Marvin E. Gorman Dies

Former Executive Presbyter and Assemblies of God minister Marvin E. Gorman, who began his ministry career at the age of 16, passed away on January 4. He was 83. 

Gorman and his wife of 61 years, Virginia, pastored for more than 37 years. The couple pastored AG churches in Arkansas and Louisiana. In 1958 he was elected Louisiana District youth director. In 1965, Gorman was elected as the Louisiana District assistant superintendent and began pastoring First Assembly of God in New Orleans. 

Starting out with about 100 people at First Assembly, the Gormans saw the church grow to more than 6,000 members in their 21 years of ministry at the church. The couple also began a radio and television ministry during that time, with programs broadcast daily throughout the United States and overseas. 

In addition to leading First Assembly in growth, Gorman was instrumental in making the church a top missions-giving church, was a powerful advocate for the Louisiana Teen Challenge, and the church’s Bible Quiz team became national champions in 1983. Gorman, a prolific writer and gifted communicator, also conducted an annual and highly regarded pastors school attended by as many as 1,500 ministers from throughout the country and around the world. 

Gorman was a member of the General Council’s Spiritual Life Committee and was elected as an Executive Presbyter in 1981. Following his election to this vital governing group, Gorman stated: "I had no religious background, and it was the most awesome feeling in my life the first time I went before the executive brethren for credentials. To be received by them, and treated as I was, gave me courage, confidence, and assurance to go on. That’s what the Assemblies of God fellowship has done for me over the years.” 

Two years later, Gorman was the Saturday-evening featured speaker at the 40^th General Council in Anaheim, California, sharing a messaged titled, “Preach the Cleansing Word.”

In that message he stated, “Jesus Christ loves you. He died for you. And there is no sin, no bondage, no hurt, no bruise that is so deep He cannot rescue you and bring healing, comfort, and strength to you.” 

In 1985, Gorman established Foundation for Human Helps in an effort to see the lost around the world come to Christ. Over the years, Foundation for Human Helps has provided financial assistance in the construction of orphanages, churches, and Bible schools. 

Following their pastoral ministry, the Gormans traveled throughout the United States and around the world, conducting leadership conferences. With a heart for mission, he was actively involved in numerous missions projects, and provided leadership training for national pastors and leaders. 

“There are many people in the Kingdom today because of Marvin Gorman's ministry,” says AG General Superintendent George O. Wood. “He had a great love for the Lord and for people.” 

Marvin E. Gorman’s parents, Marvin and Dorothy Gorman, and his brother, Terry, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; their children Randy Gorman (Janice), Mark Gorman (Gina), and Beverly Gorman Bilbo (Garland); his brothers and sisters Joe Gorman, George Gorman, Wanda Williams, and Dottie Smith; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 10, at Church of Abundant Life, 2301 Par 3 Drive, Harvey, Louisiana. Visitation will be from 10 to 12 with a service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Foundation for Human Helps, 5000 West Esplanade Ave, Suite 195, Metairie, LA 70006.

AG News