Whitmans honored for 5 decades of service at Gap Hill Church

A pastor and his wife who have served the same church for 50 years – and who continue to serve – were honored Aug. 7.

Boyce and Doris Whitman

Boyce and Doris Whitman were recognized during a homecoming service by the congregation of Gap Hill Church in Pickens-Twelve Mile Association for “outstanding life’s work – and dedicated service.”

The celebration began with the showing of a video with photographs from the past, set to the song, “Thank You for Giving to the Lord.”

Scott McCall, chairman of deacons, noted that all the members at Gap Hill could share similar testimonies of their experiences with the Whitmans, each of them receiving the same love, concern, dedication and selflessness that is indicative of their pastor and his wife.

The couple was presented a gift from the church along with a plaque. Mrs. Whitman shared her testimony of God’s blessing of strength and guidance in her life. Pastor Whitman recalled his surrendering to preach during his student years at Clemson University. He said that at his first worship service at Gap Hill, there were eight members in attendance – three of them from his own family. He also spoke of the growth and accomplishments of the church and of the mission opportunities he has experienced in the United States and around the world.

Ron Duncan, director of missions for Pickens-Twelve Mile Association, described Boyce as a “man of integrity” whom he met 30 years earlier when they worked together at Sangamo Electric.

He likened the relationship of Boyce and the Gap Hill congregation to that of Moses, who, following God’s instructions, needed and received help from those around him to continue the Lord’s work.

Jim Austin, executive director-treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, was on hand to congratulate the Whitmans and deliver the morning message. He spoke from Colossians 1:28-29, emphasizing the need for salvation of every man and the need for growth of every man after salvation.

A meal in the fellowship hall and an afternoon of singing by Providence Quartet followed the worship service.