoral ministry from Andrews University. His ministry has spanned the United States, the Caribbean, Europe and Africa, and he currently serves as a pastor in the Oklahoma Conference. Parks has been married to Melshara for nearly 30 years, and they have two children, Taji and Judea, along with two granddaughters.
The ordination continued with a formal charge, which Parks, standing alongside his wife Melshara, publicly accepted. This was followed by a solemn prayer of consecration and the laying on of hands by ordained ministers and church leaders. During this sacred moment, prayers were offered for divine protection, an increase of the Holy Spirit and sustained strength for the Parks’ ministry.
Concluding the ceremony, Daniel Ortega, Oklahoma Conference president, offered heartfelt words of encouragement and a final charge to Parks. He acknowledged the inevitable highs and lows in ministry, drawing parallels to the prophet Elijah’s experiences. Ortega emphasized the crucial need for unwavering dependence on God, urging Parks to remain humble, committed and deeply grounded in Scripture and prayer. Ortega charged Parks to lead with compassion and integrity, live out a ministry of presence, lift up Jesus, laugh with those who laugh, lament with those who lament, always look to Jesus and love people as Jesus loved them. Citing Zephaniah 3:17, Ortega reminded Parks of God’s constant presence, saving power, joyful relationship, compassion and promises.
The ceremony also paid special tribute to Melshara Parks, acknowledging her vital role as she continues her journey of ministry alongside her husband. It was affirmed that her service, love and spiritual strength profoundly impact lives in seen and unseen ways, making her faithfulness a continuous blessing to the ministry. The church committed to praying for, encouraging and supporting the work God has entrusted to both of them.
By Todd Gessele
Assistant Communication Director
Photos by Emily Watts
