The Tribune

MINISTER Uhijah Johnson has lived through two world wars; witnessed the defining shift in power to the black majority in the Bahamas and saw the birth of a nation in 1973. The celebrated centenarian has seen much, but remains in awe of the many blessings he has received.

Celebrating a 100th birthday is no small feat, so dozens of family members and well-wishers in the Church of God of Prophecy recognised the blessing of Minister Johnson at a special birthday celebration. Bishop Dr Elgarnet B. Rahming, national overseer, acknowledged Minister Johnson as the eighth centenarian in his church’s membership during his time in leadership.

According to the United Nations, there were approximately 316,600 centenarians around the world in 2012.

The Johnson family marked their patriarch’s special milestone with a jubilant gala at the British Colonial Hilton. Minister Johnson was treated to a king’s welcome as he arrived in a stretch limousine amidst trumpet fanfare.

The atmosphere was highly charged and praises and admiration were showered on the 100-year-old native of Lovely Bay, Acklins. Born January 20, 1913, Minister Johnson spent most of his youthful years in the tiny settlement of Moss Town, Crooked Island where he matriculated through the All Age School. Described as “an unassuming, reticent gentleman” Minister Johnson is, nonetheless, assertive. In the late 1930s, he caught the eye of Ellen Ferguson, a native of Crooked Island, whom he promised to marry. The couple wedded in 1937 and almost 76 years later they continue to enjoy marital bliss. Together, they have raised seven children: Ena Johnson-Ferguson, Oralee Johnson-Whylly, David, Roland, Linville, Martin, and Anthony Johnson.

It was during the early 1940s that Minister Johnson experienced his “call” to ministry and earnestly held church meetings and bible study sessions at his homestead. After experiencing exponential membership growth, he was forced to establish a church building at Fair Field, Crooked Island. Years later, in 1971, he relocated to New Providence and took up residence in the Marathon community. His church home became the Church of God of Prophecy, East St. Tabernacle where he served faithfully in the evangelism ministry for many years.

Sharing in the centenarian’s birthday celebration with remarks, reflections and musical tributes were Bishop Dr. Elgarnet B. Rahming; Church of God of Prophecy East Street Tabernacle pastors Bishop Franklin M. Ferguson, Bishop Woodley Thompson and Minister Kendal Simmons; Hon. Jerome Fritzgerald, M.P. and Minister of Education; Pastor Lyal Bethel, Grace Community Chapel and Pastor Emeritus Rex Major, Grace Community Chapel. An elated Minister Johnson also shared his special day with his children, grandchildren and many others. Bishop Hulan A. Hanna served as the moderator.