If a man therefore purges himself from these, he shall be a vessel of honor, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.”
2 Timothy 2:21

Elder Patricia Pender is a woman whose life reflects a hunger and thirst after a close relationship with God.  Her actions and decisions document her ability to “hear” God’s voice in her innermost being.  She received the Holy Ghost in 1965, and has been a member of the Beth-El Temple Church of Christ for over forty-nine years.  Understanding that her witness extended beyond the church walls, she has covered and nurtured her husband, Pastor Richard Pender, Sr., as well as their two children, Cheryl and the late Richard Pender, Jr.

Having embraced personal holiness, the key to spiritual power, she has continued to strive for total obedience to the Lord. She has sat at the Master’s feet and has been taught to adorn herself in the armor of God.  Not only does she adorn herself, but she teaches others to use their armor effectively.  Elder Pender received her Doctorate in Christian Education from the North Carolina College of Theology, a Masters Degree in Theology from the Logos Seminary and Graduate School, a Masters Degree from Morgan State University in Educational Supervision and Administration; and Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from the same and a diploma in Biblical Studies from Howard University School of Divinity.  Elder Pender serves as the Director of Christian Education for her church and also holds the title of Vice-President and Dean of the Beth-El Temple College of Theology.  She has continued to avail herself to God’s call.  Walking in the office of a Teacher, she has instructed and assisted several Pastors in developing their Aspirant Ministries and Ministerial Leaders. For over forty-nine years she has been under the training of great leaders and the Word of God for her appointed walk with God. Not every “Yes” has been easy.  Not every “Yes” has been absent of sacrifice, but yet her heart continues to speak and respond “Yes Lord.”