Pickens Association marks 175 years by candlelight

The 175th anniversary meeting of Pickens Baptist Association from Oct. 11–12 ended much the way the first meeting might have — by candlelight.

While the first night of the meeting, held at New Salem Baptist Church, Reform, moved along as planned, the second night at First Baptist Church, Aliceville, contained a surprise. Just as the meeting was about to begin, the electricity went out. Candles used for Christmas services were lit instead.

“I can only conclude that God had a different, more meaningful and [memorable] experience in mind for us,” Director of Missions Gary Farley said.

The two-day celebration included singing hymns from the association’s earliest days, hearing messages about the hymns’ themes and reflecting on the history of the association and its churches.

Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, preached the annual missions sermon.

Five local pastors also spoke during the meeting, and Farley shared his thoughts about the future of Pickens Association and its ministry.  “The data from the churches confirmed that God is continuing to bless us and use us,” he said. “By our cooperating, we can attempt and successfully do great things for God and His Kingdom.”