The Man And The Ministry

 

 

“But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein,

 he being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work;

 this man shall be blessed in his deed. ”

James 1:25

 

 

William Henderson Cheek, Sr. is truly a blessed man whom God has used in a mighty way to impact the lives of many in Halifax County and surrounding areas.  This man marvels at what God has done through the years since he made the decision to leave Washington, DC and return to his native North Carolina.

 Born on March 3, 1922 to Jimmy and Pauline Johnson Cheek, he was one of seven children.  While very young, his father died leaving him to be nurtured and trained by his mother and praying grandmother.  By their example, he learned the importance of obedience and respect for God very early.  Later in life God would remind him that the prayers of his grandmother were still being answered in his life.

 He received his early education from Halifax County Schools and later studied at the George Washington Carver Vocational School for auto bodywork.  His theological training was acquired at Shaw University and supplemented by various Bible courses and conferences.

 As a young man, he served his country in the Army from 1942 to 1946.  His tour of duty included traveling to many areas of Europe.  He was honorably discharged in 1946.

 When he returned home from his military service, he married the love of his life, the former Lucille Parker who provided him a wonderful home and family.  Through the years she has been a steadfast, energetic, spirit-filled, and loving companion.  She blessed him with a peaceful home life with their seven children, Diane, William Jr., Alvin, Valerie, Karl, Carol, and Edgar.  Flourishing from their children they have many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

 He made his wisest decision when he took his wife and four children at that time to church on one Sunday morning in 1958 and gave his heart and life to Jesus Christ.  Loving his wife and family and not wanting to see them take public transportation to church, he decided to take them and accompany them to the service.  Hearing the message and being drawn by the Holy Spirit, he went to the altar and asked how he could know that he was saved.

 Later, he joined New Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Washington, DC under the leadership of the late Rev. Raymond Jones.  There he matured in the ministry and became a deacon, superintendent of Sunday school, and assistant pastor.

 Then in 1963, God led him back to minister to the needs of those in Eastern North Carolina.  He had a hunger to share the good news that Jesus Christ can change lives and lift anyone from the gutters and dungeons of sin.  Overcoming many obstacles, he started to share the scriptures in the streets, homes and various locations in the area.  From his house, he taught the Word of God.  He taught the people how to study and live by the Bible, God’s inspired Word.  Many in his community in Tillery, NC received Christ as Savior – even whole households were restored and changed!

 As Pastor Cheek labored, his family labored with him and transported many to his home for services.  When many souls were added to the ministry, a move was made to Shady Grove School, and then in 1969 the ministry moved to Weldon, NC.  With only his family, Rev. William H. Howard and his family along with $100.00 to rent a building, the ‘Storefront’ ministry was born.  His co-laborer and wife, Mother Lucille Cheek, said, “God sent the souls in off the street – young people.  They were the ones we wanted – the ones who didn’t know God.  They didn’t even pretend to know Him.  They were thirsty for the Word and  Pastor Cheek fed them and the ministry grew.”

Today Bishop William H. Cheek, Sr. is still a blessed man at age 89!  He is the pastor and founder of Evangelistic Church of Deliverance and is still anointed to preach the Word of God and lead people to the abundant life that only Jesus can give.  More than ever, he is confident that he’s doing the will of God.  With such powerful texts as ‘Face It’, ‘Save Yourselves’, ‘Grace to Do God’s Will’, and ‘Living to Please God’, all who hear him are taught the plain and simple truth of the gospel for everyday life.  Because God blessed this man and the ministry tremendously, there are numerous members who have gone to be prosperous in all walks of life locally, nationally, and internationally. 

 Bishop Cheek and the ministry of Evangelistic Church of Deliverance have greatly impacted our community spiritually, socially, and financially.  In addition to worship services, the ministry has provided Christian guidance, donations, meeting space, grants supporting senior citizens and males in the community, food and clothing distribution, sponsorships for projects in our schools, and other contributions that have assisted many in our area and other missions worldwide.

 The ministry of this blessed man was built on faith and love – faith in Jesus and love for souls.  Down through the years, God has been so good.  Look where He brought this blessed man and the ministry!

               

  • 1969  Started the Store Front ministry.
  • 1970  Purchased the Batchelor Movie Theater for the sanctuary located at 22 East Second Street. 
  • 1979  Purchased the Western Auto store for Sunday school annex and fellowship hall.
  • 1985  Completed renovations of the sanctuary.
  • 1988  Erected the Administration building on the lot between the sanctuary and Annex to house the Pastor’s study, choir
    •            rooms, prayer rooms, and Young Adult classroom.
  • 1992  Purchased  Bounds Motor Company for a parking lot and Recreational Facility.
  • 1993  Celebrated the Church's Mortgage burning!
  • 1997  Purchased the Knight property for a parking lot.  Currently houses the "Health and Wellness Center".
  • 2000  Purchased numerous properties in Weldon for parking lots.
  • 2001  Completed New Sanctuary at 195 Sycamore Street!
  • 2009  Celebrated 40 years in the ministry.  TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOR THE GREAT THINGS HE HAS DONE!

“This Is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. ”

Psalm 118:23