On Sunday, October 19th, 2025, the family of New Unity Baptist Church gathered in radiant joy to celebrate the 74th birthday of their beloved pastor-servant-leader, Rev. Johnny N. Golden, Sr. — a man whose ministry, heart, and humor have blessed generations.

It was an afternoon of love, laughter, and legacy, a living portrait of the sacred bond between shepherd and flock.

The dinner was a culinary triumph — Maryland’s famous crab cakes, New York strip steak, Atlantic salmon, or chicken parmigiana, served alongside fresh garden salad, baked potato, verdant green beans, and soft drinks. The evening’s coordination was masterfully led by Deacons C. Vanessa Thomas and Sister Sharlene Barnes, Pastor Golden’s sisters, with stellar assistance from Deacon Tamera Randolph and Deacon Marion Highe.

Among the radiant crowd were his gracious companion and First Lady, Rev. Wanda Golden; their daughter Keenya, son-in-law Rob, and their exuberant grandson Langston — each glowing with pride and joy. Joining them were Pastor Golden’s siblings, Brother B. Wesley Harris and Sister Sarah Johnson, whose presence made the celebration all the more special.

A special salute went out to longtime friends and ministry partners Rev. Donald and Doris Gaskins-Hamilton, and to Sis. Candice Chesley, the DJ and technical maestro whose playlist kept the Spirit—and the dance floor—alive.

Through the generosity of Brother and Sister Cornelious and Sarah Williams, several guests were lovingly sponsored to attend the banquet, a gesture of unity that perfectly reflected the heart of New Unity Nation.

The celebration was beautifully captured by Deacon John R. Kearney, whose photographs will tell this story for years to come.

Throughout the evening, tributes poured in from around the room, including from Deacon Peggy J. Butler, Minister Catherine M. Giles, and beloved son of the ministry Elder Reginald W. Patterson and his wife Sharrie, whose love and laughter filled the room.

In one touching moment, Cousin Lucretia Meyers and her husband Michael shared how, years ago, they received special permission from Pastor Golden’s late mother, Mrs. Rosa B. Porter, to affectionately call him Jonathan—meaning “God’s beloved.”

The honoree, in gleaming gold shoes that matched his golden spirit, closed the evening by answering audience questions, sharing reflections on some of his favorite books, and dancing out the door to the sounds of Stevie Wonder’s “I Wish” and other soulful classics.

It was, indeed, a night to remember—celebrating a pastor, teacher, and visionary whose life continues to embody the mission of New Unity Baptist Church:

“The Equipping Ministry—Empowering the People of God for the Work of the Kingdom.”

📸 Photos from the celebration to follow.