People came from as far as Athens, Georgia, to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Bethlehem Baptist Church, Lacey’s Spring. “The Lord blessed us with good attendance,” said church member Janice Burt.
Pastor Joshua Doss spoke on “Looking Back, Charging Forward” during the April 29 service. Special music was performed by April Israel, the church choir and the children’s choir.
Eldridge Criscoe, who served as pastor from 1964 to 1969, shared memories of his time at the church. Jackie Kay, a former member who was baptized, married and ordained at Bethlehem Baptist, sent in a video greeting for the congregation. Kay recently retired as pastor of Central Park Baptist Church, Decatur. Since 1960, Bethlehem Baptist has sent out 12 ministers and at least 3 of the 12 have served as missionaries with the International Mission Board.
Charlie Howell, director of missions for Madison Baptist Association, presented a certificate on behalf of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and Lonette Berg, executive director of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission, also presented the church with a certificate. The service concluded with a time of prayer over the church and its future.
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