Sweet Haven 3 has
been blessed with Elder Bobby J. Butler, a
dedicated Pastor who serves God's people through
the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Butler
understands that the needs of the people are
many, and that it takes many people to meet
those needs. Therefore, God blessed Sweet Haven
3 with a staff of dedicated and loving
individuals who have committed their time,
talents, and treasures to minister to the needs
of Sweet Haven 3.
History
In
1987, God touched the heart of Nathaniel
Johnson and told him to "build a house unto
my name." The thought was pondered over for
many months and found to be of God. The
Bible says in Mark 8:34 "whosoever will come
after me, let him deny himself, and take up
his cross and follow me." It wasn't easy,
but Elder Johnson was obedient; he left all
to follow Christ!
On August 9, 1987, Sweet Haven Holy Church of God #3
was established in Watertown, NY. The search for a
place to worship for Sweet Haven was not an easy
task. After many disappointments, God touched the
hearts of the Mennoinite members. They allowed the
Sweet Haven family the use of the sanctuary. There
were many busy months, but Elder Johnson stood the
test of time. Through much hard and good leadership,
Elder Johnson and Sweet Haven members saved
enough money to purchase a piece of land. There were
three sites selected, but none were by God. Remember
Abraham thought that was the place where God had
sent him, but it wasn't. Well, as you can see those
selected sites were not where God wanted the church
to be built. God showed Elder Johnson the place
where Sweet Haven now stands, and it was so. In July
of 1990, Sweet Haven H.C.O.G. #3 was finally
completed and worship services began.
In later years, Elder Johnson was
ordained Bishop and made Vice-Bishop of the Holy
Church of God. Then later he became Bishop of the
work. In 1995, Elder Bobby J. Butler was installed
as assistant pastor of Sweet Haven Holy Church of
God #3. In the absence of Bishop Johnson, Elder
Butler continued to carry on the vision. In 1996,
Elder Butler was entrusted as Pastor of Sweet Haven
#3. Even though the "driver" has changed, the vision
has not changed. Under the leadership of Pastor
Butler, Sweet Haven #3 has continued to build upon
the foundation of the church vision, for the
edifying of the body of Christ.
We are truly thankful to the Lord for giving Bishop
Nathaniel C. Johnson the vision to establish this
church, and then entrusting the role of Pastorship
to Elder Bobby J. Butler. The membership at Sweet
Haven #3 has grown to over 200+ members and
continues to grow as the Lord guides Pastor Butler
to lead the people. May the Lord continues to bless
the Sweet Haven Family!
