In addition to eight years of extensive Bible Institute work, Pastor Kirkland continued to equip himself to do God's work through courses of study in Psychology at Hillsborough Community College, Counseling in Christian Education and Death and Dying at Florida Beacon College.
Many members are part of the church's weekly Bible class and take great pride in attending the Quarterly Bible Institutes where they have received a broader understanding and greater knowledge in rightly dividing the Word of Truth.
He has and continues to render community services by hosting public forums with elected officials of the City of Tampa, in additional to conducting revival services throughout the Tampa area and in neighboring counties. He has served as Chairman of the Community Awareness Advisory Committee for the City of Tampa.
Recognized for his sincere leadership through his teaching, love and dedicated concern for humanity in service for mankind by numerous community organizations, he received the Martin Luther King Commemorative Breakfast Award, 1986; Martin Luther King Religious Award, 1988; and Outstanding Teacher and Leadership Award; Certificate of Appreciation, City of Tampa Department of Public and Community Affairs; Certificate of Appreciation, Silent Ambassadors, Sunday School and Certificate of Appreciation - Counselor of Better Education. He received an award from Jack and Jill of America, Inc., for outstanding community service in 1989. He was awarded a proclamation by the Board of County Commissioners of Hillsborough County in 1993.
