Pastor Cedric Oliver (photo credit: Embassies of Christ website)
The Sunday, January 22nd post on the Facebook page of Embassies of Christ Kingdom Ministries announced the passing of its co-pastor Dr. Cedric Oliver.
The church was founded in 1990 by Pastor Oliver and his wife Joyce Oliver.
Embassies of Christ grew from its 12 members in 1990 to become, today, one of the largest church congregations in Lake County.
In 2006, the church moved from its home on west Ridge Road to a newly constructed worship center on 42nd & Cleveland seating 1,500 with office space, classrooms and a gymnasium.
Along with spreading the Gospel, the church’s growth has been propelled by its mission to provide aid and opportunities for the citizens of the greater Gary area.
The church has formed subsidiaries that provide for Christian education, senior housing, economic development and job training.
Pastor Cedric Oliver was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. After graduating from Lew Wallace High School, he obtained a bachelors degree in Industrial Management from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.
Pastor Oliver worked for Inland Steel for over 19 years, going from laborer to manager, until he was called to the ministry fulltime. During his time at Inland Steel, he earned an MBA from the University of Chicago.
Gary Mayor Jerome Prince said he was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pastor Oliver.
“Dr. Oliver was more than just a pastor; he was a leader and a true visionary who will be truly missed. As a result of his numerous contributions, Pastor Oliver had a tremendous impact on the social and business fabric of Gary and surrounding areas,” Mayor Prince said.
“Through his vision and pastoral leadership of EOC ministries, Pastor Oliver transformed unproductive areas of the City into spiritually enhancing, aesthetically pleasing developments.”
Prince added, “From pastoring a church that has been a staple in the community for many years to the establishment of a school that has nurtured and educated hundreds of children, his presence was deeply felt.”
Celebration of Life for Dr. Cedric Oliver begins Friday, February 3 with a Lying in State from 11am until 8pm; the family hour is 7-8pm. The celebration continues on Saturday, February 4 with a morning visitation from 9-11am, followed by a celebration service at 11am.
All services will be held at Embassies of Christ, 4285 Taft, Gary.
