Life’s Reflections…
And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself.
The only son of the late Mable Williams Gorum, Bernard was born October 21, 1945 in London Bridge, VA; a division later merged with the City of Virginia Beach, VA. He attended the public schools graduating from Union Kempsville High in 1963. An erudite, he began undergraduate studies at Norfolk State University. After 2 years, he completed his studies at Virginia Commonwealth University.
He received Graduate studies at Pace University and Williamsburg University respectively. After being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities from Wilbur Waters Seminary, he went on to complete Post Graduate studies at Williamsburg University.
Upon entering the work force, Bernard held a variety of high-profile jobs. Among them, he worked as a Vice President for Federal City Engineering in Washington DC. After Religious Studies, he was ordained by the National Association Council of Community Churches. He organized New Covenant Community Church. The church later emerged with Faith Bible Church becoming New Covernant Faith Bible Church. He was elevated and Consecrated as a Bishop under Victory Christian Alliance in October, 1999 by the late Bishop Paul A. Thomas and appointed Northern Jurisdictional Prelate. The ministry was eventually renamed New Covenant Church, where he remained Pastor for 23 years until declining health forced him to retire.
As a consummate musician, Bernard was highly recognized and respected as a church organist in Virginia Beach, Washington, DC, and NYC. His marriage to Carolyn Renee Johnson ended in divorce. He recorded 2 CDs and was the author of several books.
He preceded in death, brother-in-law, Freddie Gregory as a brother.
Left to cherish his memory are 5 sisters; Bernette Gregory, Suedeanna Kirkland, Rosie Olds, Vernice Olds, and Barbara Artis; 2 brothers, Willie Olds, Larry [Karen] Grimstead; godsons, Bobby Dunmore, Dr. Micheal Perry, Russell Battle; Spiritual daughters, Lorrie King [Morris], Joy Sivels; several adopted grandchildren; Spiritual mother, Christine Carter; Spiritual adopted family; Robert, Sam, Andre Carter; Dr, Antoinette [Leonard] Owens, Dorothy C. Carter, Lisa Carter. 1 aunt, Minnie Jordan Williams and a host of relatives and friends.
