Featured photo: Jowanne Carrigan, the honored guest, stands with Pastor Lessie Lee, left, and Apostle Patrick Payton, right.
Written by, photos by L. M. Land
We are all busy people. A simple “I appreciate you” or “thank you” to people you love is something easy to forget to do. Sometimes we lose these people and live with regret for never sharing how much we were inspired by or felt love from the person.
Apostle Patrick Payton of Greater Solid Rock Church, Saginaw, was grateful for a particular person.
Appreciation Love Day was created to honor Minister Jowanne Carrigan on December 15, 2024. On the event invitation, Payton invited God’s people to honor “this great woman of God, minister and songstress [for her] dedication to God’s ministry of service.
“On behalf of Greater Solid Rock Church, we love you!” Payton said.
Pastor Lessie Lee hosted the event at his church, House of Capernaum Deliverance Ministries, in Flint. Many local ministers were in attendance, as well as family and friends.
Many people took the mic to share stories about how much Carrigan has affected their lives, ranging from a favorite hymn sung at a loved one’s funeral or an inspiration for a huge life-changing awakening.
Carrigan is also a retired Flint police officer.
Sister Sherry Cooper of Greater Solid Rock Church told a moving story. As a teenager, Cooper was frequently in trouble. She said Police Sergeant Carrigan worked with her and saved her from going to jail. That was the turning point to a complete change in her life for the better and to Jesus!
I can personally vouch for Carrigan’s positive effect. Whether we are out eating at La Familia Morales on taco Tuesday or anywhere else, a minimum of four people will stop her to say hello or thank her for affecting their lives in some positive way.
You, our reader, probably have a story to share about Carrigan as well!
And as we turn into the new year, don’t forget to tell the people who’ve inspired you or loved you that they made a difference, and you appreciate them.
Greater Solid Rock Church, Rev. Ernest Reed, Pastor. 605 Meade St, Saginaw, MI. 989-791-7633
House of Capernaum, Pastor Lessie Lee. 3432 Pasadena, Flint, 810-787-3931
