THE simple banner stretched across the stained glass window above the Redeemer Moravian Church altar summed it up well. ‘Celebrating life and service’ it said, aptly describing yesterday morning’s service observing Rev Michael Johnson’s 17th year in the ministry.

The service, sprinkled with funny anecdotes about the 41-year-old pastor’s boyhood, was also an occasion for his friends and associates to speak about Johnson’s attributes as a minister of religion and human being.

“He has great energy, character and commitment,” said the Rev Stanley Clarke, president of the Moravian Provincial Elders Conference.

According to Clarke, Johnson, in his six years at Redeemer, had brought a new personality to ministry there. “I know that in the years to come he will blossom more,” Clarke said.

Michael Patmore, who grew up with Johnson in Christiana, tickled the congregation with his stories about the adventures they shared as teenagers.

According to Patmore, he would often accompany Johnson to gather firewood, not because he wanted to help with the chore, but to participate in their raids of orchards and cane fields.

“God is truly amazing for what he has brought this brother from, to what he is now,” Patmore said.

Patmore, though, paid serious tribute to his friend, describing him as “a very determined young man” who was “extremely resourceful, dependable and hardworking”.

Johnson, whom Patmore said was “from humble beginnings”, was born in Christiana and entered theological college 21 years ago.

Yesterday, in a short, emotional address to his congregation, Johnson said he remembered crying the entire three hours it took him to travel from home to theological college.

“This was my first time away from home,” he explained.

Johnson, known for his lively, interactive sermons, choked for a few seconds as he reflected on his 17 years of ministry. “A 41 year-old man has a right to cry,” he told his congregation, eliciting laughter and some applause.

Yesterday’s service was, in fact, a double celebration for Johnson, who last Friday marked his birthday.

Talented musician, Dwight Richards highlighted both anniversaries in his tributes to Johnson, which included a lively, foot-stomping, hand-clapping five minutes of popular gospel choruses.

Redeemer member, Luna Walters, surprised Johnson with plaque from the church in recognition of his achievement, while Louise Rodney, an elderly member of the church, gave him a further surprise by presenting him with a gift basket and topped off the gesture with a powerful rendition of Well Done.

At the end of the service, Johnson thanked his congregation, which included specially invited guests, for their love, guidance, support and encouragement over the years.

Said Johnson: “The little thought… the friendly smile, that really big deed, that certain knowledge that I can depend on you, that word of advice, that word of caution… that understanding. It has made such a difference.”