Keith Hankins lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

David was a great teacher friend prayer warrior he encouraged me a lot he came to My home to see charles before he died of colon cancer valda david was a great Role model to me susie cunningham

The last thing my grandfather discussed with me was something that is so inter twined in our lives; that most of us forget to even offer it: Forgiveness and the need thereof. Forgiveness is something that most people: take for granted, don’t truly understand, don’t truly give, and fail horribly at. I’d like to spend some time focusing on why I say this and what true Biblical forgiveness is. Before we get into what I mean by the above, we need to define forgiveness: to stop being angry, to be reconciled with another person. We may think that’s obvious, however what is reconciliation? We’ll touch on that later; let’s first cover the items mentioned above. First, why do I say it’s taken for granted? From the time we’re born we step on people’s toes, sometimes literally others figuratively. We are prone to stepping on people, while we pursue our selfish day to day affairs. When you were young and you wanted a certain crayon, however another child had it; you were left with three options: 1. Forget the crayon and move on to something else; however this option is seldom used. In fact it would behoove us to choose this option for the sake of avoiding conflict; however there’s something about getting what we want that takes precedence. 2. Next option is taking “Our” crayon from this other child. This occurs with the more bold of us, those of us who believe we’re something and that, hey that’s our crayon right? 3. Final option is asking the other child if we can have it, upon them telling us “No”, we proceed to the next step of this option: crying to the person in authority and saying that this other child has our crayon…all the while hoping to get our way. You may laugh, but this is true and can be turned around to replace anything else in life, aside from crayons. What is the end result? Choosing either of option 2 or 3 leads us to either: hurting someone else, or being hurt that the authority didn’t give us “our” crayon. The need for reconciliation then becomes needed. Perhaps you steal the crayon and the other child cries to the teacher, typically (in Christian environments) the teacher would ask you to give the crayon back and apologize. Most of the time this is the end result, however sometimes it takes blood, sweat and tears to make it happen. In the end we say words, we may not mean. I mean, it was your crayon in the first place, and you don’t get it plus you have to apologize?? Additionally, the person on the other end of the apology may not fully grasp what is happening or may have a watchful “chip” on his shoulder to no longer trust you. Does this sound like being reconciled? Did the anger stop or was reconciliation forced upon a person? Second, we don’t truly give it. In the example above the act forgiveness was forced upon the child by the authority; all good and well the intention was to reach down and teach him something about life, however most of us even as older children and childish adults don’t truly know how to give it. How many “I’m sorry’s” have you given, and how many times have you meant it truly with “blood, sweat and tears”? Much of the time we forgive out of: habit, religiousness/piety, because others are watching, or because if we don’t it would negatively impact us down the road. In other words, we do it purely out of selfishness or our flesh. Even if it’s out of habit, the flesh is involved; habits are things of the flesh, they require little thought and absolutely no soul. The other reasons listed are strictly selfishness, even for “religious or pious reasons”, in the end we focus on appearance. Final nail on this coffin, if we truly gave forgiveness, why do we still hold grudges, thoughts, and past trespasses? Is it not because we hope to someday use them to our benefit? We’re always seeking vengeance, righteous I’m sure; but in the end what the Father says is “vengeance is mine, says YHVH.” By holding things in our heart for a potential future event, or keeping a distance between ourselves and others; we are truly showing and living our lack of forgiveness; and playing judge. There is one Judge,

David was such a wonderful man. Rick and I came to Community 15 years ago, very hurt and bruised. The passion he had to please our Savior touched us in so many ways. We never grew weary of his teaching and as much as we hate to admit it, when a visiting preacher came to Community we were disappointed because we loved hearing David so much. Sometimes we weren't sure where he was headed with his message but he managed to tie it up into a beautiful package week after week and you had no doubt he was lead by the Holy Spirit. The world has lost a wonderful man, but we rejoice knowing he is with our Lord and how much he looked forward to that day. God bless Valda, his sweet daughters and grandchildren. Continue on with your mission and hold dearly the concepts he taught so well. "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" John 13:35 Rick and Sunnye Landers

