Born in Brooklyn New York to the proud parents Bishop Ernest E. Trueblood Sr. and Felipa Trueblood. It was through his parents’ guidance and teaching that Reverend Trueblood Jr. found it necessary for salvation in his life. Ernest, as he prefers to be called, accepted Jesus into his life at an early age. Ministry for Ernest started with singing at the tender age of six. He accompanied his Dad to most evangelistic services. At the age of 11, Ernest was Sunday School Secretary and Primary Teacher for his Dad’s church. Also, Ernest began preaching at the same age. Ernest continued to grow in the blessedness of the Lord.
At age 20, he knew the Lord had called him for a special work. In May of 1974 he received a Diploma from Elim Bible Institute in Pastoral Theology and Christian Education and a Teacher’s Diploma from the Evangelical Teachers Training Association. In August 1974, Ernest married his lovely wife and best friend Norma. They have two children and six grandchildren.
After being ordained in 1975, Ernest continued alongside his Dad as Assistant Pastor at International Revival Tabernacle of Brooklyn, New York. His ministerial responsibilities included Minister of Music, Dean and Teacher of Redeemer Bible Institute, and Musical Director of the gospel group, “The Christian People.” In 1982 Ernest graduated from Montefiore School of Radiological Technology with honors and receiving a diploma. At the close of 1982, Ernest, Norma, and family ventured to Ocala, Florida. There he worked as Associate Pastor for an Assembly of God Church.
In January 1986, Ernest, Norma, and family moved to this wonderful state of New Jersey. The next year, he graduated from York Bible College and Theological Seminary with a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity. He was also the Valedictorian for his class. Ernest furthered his education with York Christian College and Theological Seminary obtaining a Masters of Science Degree in Church Administration. In May, 2010, He received a doctor of divinity degree from York Christian College and Divinity School.
At present, Ernest is the Senior Pastor of the International Revival Tabernacle of Burlington County. He is also Bishop of the Council of Churches of the International Revival Tabernacle Ministries, Inc., Browns Mills New Jersey. He is also a member of the college of Bishops of the York Christian College and Divinity School. He is also a minister of the Open Bible Churches organization. Other ministerial and community involvement includes registered Chaplain for the state of New Jersey, and a chaplain for the police department of Pemberton Township, New Jersey. He faithfully shares in this ministry with his beloved wife Pastor Norma, who is also a certified minister of Open Bible Churches.
Bishop Trueblood is committed to fulfill the call of God upon his life no matter what. Jesus Christ so perfectly commands it, “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo I am with you always, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20). What has been experienced and acquired could only mean that God’s plan is to use him. Therefore, God’s vision for Bishop Trueblood always has and will continue to be to teach and preach the Word.
Special words from Bishop Trueblood, Jr.:
Sincere thanks: First, to the Almighty God and His anointing power upon my life-to whom I owe all. Secondly, to my Dad and Mom for proper nurturing and training ~”I remember when.” Thirdly, to my lovely wife, Pastor Norma for sticking by my side especially during the tough times and also for her prayers and encouragement (matched for the ministry of God). Fourthly, I thank my children for their patience and encouragement. Last but not least, my thanks go out to the International Revival Tabernacle of Burlington County elders, ministers, department leaders, members, and friends for their devoted dedication to this God given work. And a special thanks to my wife Norma who faithfully encourages me onward in this work of the Lord! “To God I give all the Glory!”
Norma I. Trueblood was born and raised in New York City. She has been happily married for forty-six years to her husband, Bishop Dr. Ernest E. Trueblood, Jr. They both are blessed with a son and daughter, and six grandchildren. In 1986 they moved to the wonderful area of Browns Mills, NJ.
While juggling her time between recently retiring from full time work as the Director of the Mount Laurel Campus site of Burlington County College, and Executive pastor alongside her husband, she manages to partner with local churches during the holidays to help supply food baskets to the community in need. As a role model she demonstrates her commitment and strength to the women of this community by also co-chairing for Women of Excellence, Pemberton Township, New Jersey. Her dedication to the workforce, marriage, family, and ministry shows this commitment to the bitter end.
Norma currently holds a Bachelors’ degree in education from the Southern Illinois University. Her achievements included are: 2010 – she was inducted into The National Council of Community Colleges for Hispanic Leaders; 2011- she was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame at Burlington County College; 2009 – she received Certificate of “Special Senate Recognition” from the United States, in recognition of her outstanding and invaluable service to the community. 2009 – received from the State of New Jersey “The Senate Resolution Award”; 2009 – also received from the State of New Jersey, “Senate and General Assembly Resolution Award”; 2009 – also received from The New Jersey State General Assembly, “Citation Award for community Action to the “Servicios Latinos” ; 2009 – she also received the “Latinos making a difference Award”, in recognition for taking steps to overcome Language Barriers when providing services to the community – Servicios Latinos de Burlington County. Lastly, in 2008, Norma was a recipient of the Woman of Inspiration and Distinction Award at Burlington County College. In the year of 2011 Norma was ordained as pastor by the York Christian College and Divinity School and the International Revival Tabernacle of Burlington County, Inc. She is also a certified minister under the ministry of the Open Bible Churches.
In 2012 Norma was elected in office for council of Pemberton Township serving a four year term. In 2016 she was elected for a second four year term as a council member of Pemberton Township.
Norma was selected to co-author a chapter in the book “Voices of the 21st Century, which was released December, 2013.
Although, she has received these awards of recognition, her highest accomplishment she says, “Is to humbly and joyfully be serving in the community.” To God, I give all the glory!
Sunday:
12:00 P.M. – Sunday Worship Service
Tuesday:
7:00 P.M. – Prayer Meeting
Wednesday:
7:30 P.M. – Bible Study
201 Choctaw Drive
Browns Mills, NJ 08015