On Sunday, June30th, 2024, I had the privilege of attending Living Hope Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, E. Massapequa, NY., for the 33rd Pastoral anniversary of Rev. Dr. Patricia A. Rickenbacker. I counted it not robbery to attend because Dr. Rickenbacker has been serving ecclesiastically throughout Long Island, the metropolitan area, and upstate New York. She carries the torch of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is armed with love of God and the sweet communion of the Holy Spirit.

The Millennials’ call their 33rd year, the Jesus year; since Jesus’ lived for 33 years prior to His
crucifixion. Thirty-three years of serving people in the community (near and far), requires
strength, courage, confidence, power, and wisdom. Dr. Patricia A. Rickenbacker exudes these
characteristics and more. She has stood in the gap for many to help them cross and break
barriers to improve their lives. Her professional impact has been demonstrated in the
Wyandanch and Amityville school districts as a High School Guidance Counselor (retired). Her
heart for children, and their family-life has always been at the core of her existence. Spiritually,
we witnessed her leap of faith when she founded “The Living Hope Fellowship Missionary
Baptist Church,” 33 years ago; and became the “first woman” elected into the office of Dean at
the Empire State Baptist Convention Inc.

Preparation is the key to her sustainability to touch and transform the lives of so many! Her
Masters in Education and Doctorate in Theology serves as a springboard to enlightening others.
She continues to utilize her gifting in her local church as the Senior pastor; with the Eastern Baptist Association, currently sitting as Vice-Moderator; and still serving with the Empire State Baptist Convention, Inc. (former Dean of Christian Education). She also an adjunct professor at NY Theological Seminary. Pastor Pat teaches, preaches, and ministers to those that are in need. She has broken many barriers for women in ministry and for those who are underprivileged. Her church doors are open to the homeless, hurting, and helpless! Her team is always ready to meet the needs of others. Many have found refuge in the arms of the Living Hope Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. She has been instrumental to Women in Ministry. We were able to follow in her footsteps to find our place in the kingdom of God. Despite doors and/or pulpit doors being closed, Dr. Pat persevered to reach the mark of the high calling in Christ Jesus