The Tucson Human Relations Commission hosted a special commemoration for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., entitled “Unity in Tolerance.” The keynote speaker at the Feb. 12 event, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, lauded the work of the commission and praised those who were chosen for special recognition.

Amanda Phillips, a member of the Tucson Commission for Race Relations, presented an award to Pastor Israel Bamidele Olaore, stating that he is “an embodiment of rich, cultural heritage.”

“The fabric of his life is woven with threads from Ghana where he was born, to Nigeria where he spent his adult years, then to Europe and the United States where he has ministered for the past 10 years,” Phillips said in her tribute. “He is honest, unassuming and trusting,” she continued. “He does not judge by the outward appearance, but aims for the soul.”

Phillips quoted tributes she had gathered from people who have attended the Tucson Sharon Adventist Church where Olaore ministers, including those of a Jewish couple, a Hispanic couple, a young caucasian woman, an African-American physician, and a Native-American worshipper who affirmed, “Sharon Church is one of the most diverse churches I have ever been to in my whole life. I feel very comfortable worshipping there and the people are very welcoming and friendly. It so different from other churches I have been to.”

“I do not see myself as doing anything," Olaore said. "I only stand to receive this award on behalf of my Lord Jesus Christ. He is the one who has accomplished great things in uniting the people He has brought under my sphere of influence.”