Wheeling Officials Present Bishop Darrell Cummings With Key to City
WHEELING - Officials in the city of Wheeling on Tuesday night presented a proclamation honoring longtime community leader Bishop Darrell Cummings, who also was presented with a key to the city.
During Tuesday night’s meeting of Wheeling City Council, Mayor Denny Magruder read the proclamation recognizing the achievements of Cummings. Last month, Cummings became a religious leader on an international level as he was consecrated as Bishop of the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
"Dr. Darrell W. Cummings has faithfully served the community of Wheeling, West Virginia, for over three decades, providing spiritual leadership as pastor of the Bethlehem Apostolic Temple in Wheeling," Magruder said, noting that Cummings has dedicated his life to the ministry since the age of 16.
Cummings has served Bethlehem Apostolic Temple since 1990, Magruder said, noting that his commitment to the community extends "beyond the pulpit" through his community engagement and leadership serving on numerous boards and commissions throughout the city.
His impact on the community is further exemplified by his creation of the Temple Food Pantry and the ministry in the North Wheeling Youth Center, the mayor said.
"Over 100,000 people have been served - receiving food, clothing and toys, including the Christmas Toy and Food Basket Giveaway, which has touched thousands of families over the past 30 years," Magruder said. "The city of Wheeling recognizes the profound influence that Pastor Cummings has had on both the spiritual and civil fabric of our community, tirelessly working to uplift and empower those in need."
The mayor and members of Wheeling City Council proclaimed their "deepest gratitude and highest respect" to Cummings, "honoring his years of ministry, his commitment to justice, his contribution to the community, and his unwavering faith that has inspired and transformed the lives of many."
Cummings was joined by his wife, Latisha, during the presentation of the proclamation and key to the city on Tuesday night.
"Thank you so very much for doing this," Cummings said. "And a personal thanks to the mayor for coming to the installation and speaking at the installation. That meant a great deal to us."