Posted: June 30th, 2023
Remembering Joseph Bulgin
sellis@adventistontario.org
The passing of Pastor Joseph Bulgin on June 23 has left a profound impact on those who knew and loved him. As his family prepares for his funeral on Monday, July 10, tributes continue to pour in, testifying to the legacy he left behind.
Paulette Massey, a former member who had known Pastor Bulgin for 21 years, describes him in one word: "Godly." She recalls "He exuded the character of a man who knew Jesus. He was always available and very humble. He taught me how to give Bible studies, and to this day, I'm still active in sharing the Word."
Sis Hutchenson, the communication director for Ajax Church, which was Pastor Bulgin's last placement, echoes similar sentiments. She shares, "[Pastor Bulgin] made his home available to present witnessing seminars to the membership and even used his pool for baptisms. He was always available by phone and was a great listener. He had an uncanny ability to see the good in everyone."
Reflecting on his father's extensive ministry, Jason Bulgin, himself a pastor at Capitol City SDA Church in Sacramento California, emphasizes his father's heart for evangelism. "Even before he became a pastor while he studied at Northern Caribbean University, he was actively preaching in revival series and doing Bible work."
Since joining the Ontario Conference in 1990, Pastor Bulgin served in various churches. He played a pivotal role in starting Mount Olive Church and also served as an associate at Kingsview Village, Mississauga, Meadowvale, Hamilton East, and Lincoln Pioneer churches. Later, he took on senior pastor roles at Philadelphia, Shiloh, Ruth, and finally, Ajax. Pastor Bulgin was a church builder both in church structure and growing church memberships through baptisms.
In an interview on discipleship and church growth by Pastor Jakov Bibulovic, President of the Ontario Conference, Pastor he noted that Bulgin humbly attributed the success of his church to the Lord and expressed his gratitude to his church leadership team, members, and especially the elders.
Jason reflects on his father's role as a dad, saying, "He always made time for us. For example, even after a busy Sabbath, he would be present at my basketball games, cheering me on. He was there for all of us." Pastor Bulgin leaves behind three children, Jason and Kimberly, both pastors and Lauri-Ann, along with cherished grandchildren.
As we celebrate the life of Pastor Joseph Bulgin, his legacy of faith, humility, and dedication to building God's kingdom continues to inspire us all.