"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love
His appearing." – II Timothy 4:7–8

Another Christian soldier went to claim his crown of righteousness when Reverend Manuel Lewis Land departed this life on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Reverend Manuel Lewis Land was born on August 27, 1953, to the late Lewis and Ardecia Samuel Land. He was the fourth of five children. Reverend Land attended J.H. Row Elementary School and graduated from Jasper High School, Class of 1971.

The psalmist said, "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path." Reverend Land did this from an early age. He was baptized at Greater New Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Harvey Peacock during his youth. Later in life, he served as an usher and choir member and attended Sunday School and BTU. Under the pastorage of Reverend Immanuel Dent, he served as President of the Laymen League. Reverend Land continued his service under Reverend Kenneth O'Lyons. He remained a faithful member of Greater New Bethel Baptist Church until he answered the call to pastor Bell Chapel Baptist Church in Saint Augustine, Texas.

After his ordination, he became the lead pastor at Bell Chapel and served there for fifteen years. He was later called to the pastorship of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Kirbyville, Texas. He faithfully officiated at New Hope for more than 30 years, until his death. He was actively involved in the Youth Ministry and took great care of God's house, always making the business of God his first priority.

Like Nehemiah in Chapter 3, he felt called to rebuild the church after one disaster following another. When the structure was no longer habitable, he was reminded of Nehemiah 4:6: "The people had a mind to work." Through trials and tribulations, setbacks and disappointments, the new church was built because Reverend Land believed and trusted God to deliver His people. A beautiful structure was erected on Highway 96 where one could worship God in the beauty of holiness. Reverend Land's efforts, guided by God and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, were successfully accomplished.

But he was not alone. He had his beautiful wife, Sister Effie Seale Land. Reverend Land and Sister Effie began dating in their high school years, and their love story continued into marriage. This union was celebrated last year as they marked fifty years of love, happiness, perseverance, and devotion, renewing their vows in unity. Pastor Land and Sister Land were a devoted husband-and-wife team blessed with a loving and dedicated family, including their daughter, DeAngela, and their son, James. He is also survived by one brother, Deacon Rodney Land; sisters Cecilia Wright and Addie Hartfield; along with other cherished family members.

He pursued Christian education beginning at Greater New Bethel Baptist Church through Sunday School and BTU Youth Ministry. His passion for Christian education led him to attend District, State, and National Congresses of Christian Education, where he received certification as a Baptist teacher of Christian Education. He was a devoted member of the Long Star District Missionary Association and served as Vice Moderator under Moderator Kenneth O. Lyons. He later became Zone President and was elevated by Moderator Hadnot to serve as President of the Congress of Christian Education.

Reverend Land never met a stranger and faithfully shared the Word of God with everyone he encountered. Whether on the street, at the park while walking, or simply sitting and talking, he loved speaking about God and he loved people. He was humorous, yet serious in his faith and calling. He loved the color blue — inspired by the Dallas Cowboys uniform — and Blue Bell ice cream.

The life allotted to Reverend Land passed through all phases and experiences and was fulfilled in purpose and responsibility.