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“We’re
celebrating 98 years, which is leading to our 100 year
celebration in 2017. We wanted to give the membership an
opportunity to show their appreciation for how far we have
come over these 98 years,” explained Rev. James H. Willis
Sr.
The program
opened with a meet-and-greet starting at 6:00 p.m. and
welcomed over 150 guests. Yvonne Gayle served as mistress of
ceremony; Deaconess Loretta Quinn officially welcomed all
family members and guests in attendance; Aufwiefersehen
Winfield read a prepared statement explaining the history of
the church, while a video presentation outlining past
accomplishments and members was viewed.
“I challenge
each of you to reflect on the past, as we continue our
journey into the future,” shared Winfield.
The
congregation’s history dates back to July 1917, when
services were held in Mamie Porte’s home on Howard Street.
Rev. Joseph Smith served as the pastor for 41 years, then
Rev. Smith led the church until Rev. John McKissick was
installed in October 1969. Current pastor, Rev. James Willis
Sr was elected as pastor in October 2003.
“Once we
decided to pull this together, we brought in former members,
we wanted to bring the family together. That’s why it’s
called a family reunion. Brother [Joseph] Sommerville wanted
to organize this actual reunion activity,” said Willis.
Deborah
Gardner sang a soulful selection for attendees, Total Praise
presented two ministry routines, Deaconess Mary Reed
delivered a special recognition, and Mayor Paula
Hicks-Hudson presented a proclamation to Rev. Willis and
church membership.
“This is my
church home. I remember the names and faces from the video
presentation and booklet from over 30 years ago. Those faces
welcomed me to the church, the true spirit of love was
welcoming. Our pastor has helped me, not just as Toledo’s
mayor, but throughout my public life. I present this
proclamation to honor our pastor and the church family,”
explained Mayor Paula Hicks-Hudson.
“We’re
excited by the fact, our mayor is a member of St. Paul, the
honorary Paula Hicks-Hudson,” said Willis,
St. Paul
Missionary Baptist Church invites the community to join
Sunday worship at 10:45 a.m. The 2015 Family Reunion
Committee Chairmen Mary McKinley-Reed and Madeline Hampton;
Arrangements and Entertainment Committee Chairman First Lady
Linnie Willis; Souvenir Booklet Chairman Barbara Tucker, and
members Madeline Hampton, Sharon Hubbard, Deacon Jesse
Phifer and Madeline Standard; Publicity Committee Chairman
Rev. Marcia Dinkins, and members: Linda Garner, Margie
Scotland, Cliffie Hunter, and Michelle Jenkins;
Correspondence Committee Chairman Sharon Hubbard, and
members: Yvonne Gayle, and members: Y’Vann Winfield, Rev.
Marcia Dinkins, Deacon Joseph Sommerfield and Ted Patton;
Hospitality Chairman Deborah Gardner, Finance Chairman
Celine Winfield, Tickets Chairman Deacon David Taylor,
Decorations Chairman Beverly Beasley and History Chairman
Cliffie Hunter.
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