The “Merrymakers” of Central Baptist Church recently celebrated 52 years as an organization during its monthly luncheon.
Talented guitarist Wes Highsmith provided music for the gathering, which Phyllis Driver proclaimed a “great assemblage of church family —older friends” to celebrate the occasion.
Driver presided over the event in the absence of Merrymakers president Sherry Jernigan, who was recovering from a knee ailment.
The group’s luncheon, held the fourth Monday of each month, is shared by many “just older youths” of the church and other friends.
Talented church women decorated the fellowship hall with outstanding appointments for the Easter season and highlighting the lunch of a hamburger/ hot dog feast, with sides topped with iced cupcakes and ice cream to celebrate the birthday.
Driver introduced Highsmith, lauding him as a “talented musician” who plays bass and rhythm guitar during church worship.
“We so appreciate Wes and really enjoyed his presentation by guitar of favorite Christian songs,” Driver said.
Highsmith is retired from Southeast Regional Development Center. His wife, Tami Highsmith, was among the appreciative audience.
Bill Blackrick, the church’s minister of music, asked the blessing prior to the lunch and also discussed birthdays in his inspirational devotional.
Among those sharing in the festivities were the Rev. Ben Smith, the current church pastor, and the Rev. Dr. Bill Young, its former pastor.
