“The Calling” Documentary Highlights Ministry of William A. Kirlew, D.Min.

Shelly Pinnock

William and Sylvia Kirlew are surrounded by family and friends at the showing of “The Calling,” which was as much a time of praise to God as it was of recognition of humble service. Pictured are Sylvia and William Kirlew, D.Min. (seated); Gervon Marsh (standing, left), Florida Conference pastoral ministries field associate; Therese Kirlew, daughter; John Mills, executive producer; Eric Allen, Maranatha elder; and Garry Gordon (back), Lauderhill pastor.

Karl Pinnock

For the first time in Broward County, “The Calling,” a documentary of the ministry and legacy of William A. Kirlew, D.Min., pastor, was presented on screen, Saturday, December 9, 2023, for all to share in his journey of faith, sacrifice, and joy.

Kirlew’s impact has been far-reaching and merits celebration for the innumerable lives influenced for the Kingdom. If not for God’s calling, this part of the world could have looked much different. In south Florida alone, Kirlew established 17 churches over a 21-year period, beginning with Maranatha in 1976, and including the event venue itself, Lauderhill, which he founded in 1982. William A. Kirlew Junior Academy also came into fruition.

Prior to 1976, Kirlew began serving in ministry in his home country of Jamaica, where he established churches, pastored up to 13 churches at a time, and baptized hundreds. He followed God’s leading to serve in the United States, eventually settling in Florida.

“The Calling” brings out the details and facts of a life being well-lived. Kevin Campbell, director; John Mills, executive producer; Stephen Stewart, producer; and Garry Gordon, Lauderhill pastor/producer, strived to reflect the challenges and the conviction and trust in God Kirlew had to exhibit in order to overcome those challenges.

Kirlew was in attendance with Sylvia Joy Levy Kirlew, his wife of more than 65 years; Therese Kirlew, one of their six children; and a host of friends and supporters. The processional included an escort of Lauderhill Pioneer Pathfinders and Adventurers flanked by the Drum Corp. Songs of thanksgiving, prayer, and testimonies filled the program, which also included recognition by Lauderhill Church, the Florida Conference, and the city of Lauderhill. A Proclamation from Florida State Representative Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick was read, and Hazelle Rogers, commissioner, presented a Proclamation on behalf of Broward County. The final words were a covering prayer by Gervon Marsh, pastoral ministries field associate for Florida Conference.

The program ended, but the journey continues. At 103 years of age, Kirlew, although retired, is still active. Ministry for him is not merely a job, it is his calling — which he is doing with grace, in love, and with honor.

Florida | March 2024