Linda J. Ivey Ministries
Reverend Dr. Mary Hall
Chapter Title: Like A Fire in My Bones
Signature Scripture
Psalm 34:8
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good.”
Church Membership: Zion Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA
Reverend Dr. Hall’s Background: A Philadelphia resident who has been serving God all her life and serving as a reverend with Zion Baptist Church for over forty years through her ministry of Evangelism.
Reverend Dr. Hall’s Challenges: unfortunately received her Call during a time when women were restricted from the pulpit. Her pastor cared about her spiritual growth, but not her Calling to preach for he remained adamant about women not becoming ministers. While she continued to be a faithful member, she was heartbroken with his decision.
Reverend Dr. Hall’s Inner Strength: was frustrated because she hungered to preach and teach God’s Word. It was like a fire in her bones that made her weary trying to hold it. She had to give birth to the Word of God in Christ Jesus. She understood the life changing importance of ministry and knew if she didn’t answer her Call, God would see her as the servant who hid his talents rather than multiply them. She refused to have God chasten her for not pursuing her Call because someone told her “no” or “not yet” or “maybe someday”, but not now.
Reverend Dr. Hall’s Tenacity: discovered how rejection is a powerful emotion, which can either break you or make you stronger, more determined to serve God. It did the latter for her. She felt the spirit of Daniel encircle her remembering Daniel was punished by the king for refusing to bow down and ignore his beliefs.
- Reverend Dr. Hall’s Journey: The Lord led me to become a member of the New Hope Baptist Church. I was Called to pick up the mantle at this church under the pastoralship of Rev. Dr. Clarence Pemberton. Pastor Pemberton’s revelation was a bittersweet moment for me. I was relieved and thankful to God for the confirmation, but I was saddened by it because it was not done by my previous pastor.
- Reverend Dr. Hall’s Testimony: My greatest accomplishment in ministry has been leading people to Christ. I was the chairperson for a Christian radio station coming out of New Jersey for the Pennsylvania Baptist Clergy Women and Eastern Region president of the ministry for a three-year tenure. I have also volunteered my services at the Cheltenham Nursing Home where I taught Tuesday bible classes and preached on the second Sunday. I currently conduct Good Friday services at the Venango House Apartments, which I started seventeen years ago. I’ve invited mighty anointed women to speak at the various services only to learn later as women, they weren’t allowed to preach at their own churches. They were so grateful God had provided them an opportunity to preach to His people.