The Shadow
WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS W.Va. (VR) – First Baptist Church, White Sulphur Springs, celebrated its 150th anniversary, last Sunday afternoon, with Rev. Dante Shehan as the anniversary speaker. Rev. Gregory Scott has served as afternoon 18 of those 150 years. Shehan traveled from his home in Charlotte, NC to deliver a message on the anniversary’s theme, “We’re Still Holding On.” Shehan considers FBC his home church “for the time he lived in White Sulphur Springs.” Shehan, an Emergency Room Registered Nurse, is the former executive pastor of New Birth Church in Charlotte.
Shehan opened with a song, backed up by the Resurrecting Praise Community Choir. The RPCC was the guest choir, under the direction of Roger Patterson and Sue Venable, but the congregation was also treated to several selections by the Blue Grass Revival.
The BGR is made up of a husband-and-wife team: Merl and Terry Hamrick (singer and banjo player); Donnie Ellis (bass player); and Mike Bailey (lead singer and guitarist).
In addition to preaching, musical guests, a testimony and praise dance, and a reading of the church’s history by Deacon Paulette King, the church was recognized by West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and presented with a proclamation by White Sulphur Springs Mayor Kathy Glover.
“As the governor of WV, I am delighted to welcome you to the 150th anniversary of the First Baptist Church,” said Minister Joyce Carter, as she read the governor’s letter to the church, in part. “It’s a joy to celebrate this remarkable milestone with you. This church is a vital part of our community,” the letter continued. His letter was also complimentary to the church’s standing in the community and the exemplary leadership of Scott. “I’m confident that the First Baptist Church will continue to be a beacon of faith for many years to come,” Justice’s letter said in closing.
Glover presented Scott with a resolution of respect, recognizing, and congratulating the church on 150 years. After her presentation, she took a seat in the congregation and enjoyed the remainder of the service.
Scott closed the service by thanking everyone for their participation. “We had a good time in Jesus,” added Scott.
