On Saturday afternoon, Reverend Jacob Parker was recognized for his 49 years of service in the community and for being a beacon of light to Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.
Dozens of members and local residents stood by to watch the unveiling of a sign in front of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.
Pastor Parker has left a lasting impression on local leaders and the community. Lisa Chapman, a member of the church, says that this is the kind of leader the community needs.
"He is an awesome man of God. My husband and I couldn't asked to be under better leadership than Reverend Jacob Parker," said Chapman. "Very humble person if you saw him in the street, he is the same way if you see him in the church. He's the same way."
Commissioner Al Tillman read the proclamation and is glad the idea of naming a street after Parker has come to fruition.
"A few years ago, this was one of the first resolutions that I introduced to the commission to pass and it passed unanimously and we are honored and thrilled today to finally put forth this memorial sign recognizing Elm Street as Pastor Jacob Parker Way," said Tillman.
Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones accepted the proclamation on behalf of the pastor’s absence. He told the crowd to continue to uplift the family after the shooting death of Parker's grandson just hours before.
"I’m asking everyone to keep Reverend Parker and the Parker Family in your prayers. I want you to keep this great church in your prayers," said Jones.
There will be a celebration service on Sunday with Rev. I.E. Mack and the Unionville Baptist Church at 1:30 p.m.