I was privileged to know Pastor David well. He had me over to his house so, so many times when I lived in Orange and we shared countless meals and prayer times together. I will never forget that he was the person who in 2008, when I was new to Community Church, identified that I had the gift of teaching and gave me opportunities to develop and express this. Though I am sad to be in Brazil and absent from Orange at this time, Pastor David’s influence will always remain with me no matter how long I live. He is one of the key people who modeled Jesus Christ for me and I can’t wait to see that big smile and receive a huge hug as he welcomes me home one day.

Pastor Berkheimer was a special man. He touched many lives in so many different ways throughout his 30+ years in Community Church and in our community. Pastor touched my life personally through many of his sermons but on one particular Sunday about ten years ago he preached on "finding your feather" in life. I want go into details but thoughout a series of events over the next couple of weeks I came to understand everything he was saying about finding your feather and it was the beginning of my spirital walk with the Lord and it brought me back to Community Church after many years and it ended up bringing my entire family back too. I always enjoyed Pastor Berkheimer talking about how much he enjoyed his coffee. Sometimes it's the little things in life and Pastor Berkheimer certainly new that. May God bless his family and may all those (like myself) that were fortunate to even know Pastor Berkheimier always remember him for the special man he was!

Pastor David was my spiritual father. During the best and worst of times, he and Pastor Melba were there standing in the fire with me and my family. His love and devotion for the Lord saturated every aspect of his life and touched and changed the lives of generations of people. His love and compassion for Pastor Melba and Valda taught me volumes about how to be a Godly mate. Words cannot express the love and admiration I have for this Godly man! My life has been forever changed because of him...He was my mentor, my friend, my source of Godly counsel, and many times, my Godly earth father. I will forever love him and his family and I will carry and share his legacy with me forever!

Pastor David blessed us tremendously since we've been at Community Church the past 20 years! He was truly a man of God, wonderful friend. "Thank you for letting us stay, David!" God bless to his family.

Pastor Burkheimer will always have a special place in our family's heart and he will be missed. What a wonderful friend and servant of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We'll see you in Heaven . Love, Ruth and John Stevens

I have so many memories of your dad. He truly had a heart for God. He also had a sense of humor. He was able to help you bring God into your everyday life. He truly was special and will be missed. Mitzi "Stevens" Wiggin

Ron and I wanted to express our deepest love to your family. We both loved growing up under the teachings and ministies of your dad and mother at First Assembly in Rosenberg. He was such a special man and will be greatly missed.

Will be dearly missed and always remembered. A great preacher and teacher.Doug Venable

John And Joyce Coratti lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Wendy Girouard lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Russell Cardwell lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

never knew pastor david but i always heard karen label talking about him...he sounded like such a good man to be around...my condolences go out to the family

Charlene Reed lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Yessica Lopez lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Gayle & Vic Arceneaux lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Mike And Laverne Eaves lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Chuck & Hollye James lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

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Leah Reeves lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Karen Lebel lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

Deepest condolences!! He is with God now, looking down on all of us and proud of the legacy he left behind. Prayers to your family!!

I will always be grateful to this wonderful Man of God. When I pioneered Logos Bible Institute in Orange in 2003, he so graciously supported our ministry. Pastor David"s wife, Valda,, took some of our courses. Pastor David was a great friend to my Father. As a teenager, he attended my Dad's Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My greatest memory was having him speak at our last graduation in 2005. Both he and my Dad shared the platform. I wept when I saw Pastor David lay hands on the graduates. My Dad, Rev. JH Meppelink went home to be with the Lord 4 yrs ago at the age of 85. I have to smile because my dad would drink in excess of 20 cups of coffee in a day. I can see the two of them sharing stories and I'm sure there is coffee in Heaven. May God bless Pastor David"s family and what a celebration to honor a great Man of God, who so unpretentiously and unselfishly invested in so many lives. I'm thankful his life touched mine. Always Amazed By God's Grace and Lovingkindness, Pastor Kathleen Meppelink-White

What a Great man David was. I aways enjoyed his delightful out look on life and his sermons always seem to hit home. I know he is living it up in heaven with the lord, but He will be missed!

