The sounds of warm, clasping hands and friendly hugs echoed Tuesday morning from Blackshear’s Main Street when the church’s senior adults gathered at Blackshear First Baptist Church (FBC) to share a memorable time. “Celebrating Easter and togetherness,’’ commented Ann Cason, director of the popular monthly gathering. “This is and proved to be a time to glorify our Lord and to celebrate the many friendships enjoyed.’’
“Just Older Youths” (JOY) shared conversations, a chicken lunch and played bingo, their chatter mostly louder than the carpenters’ hammers and saws sounding from the outside of the church. A popular comment among everyone seemed to be “great things are happening at First Baptist Church as construction is moving forward.”
“Church members are participating in the additional building construction through their ‘Fulfill the Vision’ giving,’’ an FBC spokesperson said.
A highlight of the fellowship was launched by the Rev. Matt Peters, worship pastor and music director, when he called attention to Passover, the crucifixion and the resurrection of Christ. “Go and tell others of Christ and bring your friend or neighbor to our Easter service, one of HOPE.’’ Peters led the group in enjoying bingo with many prizes presented by helpers Terri Thompson, Kathryn Tison and Rita McNeal.
To enhance the program, JOY’sters were asked to share “praises.” Testifying as to what God has done and is doing for them were Nickie Carter, Anne Williams, Jean Bowen and Jackie Simmons.
The Rev. Joe Thigpen said a blessing prior to the delicious lunch, prepared by lunch sponsors, members of the Workers for Christ Sunday School Class, Ann Cason, director and members of the ministry team. Thigpen prayed for the world, the church and for those present, saying they represent a “great fellowship.’’
Mrs. Cason thanked everyone for their part in making the occasion “so successful,” including class members, and other helpers and greeters. Special appreciation from everyone was given by the almost 90 JOY’sters as they shared the delicious chicken tetrazzini, salad and Easter cakes baked in green and iced in white with the pastels of Easter.
A wooden cross draped in purple stood in a corner of the spacious room. Tables were impressively arranged with bunnies and arrangements of tulips and pastel eggs. All agreed the Southern biscuits were delightful.
Sharing the time of fellowship were former church pastor the Rev. Dr. Bill Young, Theresa Barnes Kirwin, the Rev. Ray Turner, pastor for senior adults; ladies of Women of Ruth and other ladies and gentlemen of the church assisted with the serving and clean-up.
JOY congratulated birthday honorees at their Easter luncheon. Seen above are (l-r) Janice Pittman, Lynn Barber, Vera Popham, Jan Martin, Judy Williamson, Nickie Carter, Susan Slumbreck, Jane Bowen, Shirley Thigpen, Rev. Joe Thigpen, Mavis Wilkes, Harold Dire, Linda Dire, Billy Taylor, Vickie Vincent, Sue Thornton, Dennis Stoudt and Gail Thigpen. (Photos by Kathryn Tison)
Happy wedding anniversary! Best wishes were sung to JOY anniversary couples (l-r) Bill Gibbs, Patricia Tucker Gibbs, Janice Pittman and Harold and Linda Dire.
