IN AUGUST 1964, Bethany Baptist Church, McCormick, began a “Love” story that has lasted more than 41 years.
The congregation recognized C.B. Love and his wife Virginia Aug. 25, expressing appreciation for his long tenure as pastor. The retiring pastor began his ministry nearly 71 years ago, and has spent 41 years of it at the McCormick church.
Until 1983, the church, which did not hold services every Sunday, shared its pastor with two other congregations. The congregation then began holding regular Sunday services and Love devoted all of his time to it, growing it to a current membership of about 110.
The deacons presented the Loves with a clock and plaque on the church’s behalf, and the children of the church gave the pastor a framed portrait of the group.
“God called, you answered, devoting your life to him. … More than a pastor, you’re our dearest friend,” said Jeff Fuller, reading from a poem written by Jody Hovis.
“He has been a great leader for us,” affirmed church member Charles Gable.
Love preached his last message as pastor of Bethany from John 6:66-69, the same scripture passage he used for his first sermon there.
Editor’s Note: Information based on an article that appeared in the McCormick Messenger.