Pastor Berkheimer officiated at my daughter's wedding.He was a very kind man.A very spiritual man.He touched so many lives in a very positive way and made a real difference for so many people.He loved the Lord with all his heart . And that was made evident in his endeavors to help others.He will be missed by everyone .

Beverly Smith lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

I have a very fond memory of Pastor Berkheimer. I was singing on a Christian TV show in Beaumont TX and David happened to be one of the guests that day. In addition to the two of us, another pastor was there to be interviewed. We all three were in the green room and introduced ourselves to each other. David said to the man, "Hello, my name is David Berkheimer from Community Church in Orange". The gentleman introduced himself as Reverend so-and-so and asked David how he should address him. He simply said, "Just David". Sometimes character is revealed in great gulps. But sometimes it is revealed in ways that are scarcely noticed. I noticed that day. God speed, David.

My Pastor... I did my internship under Pastor David, God used Him to play a large part in my life and forming me into the minister I am today. My family and I love him dearly...

At the time in my life when I came to the Lord, Pastor David was there and has been my Pastor for over 30 years. As My husband, Ron decided to come back to the Lord, David's teachings about our Lord is what drew Ron to Jesus! I know they are all basking in our Lord's Glory, now! Have fun in Heaven and with Jesus, David. Thanks for being real in your faith! I'm proud to have called you my Pastor! I'm praying for all of you family members!

Pastor David was just an awesome man and will truly be missed. He touched many , many lives over the years and left a wonderful living legacy. He Loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining example of how the Life of a Christian man is actually supposed to look. It was mine and my wife's honor and pleasure to not only call him pasture but friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family who he Loved and cherished so much. Pastor David is finally today in the place he prepared his whole life to be and one we will all meet at again someday and for that I am thankful. Each and everyone of us are blessed for having had Pastor in our lives and God has brought him HOME. God Bless, Bill and Jenny Stark

My family moved to Orange 25 years ago. Prior to moving, I had long made the statement that I was a Christian, but I wanted to know how to live now, and how to live life to the fullest before Jesus came or I went home to be with the Lord. Brother David taught me How to Live Life Now through his many sermons. My file cabinet is filled with tapes, cds, and sermon notes from him. I have never met a more humble man, yet full of wisdom, knowledge, and service for others. You never forget the person who turned your life around. My prayers are with his family. Martha Bush Community Church, Orange

There is so much to say about Pastor David. He was such a Godly man. It was a pleasure to serve under him for so many years. Even when you didn't agree with him he would still listen to you and be willing to work with you and either show where you were wrong or humbly accept that he was wrong. I remember many of the debates we had back in Master's Commission they make me laugh now looking back. He stepped up in many ways to be a father figure not only spiritually but also as an earthly father. He wanted to make a mark on Orange. Well I think he did more that left his mark on Orange. Look who all he has mentored and touched all over this nation. Thank you Pastor David and his family for being an example of what a true family is even with its ups and downs. I know that I will forever miss this man.

