More than 500 people crowded into the sanctuary of First Baptist Church, Kingstree, on Jan. 20 for the congregation’s 150th anniversary celebration.
Among those attending the 150th anniversary celebration at First Baptist Church, Kingstree, were (l to r) James Jordan, former interim pastor; Carlos Peterson, former pastor; Steve Williams, former pastor; Ted Mears, former pastor; David Dinkins, current pastor; and J. Rodolph Dixon, former interim pastor.The service also included the presentation of the congregation’s new pastor, David Dinkins, by moderator of deacons Dent Adams.
Dinkins formerly served as director of the associational services office of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. He also has been director of missions for Santee Baptist Association and held pastorates in Walterboro and Orangeburg.
Guests and members attending the celebration received a copy of “Memoirs of the First Baptist Church of Kingstree,” which included facts about the church’s history and testimonies of members about the importance of the church in their lives.
Rex Hunter, associate pastor and music director, led the service of celebration. The anniversary committee was chaired by Emma Williamson, organist for the offertory, and the church’s handbell choir and orchestra, led by director Lynn Cox, were also part of the day’s musical program.
State Sen. Yancey McGill presented to the church a framed certificate from the South Carolina Senate commemorating the anniversary.
Beth Croom was recognized for 25 years as the church’s financial secretary. She received a gift, presented by Ann Oliver; Sam Coates, music minister and associate pastor at Pelham Road Baptist Church, Greenville; and former pastor Carlos Peterson, who delivered the anniversary message.
Other former ministers and staff members in attendance included David Morrell, Rodolph Dixon, James Jordan, Fred Badders and Ted Mears.
“What pleased me most,” Hunter said, “was the spirit of the morning. It was a wonderful celebration. – I saw the Lord moving – I loved it!”
Editor’s Note: Information was obtained from an article in The News, Kingstree, written by Eleanor Winn Foxworth.