Lake Region Conference’s very own Dr. Eddie Allen, Vice President for Multilingual Ministries, received a Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Service in Regional Conference work on December 7th, in Huntsville, Alabama, at the annual Pastoral Evangelism and Leadership Council (PELC). This prestigious honor was presented by Dr. Jesse Wilson, Chair of the PELC Committee; Dr. Carlton Byrd, President of the Southwest Region Conference; and Elder Furman Fordham, II.

During his heartfelt acceptance speech, Dr. Allen shared that pastoral ministry was not part of his original plan. “I never dreamed of becoming a pastor,” he admitted. “I fell into it by accident—literally.” Despite the unexpected turn in his life, he embraced his calling by living out his personal mantra: “Shine a light, don’t cast a shadow on the pathway of others. Expect the unexpected, always remembering that you are God’s highest priority.”

Dr. Allen concluded his remarks by expressing his deep appreciation for his colleagues and their shared mission. “I firmly believe that the best pastors in the North American Division are right here in the Lake Region Conference,” he declared.

Dr. Allen was joined by fellow honorees, including G. Alexander Bryant, Pastor George L. Byers, Dr. D. Robert Kennedy, Elder Philip Palmer, Dr. Carlyle Simmons, and Gayle Jones Murphy. Congratulations to Dr. Eddie Allen and all the honorees on this well-deserved recognition!