There are no words that can describe what he meant to me. He changed my life, and because of his faithfulness he has left behind a church that continues to change me daily. His light will continue for generations because of the love and knowledge he shared so freely. I love him and pray God's comfort over his family. Renae McCullough

Gods Blessings and Prayers for family members of Pastor David Berkheimer My prayers go out to the family of Pastor David Berkheimer. What a loss of Gods Generals in Texas. I just hope and pray God sees me going toe to toe with the enemy (satan) right up to my last breath just as I witnessed Pastor David with his . Pastor David was my role model and friend. He stood up for me and my family when others stood at a distance. Pastor David helped me move forward each day as he reinforced the meaning of the scripture that states ...He is my strength, my Shield, my Fortress.... Each year on my return to Honduras friends anxiously await for his sermons on CDs. His legacy just keeps on going forth spreading the gospel through not only his family, but everyone he Came in contact with. I certainly don't understand his death, but I am grateful that God had us cross paths and for the influence he had on my life. Frances Collins

my sincerest sympathies to his family for their loss, but for him, he is with Our Lord and they are Celebrating his return home!!! May God help his family and friends through this time of loss with kindness, love and the memories of joy that Pastor Berkheimer shared with each of you. Pearl Phillips Kirbyville Texas

Pastor Berkheimer….I cannot say enough good about this man. As a pastor his sole purpose in life was to lead people to salvation and to get to heaven. He gave all of himself to our church. He always tried to do what was right by God and not what was right by his own emotions. He cared more about others than he cared about himself. He never esteemed himself above others. He was always interested in taking the church to the next level. Because Pastor Berkheimer was transparent he made it easy for all of us to lay our hearts before the Lord – he was never judgmental. I honor Pastor Berkheimer today for being an awesome man of God and for leading me and my entire family in our walk with the Lord. His ministry will forever lead us on to the goal. Love you Pastor Berkheimer!! Ronnie & Debbie Rost

I grew up in the Charlemont neighborhood in Orange -- the same neighborhood where Pastor Berkheimer lived. One of the most striking memories of my childhood was seeing this gray-haired, white man running around the neighborhood with no shirt on. As a young black boy, this intrigued me. At first I didn't know what to make of it; as a young Pentecostal boy, I was particularly stunned to find out that this track athlete was not only a pastor, but a pastor of one of the most significant Spirit-filled churches in town. Over time, as I watched him run and as I grew from a boy into a man, I was able to glean several critical lessons from what I observed from the behavior of the man I later learned was Pastor David Berkheimer. I think three of those lessons are worth sharing in tribute to the life and legacy of this great man; these are lessons we should all emulate: Lesson # 1: He was running. I Corinthians 9:24-27 24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. Pastor Berkheimer realized that as believers we are all running a race. Rather than sit idly or opt out of the race, citing personal challenges, limitations, and inadequacies, Pastor David realized that he had a race to run and that God would give him both the power and the direction to run his race with patience. He wasn't ashamed to run or too good to run. He did not use the prominence of his office to exempt himself from the race, but he ran in such a way as to win the prize. As he crossed the finish line, we, along with the angels of heaven, rejoice with him as he received his prize. Lesson #2: He was running without impediments. Hebrews 12:1, "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us," He realized that not only was he required to run, but that he had to lighten his load. In the natural, he ran with just the bare minimum -- shoes and running shorts, no other weights. The spiritual corollary is that he demonstrated for us that the best way to work for the Lord in this race of life is to lay aside everything that would reduce our effectiveness and minimize our impact. Get rid of negative behaviors and thoughts that hinder our Christian witness. Avoid distractions that take away your time and attention from attending to the things of God. Lesson #3: He was panting. Psalm 42:1, "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God." Pastor David ran with a panting desperation for God. He was hungry and thirsty for all things Godly. He realized that he that thirsts after righteousness shall be filled. Pastor David was not satisfied with a mundane experience with God, but craved the supernatural. He panted for all that God had appropriated for him and his local church, including the baptism in the Holy Spirit with all of the associated demonstration of the power of God. The best way to honor the legacy of Pastor David Berkheimer is to follow his good and Godly example: Run, run without impediments, and run with a panting desperation for all that God has for you and those you are called to reach. God bless the sainted memory of his precious servant and son David Berkheimer. Bishop Paul A. Hardin Senior Pastor | Dominion Church International, Houston, Texas Vice Presiding Bishop | Dominion Assembly of Christian Churches

