Doorkeeper Oct 2025

SANTA CLARA DISTRICT Paulette Little, District President We bring you Greetings & Love

“For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” Psalm 84:10

The Santa Clara District Ushers were blessed to host the 84th State Convention this year at the beautiful Courtyard by Marriott San Jose North/Silicon Valley. The theme was “Empowering One Another in the Body of Christ in Unity,” Jude 1:20-22. It was truly a spirit-filled and wonderful convention, enjoyed by all. From the very beginning to the end, God received all the glory. He led, guided, and blessed the planning every step of the way. A special thank you to all who worked tirelessly to make this a memorable convention as we praised God. Our dynamic host was Santa Clara’s Spiritual Advisor, Rev. Ken James, Associate Pastor and his church, Open Bible Faith Community Church. The fabulous coordinator for our convention was Usher Barbara Cofield who worked with a fantastic planning committee: Ushers Machelle Clark, Pam Bates, Sharon Neeley, Tonya Parks, Arlene Henry, Donna Braxton, Pamela Farley, Doris Blakely, Harold Jones, Anitra Galloway, Regina Williams, and Sister Sandra Towner. Of course, the success could not have been complete without our special guests, musicians, soloists, the California Delegates, and the hotel staff who treated us as their special VIPs, prepared and served delicious meals each day. A buffet was provided to us when checked out on Saturday morning. These are just a few highlights from our three-day convention: The State Convention opened with a joyful spirit as delegates gathered for the Welcome Program. We were honored to have retired Superior Court Judge and author of Preside, the Honorable Judge Shelyna V. Brown, deliver greetings and officially welcome everyone to San Jose and to our 84th State Convention. The evening was filled with fellowship, music, and words of encouragement that set the tone for the days ahead. This year at our 84 th State Convention the Alumni and Outreach Departments gave a $500.00 to the TWIS Organization of San Jose. TWIS stands for “Turning Weaknesses into Strengths.” TWIS vision is to empower formerly incarcerated individuals to become independent, responsible, and productive citizens. The money given to TWIS Services, Inc. will be spent on backpacks filled with twenty-three personal items that will be given to returning citizens who have been recently released. Pictured from left to right are Paulette Little, Alumni Chairperson, Dr. Barbara Dawson, founder/President, and TWIS Board Members.

We recognized three ushers on Thursday during the Vivian Gilner Public Relations/William H. Davis Luncheon for their outstanding contributions to their church, community, district, and state. The following ushers were recognized: Usher Pamela Bates - recipient of recognition by the Public Relations Committee: Ushers Machelle Clark and Arlene Henry recipients of the Medal of Honor from the William H. Davis Honor Club. Our Memorial Committee recognized our fallen ushers with a memorable program thanking them for their service from 2024-2025. Usher Sharon Neeley presented a tribute in ASL, Nevaeh Jackson (Youth Usher) read a poem, a Power Point Presentation was done by Usher Barbara Cofield, and the Ritualistic Service done by Emmanuell Baptist Church Team - Ushers Harold Jones, Merthelma Taylor, Tonya Parks, and Effie Murphy. Pastor Greg Nolan, Pastor of Greater St. John Baptist Church, brought Words of Encouragement as we remembered our brothers and sisters who have gone before us.