ORDER OF SERVICE
FRIDAY,
MARCH 14th
Organ Prelude.............................................................................................A medley of Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs
*The Great Processional..........................................................................“All Hail The Power of Jesus Name”
The Cross Bearer
The Visiting Prelates
The Eulogist
The Officiants
The Samuel & Blackman Family
The Necrology & Removal of Epispal Insignia..................................Bishop Shawn R. Mason II
The Sealing of the Bier
*The Prayer of Comfort.............................................................................Elder Inacent Saunders
Hymn of Victory...........................................................................................“My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less”
Praise & Worship
A Lesson From The Old Testament Reading......................................Jared Gibson
Lector: The Word of the Lord
Congregation: Thanks be to God
A Reading From The Epistles ..................................................................Shakema Cyrus
Lector: The Word of the Lord
Congregation: Thanks be to God
*The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ | John 5:24-27.............Malikia & Paityn Samuel
Lector: This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Congregation: Praise to you, Lord Christ
Musical Tribute..............................................................................................Kim Walker
“The Lord’s Prayer”
Tributes ...........................................................................................................Brownsville Community Culinary Center
Assembly Member, Latrice Walker
The God Squad
Midnight Cry
Resolutions and Acknowledgements..................................................Pastor Ruth Cesar & Evangelist Wendy Haynes
Ministry of Music..........................................................................................The NRS Memorial Choir
“Your Glory”
Ecumenical Remarks..................................................................................Bishop Courtney Bradley
Apostle Peter Bonadie
Apostle Annette Lazarus-Rose
Apostle Peter Barnes
Family Tributes.............................................................................................The Samuel Family
London Samuel
Introduction of the Eulogist.....................................................................The Most Reverend Nathan Culver
Sermonic Solo................................................................................................Monet Ulerio & The NRS Memorial Choir
“Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
The Eulogy
The Most Reverend Robert Rochford, Sr.
Presiding Prelate, Dunamis Convenant Connection
Benediction
Recessional ...................................................................................................The NRS Memorial Choir
“Total Praise”
"IN BROWNSVILLE AS IT IS IN HEAVEN"
-NRS
son, brother, husband, father, pastor, shepherd, leader, mentor, friend
son, brother, husband, father, pastor, shepherd, leader, mentor, friend
SERVANT . HUSBAND . FATHER . BROTHER . LEADER . MENTOR . FRIEND.
BISHOP NELVERN RAFFIQUE OMOWALE NELSON SAMUEL—also lovingly known as “Nel” was a faithful servant of God who lived a life of faith, passion, and purpose, dedicating over 30 years to ministry, always striving to uplift and inspire those he encountered. His passion for people and connection was evident through every stage of his life. He had a way of bringing people together, a gift that would later define his ministry and community work.
From the very beginning, Nelvern was set apart. Born in Anguilla on February 20th, 1980. His parents describe him as a studious, no-nonsense, obedient, and loving child. Even as a little boy, he had a heart for people— always observing, always seeking to understand, and always ready to serve.
By the age of two, his keen sense of observation was already shaping his spirit. Whenever his father sat in his chair little Nelvern would instinctively fetch his dad’s Bible, knowing it was time for devotion. That simple act reflected a servant’s heart, one that would only increase with time and come to define his life.
A LIFE OF LEADERSHIP & INTEGRITY
Bishop Nelvern’s ministry began as a youth pastor, but his calling led him to senior pastorship at Love City Church and ultimately to his affirmation and installation as an Apostle and Bishop in the Lord’s Church. His heart knew no bounds—whether speaking with politicians, a passerby on the street, or playing with little children, he made no distinction in his love for people. He saw every person as God’s creation, worthy of kindness and encouragement. He spoke life into others, covered them in prayer, and pleaded the blood of Jesus over those in need. He was a beacon of hope, a counselor, and a friend, always showing up when it mattered most.
Bishop Nelvern was an esteemed leader whose life exemplified “embracing both/and” (the title of a sermon he once preached), living in harmony with the values he so passionately shared. He demonstrated that faith is not confined to Sunday mornings but is meant to be lived out in every aspect of life—in the church, the marketplace, and beyond.
A visionary leader, Bishop Nelvern’s heart for service extended deeply into the community. He served as President of the 73rd Precinct God Squad and was a board member at Brownsville Community Culinary Center (BCCC). His dedication to justice and rehabilitation led him to work with the Brownsville Community Justice Center (BCJC). His advocacy for economic growth was reflected in his involvement with the Downtown Brooklyn Neighborhood Alliance (DBNA) and Central Brooklyn Economic Development. His passion for mentorship and outreach was reflected in his work with Destiny Helpers, the Fashion Foundation, Clayton Order of Progress, and Friends of Hilltop Playground.
Bishop Nelvern also dedicated time to public service, working for several years at the New York City Department of Buildings and the New York City Department of Sanitation, carrying out his duties with diligence and humility up until his final breath. Whether in the church, on the streets, or in the workplace, he exemplified what it meant to be a true servant of God. His purpose and mission remained the same, to serve, to love, and to inspire.