You always knew where Pastor David stood spiritually. He said and preached what he believed and could tell you why he believed it. His heart for missions, for people gaining knowledge of the Word, and for prayer, motivated him to move forward for God. He walked out his faith with great strength. You leave a great legacy, fond memories, and wonderful examples to follow. You always said a person should live in such a way that the preacher would not have to lie at his funeral- no one has to lie to share your life pastor. You will be missed. John and Sherry Mallory

I began attending Community Church in '83--mostly for the worship music. I remember Pastor's sermon were a lot about love and feel good stuff. But things started changing. His sermons became more passionate about God and our relationships. Pastor started growing closer and closer to who he was called to be. As he grew, we grew. And we have come so far. His life was living Christ out loud and everyday. As we built the new church building, he was one of the first ones on the scene in his t-shirt and blue jeans. He was never afraid to show that he was just a "regular guy" no different from you and me. He leaves behind a great legacy and a vision that will go on and on for generations. His vision for the coffee and God talk and the School of Supernatural Ministries was set. He shared the vision. Just as King David had a vision for the Temple and Solomon built it according to his plans, someone else will be stepping up to take Pastor's place and fulfill that vision here on earth. Can't wait to see who that will be. David Berkheimer will be missed but our memories shared will stay in our hearts and his vision will come to fruition. See you on the other side, Pastor.

He baptized me, served me communion at my wedding, & dedicated my oldest daughter. I have so many memories of my pastor. My life will forever be changed for the better. I have no doubt he heard: Well done my good and faithful servant.

I know he was a "bit" forgetful with names, but he ALWAYS remembered mine. I'm tearful at his loss but so excited that he has earned his heavenly reward. God bless your sweet German heart. Praying for peace and comfort for those of us who remain on this earth.

My mother, me and my sisters been going to community church since I was 10 and I never met a more loving and someone so on fire for god until I met pastor david Berkheimer. When my mother died he was their for me and family I been so blessed by him.

KAREN WEBB lit a candle in memory of David Berkheimer

I loved my years at Community Church. Pastor David was an awesome pastor. I will never forget going to early morning prayer and putting on the armor of God at the end of each prayer time. He & Sister Melba were wonderful role models. I deeply admired them. They will always have a special place in my heart. ~Kim Frazier-Ray

I was fortunate to sit under his teaching for many years. We were also neighbors. I remember seeing him run and run and run throughout the neighborhood. We would often chat during his cool down and he was just "real". Nothing fake - always sincere. It's a comfort to know that he has received the ultimate healing and is in the glory he always spoke of! Thank you Brother Dave for your service and commitment in sharing God's love, hope, and direction.

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PASTOR DAVID CAME INTO MY LIFE 6 YEARS AGO AND HE HAS GIVE ME THE GIND LINES TO HAVE A GOOD GOOD LIFE AND NOW TODAY IM HAPPILY MARRIED TO A GOOD MAN...BECAUSE PASTOR DAVID HAD TOLD ME 3 THINGS 1) A MAN THAT HAS GOD IN HIS LIFE. 2) DOSE HE GO TO CHURCH. 3)IF THEY READ THE BIBLE. PASTOR DAVID WAS LIKE A FATHER THAT I ALWAYS WANTED AND WILL ALWAYS BE MY DAD...I LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH AND YOU BE DEEPLY MISS MY FATHER!!! KAREN WEBB

He was my pastor growing up. What I treasure the most about him was godly humility; he could laugh at his own mistakes without pride getting in the way, and live the grace of God that overcomes our stumbles and failures and calls us to live His life.

David was a great man of God who was an inspiration to many, and my pastor for thirteen years. I am confident that the many who have gone on before him from Community Church are rejoicing with him at the throne.

David was a treasure to our family. He shared his faith and love liberally to everyone. He will be greatly missed here on earth, but his legacy will continue through the many lives he touched. Even in his death, he challenges me to serve God more deeply. Cynthia McBride