Bishop Norman Wagner, the former world leader of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World and pastor of Mount Calvary pentecostal church in Youngstown Ohio died on Saturday (Jan 30) at the age of 68.
Bishop Wagner was well known in the Pentecostal world and was a regular visitor to Britain in order to fulfil his role as head of the European Council of Nations.
Wagner studied for a degrees and masters degree in Theology before taking up an appointment as pastor of Mount Calvary in 1971. He served as its pastor for over 38 years. During that time he authored several books, opened a complex for senior citizens, opened a school and launched a TV and gospel choir ministry which brought him national recognition.
He was a guest at the White House on several occasions, including a 1982 luncheon at which President Ronald Reagan recognized 100 “Outstanding Black Clergymen in America.”
In 1976, The Vindicator named him one of the 10 most progressive pastors in the city. He leaves his wife, Dr. Rita Helen; two daughters and a granddaughter.
Mayor Jay Williams, who attends Mount Calvary, said Bishop Wagner was charismatic, committed and a man of intelligence and integrity. He was committed in his service to God and serving others, and you couldn’t know him without coming away with a desire to serve others, the mayor said.
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