A LIFE OF JOY & PASSION
Bishop Nel lived his life with passion and an infectious joy that left a mark on everyone he encountered. He had a love for basketball and football, not just as a spectator but as someone who valued discipline and camaraderie. His sense of style was impeccable, with a sharp eye for fashion and a collection of fragrances that matched his bold presence. He found beauty behind the lens, capturing moments through photography. He loved kung fu movies, so much so that he once dreamt he was in one, jumped out of his sleep, and delivered a flawless fly kick that startled his then pregnant wife.
Nel was funny, with a larger-than-life personality, and he was deeply caring. He had an extraordinary ability to see the best in people, even when they couldn’t see it in themselves. He challenged those around him to dream beyond their potential, to strive for more, and to believe in the greatness within them. His laughter was contagious, his warmth unmistakable, and his steadfast faith in others a gift that makes him truly unforgettable.
A DEVOTED FAMILY MAN
Bishop Nelvern was deeply devoted to his family, and at the heart of that devotion was his wife, Renee Samuel. Their love story began at church, and through his persistence, their unbreakable bond grew. Renee describes him as a loving, loyal, godly, caring, and passionate, a man who loved deeply and unconditionally. He was her safe place, her covering, her home.
To his beloved daughter, London, he was more than a father—he was "Papa Lion," and she was his "Baby Mouse." Their bond was one of laughter, joy, and love, filled with playful games of hide and seek, soaring in his arms as he tossed her into the air, and hearing his constant reminder: "You are a Samuel, and Samuels always do their best."
Nelvern is survived by his wife Renee Samuel, his daughter London Samuel; his parents, Nelson and Eliza Samuel; his brothers Cliff (Gail), Vernel (Shaneek),and Rohan Samuel; his sisters Ayana and Monique Samuel; his father in love Michael Blackman, siblings in love Joey (Jizira), Cassandra, and Randy (Tamika); his nieces and nephews; his extended family and friends; and his respected Love City Church family. He is now reunited in eternity with his beloved brother, Alverne or “Fat Boy” as Nel called him, who preceded him in passing. Their bond in life was special, and now they rejoice together in the presence of the Lord.
Bishop Nelvern would want to be remembered as a humble servant of God, whose life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and resolute commitment to Christ. His life’s mission can be encapsulated in the words of Ephesians 5:1-2: “Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave
himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
Bishop Nelvern’s life was an embodiment of these words. He didn’t just talk about love; he lived it out, in every interaction, in every role he played. He made his presence felt— not through grand gestures, but through consistent action, genuine affection, and a heart open to everyone he encountered. Nel has left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of all who knew him and loved him.
Though his earthly journey has ended, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he mentored, in the church he built, in the lives he changed, and in the love he so freely gave.
WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT. YOUR LEGACY LIVES ON,
SHINING BRIGHTLY IN THE LIVES OF THOSE WHO CARRY YOUR MEMORY
AND TEACHINGS FORWARD.
You were loving, loyal, Godly, caring, and passionate—a man who loved deeply and unconditionally. But beyond all of that, you were my safe place, my covering, my home. Your presence was a shield, a reflection of the faith that anchored our marriage. You were by far the smartest person I knew. Your wisdom was vast, your heart even greater, and through every season of our journey, you remained my anchor, my joy, and my greatest love.
Though you were outgoing and deeply involved in the world around you, our life together was beautifully private—a sanctuary built on love and trust. Through both words and actions, I knew I was valued. The slow dancing in the kitchen, the inside jokes, the quiet comfort of just being together—those are the moments I will cherish forever.
From the moment London was born, you were overjoyed to be her father. I will never forget the look on your face when you first held our daughter, the joy and pride in your eyes. You were firm but completely captivated by her, always balancing discipline with an undeniable softness. You poured knowledge into her every chance you got, nurturing her love for learning with patience, wisdom, and endless conversations.
You met your match in her sharp mind—she was the only one who could truly challenge you in a debate. Most people gave up, but not her. More than anything, you wanted her to be strong. You even started teaching her how to physically defend herself. Every lesson, every embrace, every word of encouragement was your way of preparing her for the world, all while making sure she always knew how deeply she was loved.
You weren’t just my husband and London’s father. You were a once-in-a-lifetime kind of friend. You saw people when no one else did, stood guard over their hearts, and made them feel safe in a world that could be cruel and unkind. You carried burdens without complaint, gave grace without hesitation, and loved without limits. To those privileged enough to know you intimately you were a safe place where burdens could be laid down without fear of judgment.
You never kept score—you just showed up in love, always. You were grace in human form, a living testament to the love of Christ. If I could tell you one last thing, I would say: I love you. I have your back. You are safe.
Rest in glory, my love. You have finished the race, and you have kept the faith.Your influence transcends time, and your legacy is woven into the fabric of every person you impacted. Your earthly work is done, but your impact is eternal.
You are now resting in the arms of the One you served so faithfully.
NRS GALLERY
A GLIMPSE AT A LIFE WELL LIVED
SEVENTH & LANE is proud to honor the life and legacy of our client and friend, Bishop Nelvern R. Samuel. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the Love City Church.
This digital program will be accessible until 3/29