Several years ago, the Bahamas gave special recognition to him for his efforts in helping the island nation when it was hit especially hard by a hurricane.

These are just a few examples of the kind of man the bishop is. And it is because of his leadership and love for his fellow human beings that he is being honored.

"We want to honor him on this special milestone of his 90th birthday," said Linda M. Swift, the coordinator of the gala. "He is such a wise and humble man. ... He is almost embarrassed when we openly praise him for his good works."

Richardson is married to the former Betty Forbes. His two sons followed him into the ministry. His older son the Rev. Dr. Walter T. Richardson is pastor emeritus at Sweet Home Missionary Baptist church in Perrine , who was appointed this year to head the Miami-Dade Community Relations Boards, and his younger son Elder Alfred J. Richardson, is a pastor in Georgia.

Tickets to the gala are $15 each and if you would like to attend, you must make your reservations by Dec. 30, by calling Swift at 786-333-4211.

After-School enrichment

The Gordon Schools at Beth David Congregation has opened its After School Enrichment Program to the entire community.

The program is open to all children ages 2-11 and offers activities from sports to the arts, and from science to dance.

Classes will begin the week of Jan. 7, and registration is now open. To register your child, send an email to info@bethdavidmiami.org.

Law professor to speak

The community is invited to hear renowned Harvard law professor and author Alan Dershowitz at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 18, at Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center, 20400 NE 30th Ave. in Aventura.

The event is the fourth annual Young Professionals Friday Night Live Service and is being sponsored by the Jewish center and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s Miami Club. The evening will feature a musical service with Rabbi Jonathan Berkun on guitar and Cantor David Muchnick on keyboard. A Shabbat dinner will follow with conversation with Dershowitz. Prior to Shabbat, there will be a meet, greet and photo opportunity at 5 p.m.

The cost is $25 for adults and $10 for children. Complimentary babysitting will be provided. If you go, you must make your reservations by Jan. 16 to the Jewish center at 305-937-1880 or LKafka@atjc.org.