Many of us can think of heroes we’ve read about in the Bible, like Moses, Ruth, Deborah, and David, whose stories have changed our lives. As Black History Month begins, we also remember those Black leaders in American history whose contributions and sacrifices have shaped our nation, such as Rosa Parks, John Lewis, Maya Angelou, Harriet Tubman, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

These larger-than-life figures of faith and history exhibit the characteristics we seek in a hero. Their heroic traits include faithfulness, moral integrity, courage, self-sacrifice, determination, inspiration, and helpfulness.

Reflecting on my friendship with Rev. Julius Del Pino, my hero, I realize we first met in June 1998 when we came to the Detroit Annual Conference. Both of us came to Michigan from different states. His first appointment was to Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Detroit, and I was appointed to Oak Park United Methodist Church in Flint.

I got to know Julius through the United Methodist Black Clergy of Michigan organization, where he served as president, and I was secretary. He always served with grace and dignity as he worked with the various leaders of the Black Clergy.

I am amazed at his accomplishments. He has served on the faculty of Yale Divinity School, lectured widely, written many articles, and cowritten his most recent book, Unmasking Racism: Coloring with Love in the Church, Community, and Academy. This book, published by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, was released in 2023.

Over the years, I have watched Rev. Del Pino remain faithful to his call to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Many clergy of color are assigned to cross-racial, cross-cultural appointments in the Michigan Conference. Julius has always served cross-racial, cross-cultural appointments since arriving here.

Despite the racism he has faced over the years, he has remained courageous as he addresses social injustices that affect our churches and communities. He inspires his congregations by teaching and preaching on difficult topics, encouraging them to look beyond themselves and think about what Jesus would do.

Rev. Del Pino exhibits godly integrity. He understands his morals and values and explains them to others in loving ways that help people see a different perspective. Julius has a gentle spirit and is determined to make a difference in this world. In the lectures given in the Native American Course of Study, which seeks to prepare students to work cross-culturally among Native American people, he invited participants to explore their theology and examine others.

What I appreciate most about Rev. Del Pino is that he is a good listener, full of wisdom, and always willing to share his insight with others. To this day, Julius remains an active learner, reading many books and articles that challenge him to grow in faith and knowledge.

Presently, Rev. Del Pino is a retired elder serving as part-time pastor at Oxford United Methodist Church. He was pastoring there when the mass shooting occurred at Oxford High School in 2021. Julius provided a pastoral presence to the people suffering after that tragedy. He offered prayer, support, and a listening ear to the Oxford community, which made a difference. As that community continues to heal, Pastor Julius walks with them.

Rev. Dr. Julius Del Pino is a difference-maker. He is my hero. I thank God for his life and ministry.