25th Anniversary Digital Souvenir Book

More Anniversary Tributes

messages and letters only available online

Tribute from Men’s and Women’s Ministry
The Men’s and Women’s Ministry of Antioch Chicago proudly congratulates Dr. Gerald M. Dew and First Lady Marva Y. Dew on this silver milestone.
Pastor Dew, your consistent preaching, teaching, and shepherding have built a firm foundation of faith and integrity within Antioch. First Lady Dew, your partnership in ministry—both beside and alongside Pastor Dew—has created a powerful legacy of unity, grace, and gospel witness. Together, you exemplify what it means to serve God’s Kingdom with humility, strength, and love.
We thank Almighty God for you and for the blessing you have been to Antioch. We look forward with joy and expectation to many more years of growth, favor, and divine blessings under your leadership.
Tribute from Usher’s and Health Ministry
How can we truly say thank you for all the ways you have supported, encouraged, preached to, prayed for, visited, and uplifted us throughout these 25 years? Words hardly seem enough. So we simply say, “Thank You, God,” for sending Pastor and Sister Dew to Antioch. Pastor Dew also introduced the concept of viewing ministry with wisdom and stewardship — teaching us how to budget, plan, and effectively manage the resources God has provided. Because of this vision, our ministries have become stronger and more efficient. From the Usher’s and Health Ministry we celebrate and honor you both for your faithful service and unwavering dedication.
 
Happy 25th Pastoral Anniversary
Rev. Dr. Gerald M. Dew & Sister Marva Dew
Tribute from Tyreece L. Ceaser
Dr. Dew and First Lady, 
It is with a humble heart and sincere love that I send my congratulations to each of you on this  25th Pastoral Anniversary. The two of you have done great things since your tenure at Antioch, and I believe there are still some phenomenal outcomes ahead! I appreciate you both for being servant leaders. Pillars in the community, and a guiding light to so many in these dark and perilous times. As you keep God first, and keep pressing towards the mark of the higher calling in Christ Jesus- blessing’s shall be your portion. 

Respectfully,
Tyreece L. Ceaser
Tribute from Deacon Jesse E. Burns (extended version)
Tribute to Pastor Gerald M. Dew

I have had the privilege of knowing and serving with Pastor Dew for more than twenty-five years. During that time, he has been not only my pastor, but a cherished friend. Every time we meet or have a conversation, it turns into a teaching session.
He always says he is a lifelong student of God’s Word. His leadership, faith, and devotion continues to shape the life of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.
I have watched him—through the help of God—faithfully guide the congregation for years. His tenure stands as a testament to his steadfast commitment, spiritual maturity, and unwavering dedication to God’s people. I recall telling him, “If it was me as the Pastor, I would turn my hat backwards and give a good testimony, telling the church good-bye. I am out!” He then shared with me that God sent him to Antioch MBC so he could lead, even if the church was unable to pay him a salary. That was major to me. I knew then that God sent him to Antioch and that he was a child of God.
After that, I observed Pastor Dew being tested in many areas of his life and leadership. With the help of God, he passed every test. Another significant test of his leadership came during one of the most tragic moments in Antioch’s history. On Good Friday, April 15, 2022, the historic Antioch sanctuary was destroyed by fire. I watched as Pastor Dew stood firm, telling us that the church is defined by its people, their faith, unity, and mission—not by the building. He led with calm assurance, organizing rebuilding efforts, securing resources, and guiding the church forward with hope and purpose.
Under his leadership, Antioch adopted its Mission and Vision Statements, a Standard of Excellence, and the powerful theme: “We are the Fellowship of Empowerment,” clarifying the church’s identity and reinforcing its call to “Win the Lost and Make Disciples.” These guiding principles strengthened the congregation and ensured that Antioch remained focused on God’s work, even in times of adversity.
Having served as Chairman of the Official Board for many years, I have greatly admired Pastor Dew’s wisdom, humility, and servant leadership. His ability to lead with clarity, compassion, and spiritual discernment has inspired countless members and leaders alike. He is a shepherd who leads not only with words, but with faith-filled action.
I am grateful for our enduring relationship and for the lasting impact Pastor Dew continues to have on Antioch MBC and the wider community. His legacy of faith, perseverance, and empowerment will continue to guide generations to come.

With deep respect and admiration,
Deacon Jesse E. Burns
Tribute from Officers Wives, Ministers Wives and Widows Ministry
For our Pastor, Ephesians 4:11 reminds us, “And He gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.” We thank God for sending us not only a Pastor, but a teacher, a shepherd, a leader, and so much more. Pastor Dew, we deeply appreciate your leadership, guidance, sound teaching, kindness, fellowship, and love. 
For our First Lady, Proverbs 18:22 declares, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” You have faithfully stood beside our Pastor, covering this church in prayer and serving God’s people with grace, compassion, and unwavering strength. You have modeled Christian womanhood and steadfast partnership in ministry, leaving an imprint on our church family that words cannot fully express.

As we celebrate this Twenty-Fifth Pastoral Anniversary, our hearts are full of gratitude and love. We thank God for your faithfulness, your sacrifices, and your continued “yes” to His calling.

Happy Anniversary
The Officers Wives, Ministers Wives and Widows Ministry
Tribute from Antioch Music Ministry
Colossians 3:16 says: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
We the Music Ministry of AMBC would like to wish our wonderful Pastor Gerald M Dew, and our beautiful First Lady Marva Y. Dew a Happy and Glorious 25th Anniversary ❤️
Deacon S Wade Foster President
Brother Jeral Gray Director Of Music
Tribute from January Birth Ministry
The January Birth Month Ministry joyfully honors our Pastor and First Lady on their Twenty-Fifth Pastoral Anniversary. For 25 years, they have faithfully led this congregation with vision, compassion, and commitment to God’s Word and His people. Their support of our ministry’s Share the Warmth outreach reflects their servant hearts and dedication to both the church and
the community. As we celebrate this milestone, we thank God for their faithfulness, their example of love and unity, and the lasting impact of their leadership on our church family.
With love, January Birth Month Ministry
- Sister Billie Ross, President
Tribute from February Birth Month Ministry
Pastor and Sister Dew, Happy 25th Pastoral Anniversary. We thank God that you both are very approachable and caring for the people of Antioch. We love and appreciate you both.

