Local Pastor Welcomed Home

The parking lot was overflowing on Sunday as members of the filled the sanctuary and fellowship hall to welcome home Pastor Stephen Tillett.

Tillett, a member of the U.S. Air National Guard Reserves, was assigned to Dover Air Force Base in December.

“I had three assignments there,” explained Tillett. “One was to offer prayer as the planes arrived with the remains of fallen Americans from Iraq and Afghanistan. The second was to meet with the families of the fallen who had come to witness the transfer of the remains. The third was to work with those involved in processing or identifying remains.”

It was a difficult and sobering duty for the pastor who is lifted up regularly by the joy of his congregation at home.

“It was truly sensory overload,” said Tillett of his experience. “I am over 50 and I would see kids really, soldiers in their 20s, coming home in coffins.”

But despite the sadness, he was lifted up by the dignity and faith shown by the families of the fallen.

“The families really encouraged me,” said Tillett. “Even though their hearts were broken, they were so proud of the service of their loved ones.”

Sadness from the duty was lifted as Tillett greeted church members who were happy to have him back on Sunday.

“I have to say, I was a little nervous returning to the pulpit,” admitted Tillett, who easily found his comfort zone right after starting the sermon. Throughout Sunday's service he would note the things he had missed over the past six months, including the talents of his members and interaction with the children of the church.

Alva Sheppard-Johnson, the director of the church’s summer academy for children, said his homecoming was a special treat for her students. “They were so happy to see him,” she said after the church service and during the church’s welcome home ceremony Sunday. “It was a beautiful sight, all of their smiling faces as they ran to him.”

Sunday’s celebration had a “New Beginnings” theme, as Tillett returned with a new perspective on meeting the needs of his members.

“It’s always helpful to get new perspectives once you have been away,” said Tillett. “I want to hear about what has been going on here and what I can do differently for my congregation.”