Pastors Jeffery Alexander and Earl A. Caruthers Sr. with co-pastors and members during recent services.
Old Saint Paul Baptist Church in Bessemer recently celebrated its 131st anniversary, honoring its congregants and the church’s service to communities throughout Bessemer.
The theme was taken from Ephesians 3:20-21. Rev. Adrian Minor of Christ The Lord Church of Atlanta, Georgia, brought the morning message.
Pastor Jeffery Alexander and the Old Saint Paul congregation honored the memories of Pastor Alfonzo January, Deacon Thomas Jones, Deacon Simmie Roberson Sr., Sister Angelia Johnson, Sister Vezelia Baldwin, Sister Dearther Johnson, Brother Truman Robinson, Deacon James Alexander, Sister Brenda Shelley and Brother Ralph Hubbard.
They also honored elder and faithful living members Brother Wilburn Curtis, Sister Dorthy Curtis, Sister Mary J. Speed and Deacon Brown L. Whitfield.
Sister Beyunka Parker shared the church’s history, Balinda Caldwell gave the welcome and occasion, and Brother B.J. Burgin led the meditation.
Members of Christ The Lord Church of Atlanta were the visiting guests, and the choir brought a spirit-filled rendition of the gospel number “The Blood Still Works” in the ceremonial opening.
Pastor Earl A. Caruthers Sr. of Christ The Lord Church brought the thoughtful message from Exodus 33:12-18, on the subject “Experiencing God’s Reveal Presence.” He spoke on the diligence Christians should have in seeking God thoroughly in their lives.
It was a great church experience and a touching historical acknowledgment to realize one of our communal spiritual sites has been around for 131 years, serving as a staple and exemplar of God’s grace in our time.
Chairperson Sister Teresa Henderson and church members made sure the day was as memorable as possible with warm greetings and doses of love.
Pastor Alexander said, “We all should conduct ourselves in a sincere and real manner, for people will better receive you when being yourself than when trying to be something we’re not and that’s what God loves, us coming as we are.”
The church’s kitchen staff, overseen by Sister Jean Maye, shared nourishing dishes with members and visitors.
We celebrate our churches throughout Bessemer (Jefferson County as a whole) for their continued service and inspiration within our lives as we celebrate Pastor Alexander and the Old Saint Paul congregation. Keep sharing the Eternal Word.