In 1837 a bell hung in an old country church. The bell was used to ring in joy during church services and weddings, but it also rang out in sadness during funeral services and tragedies.
And although its toll hasn’t been heard in many years, it served as a tribute to a simpler time Sept. 10 when Zion Baptist Church, Woodland, celebrated its 150th anniversary.
In addition to the bell, old documents, offering plates and photos also offered glimpses into Zion Baptist’s history as Larry Morrison shared an overview of the past 150 years during the morning service. Zion Pastor David Daniel, who grew up in the church, shared a message and members gave accounts of their experiences with various ministries of Zion Baptist.
Special guests were a prominent feature of the celebration. Sonja Adams, Alabama Baptist Historical Commission (ABHC) representative, presented two framed certificates, one on behalf of ABHC and the other on behalf of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.
Rep. Bob Fincher, R-District 37, presented a commemorative resolution from the Alabama Legislature, an act that was personal for Fincher as his great-grandmother, Lucinda Darden, was a charter member of Zion Baptist.
Former pastors and members also were recognized during the service.
As members and visitors left the celebration they looked out over the cemetery adjacent to the church and saw on some gravestones white ribbons swaying in the breeze, one last tribute to the charter members who followed the Lord’s leading all those years ago to build a foundation that would stand the test of time.
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