Pastor Ryan Morris saw the celebration as “but a foretaste of the unending celebration that is going on in heaven.”
The 175th anniversary of First Baptist Church, Hokes Bluff, was a two-service affair where “God was exalted,” Morris said. The 11 a.m. service focused on “What God has Done” while the 2 p.m. service looked at “What God is Doing.”
During the morning service, former pastor Jerry Starling preached a message from 1 Corinthians 1 and Sheree Estes presented a historical report. Allen Hudson sang special music and the church choir performed. Also, Kim Sewell Dilg played “a beautiful piano” solo.
After taking a break for lunch, the congregation again came together for worship and reflection. Musical highlights of the service included Curtis Buttram’s saxophone-led hymn, worship led by the youth praise team and special music by the Reunion Youth Choir. Morris brought a message from Acts 16.
The May 7 celebration services also included presentations of certificates by Alabama Baptist Historical Commission representative Wendell Dutton and Etowah Baptist Association Director of Missions Gary Cardwell.
The day was concluded with the dedication of the church’s Ministry Field.
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