Anniversaries are to be commemorated, and when something lasts for 50 years there is cause for friends to gather and celebrate.
That was the case Sept. 27 when Greer Baptist Association observed a half-century of service during a celebration at Fairview Baptist Church in Greer.
People were greeted as they arrived by a choir of more than 200 singers, all members of GBA churches. Steven Patton, senior pastor at Fairview, welcomed visitors. Cleatus Blackmon, GBA’s director of missions, read a message from Greer mayor Rick Danner in which the mayor officially proclaimed the date to be Greer Baptist Association Day.
Blackmon recognized individuals who have been a part of GBA since its beginning. He also recognized pastors of GBA member churches who were present. Finally, referencing what he described as the most important group in attendance, he asked those who had been saved through the work of a GBA church to stand. Gesturing toward them, Blackmon said, “That’s kingdom business. That’s why God created the church.”
Jim Austin, executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, offered congratulations to the association. He also spoke about God’s Plan for Sharing, a new program of the North American Mission Board. He said it is the mission of the convention that every person in South Carolina be able to hear the gospel in a way that relates to him or her.
Richard Blackaby was the featured speaker during Greer Baptist Association’s celebration.Richard Blackaby, president of Blackaby Ministries International, was the evening’s featured speaker. His message focused on the future of the church. Blackaby said the church should not fear changes that will come in the future. He advised the church not to put its head in the sand but to be willing to do what it takes to reach people in a quickly changing world.
Blackaby also said the church that lasts in the future is one that invests in young people. He also told listeners that the church should not forget to equip believers. He said the church needs to emphasize worship and evangelism equally.
In final remarks, GBA director of missions Blackmon said the planning committee hoped the celebration would serve to “launch the next 50 years” of ministry. He said GBA plans to stay busy for the cause of Christ and to continue reaching the surrounding community.