 The February Birth Month Ministry
 - Sister Dorothy Barnes- President
Tribute from March Birth Month Ministry
The March Birth Month Ministry extends its heartfelt congratulations to our esteemed pastor, Dr. Gerald M. Dew, and First Lady, Marva Y. Dew, on the occasion of their 25th Anniversary. We extend our sincere gratitude for your unwavering commitment, Christ-centered leadership, and exemplary representation of true
partnership in ministry. Your nurturing infl uence has fostered our faith and catalyzed our spiritual growth. We are immensely privileged to have you as our shepherd, guiding our church community. Your presence in our lives is deeply cherished, and we extend our joyous celebration of this milestone. We extend our blessings and fervent prayers for many more blessed years of your divine guidance. HAPPY 25TH ANNIVERSARY! Yours in Christ,
 
March Birth Month Ministry
- Sister Bobbie Shepherd -President
Tribute from April Birth Month Ministry
Pastor Dew and First Lady Dew, We would like to thank God for the both of you. You and your teachings, leadership and love are truly a blessing to us all.
April Birth Month Ministry
- Sister Ruth Holmes - President
Tribute from May Birth Ministry
CONGRATULATIONS TO REV. DR. GERALD M. DEW AND MRS. MARVA Y. DEW. WE ARE THANKFUL TO BOTH OF YOU FOR 25 YEARS OFSERVICE TO THE ANTIOCH M. B. CHURCH. WE APPREICATE ALL THE SUPPORT THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN TO ALL THE MEMBERS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP AS PASTOR AND SUPPORT AS FIRST LADY. IT HAS BEEN A PLEASURE TO BE MEMBERS OF THE ANTIOCH M. B. CHURCH. THE LORD SENT YOU TO US 25 YEARS AGO AND WE STAND WITH YOU AND SUPPORT YOU. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 25 YEARS PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY. GOD BLESS BOTH OF YOU! LOVINGLY PRESENTED,
THE MAY BIRTHDAY MINISTRY
- REGINA KENT- PRESIDENT
Tribute from June Birth Month Ministry
To our Pastor, You lead our congregation forward by opening God’s Word. Then you live your life reflecting all we’ve heard. You, along with our First Lady, care for others deeply, lifting us up in prayer when we face misfortune or are in need. We know that you will always be there. We really love you Pastor and First Lady, for everything you do. We thank God for giving us a Pastor like you. June Birth Month Ministry Sister Beatrice Grooms- President
Tribute from July Birthday Month Ministry
Happy Anniversary to our cherished Pastor, our 1st Lady, your incredible journey together is a beautiful testament to God's grace, inspiring our whole Church Family with steadfast Love, Faith, and dedicated leadership; may your commitment continue to strengthen as you lead us in his Light for many more Blessed years to come. May God continue to watch over you both.

Thank you Pastor Dew, Lady Marva Dew.
Tribute from August Birth Month Ministry
Dear Pastor Dew, The August Birthday Ministry would like to congratulate you on 25 years of life-changing, committed, and faithful leadership. It’s been a quarter of a century and we can truly say, “time fl ies when you’re having fun- or in this case - when you have a
dynamic pastor! Twenty-fi ve years is a remarkable milestone - it takes grit and determination to lead in times like these; you’ve done it with dignity, grace, and humility. Thank you, Pastor Dew, for these 25 years of tireless dedication and for always being there. May the Lord continue to bless, strengthen, and empower you as you lead us forward. With sincere appreciation and love,

The August Birth Month Ministry
- President -
Tribute from September Birth Month Ministry
Pastor Dew, Grace be unto you and peace from God our Father and from The Lord Jesus Christ- I Corinthians 1:3. Pastor, we thank God for you and pray that
He will continue to grant you grace, knowledge and favor as He leads you to lead and guide His people. The past 25 years have been wonderful and inspiring, BUT, we all know you haven’t preached your best sermon yet. We look forward to and patiently wait for it as we follow where God leads you. First Lady, you are beautiful inside and out. The light of God shines through your eyes and smile. We thank God for you as well as our Pastor. We pray the Lord will continue to bless, keep and favor you both with many more years of faithful leadership to the Antioch MB Church. Happy 25th Pastoral Anniversary. We love you both. Love and Prayers,

The September Birth Ministry
- Sister Cheryl Foster - President
Tribute from October Birth Month Ministry
The October Birth Month Ministry congratulates Pastor Gerald M. Dew and First Lady Marva Y. Dew on their 25th Anniversary. Your dedication, faith, and leadership have been a profound blessing.

Sincerely, October Birth Month Ministry
- Deacon Edward Shepherd-President
Tribute from November Birth Month Ministry
To the best Pastor and First Lady in the world! Pastor and First Lady Dew, we would like to wish you both a Happy 25th year Church Anniversary. May you continue to be blessed.

November Birth Month Ministry
- Sister Linda Pruitt- President
Tribute from December Birth Month Ministry
To our Dear Pastor and First Lady, Happy 25th Church Anniversary. Thank you both for for being who you are and the love and support you have shown us through our joyous as well as the difficult times. Much love and gratitude.
December Birth Month Ministry
- Sister Sharon Winn- President.

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