Andersonville Church, Anderson, celebrated Pastor Appreciation Day on April 10 to honor pastor Bruce Evans and his wife Norma Jean for 20 years of service to the church and community. The event, which featured special music and speakers who shared about Evans’ ministry, was attended by current and former church members, as well as 26 members of Evans’ family. Ladies of the church presented Evans with a scrapbook containing mementos from his various ministries at Andersonville, and the congregation presented him with a picture titled “The Legacy” and a luncheon following the service. Pictured are Norma Jean and Bruce Evans with their daughter Amy.
Approximately 50 people attended a sunrise Easter service at Barker’s Creek Church, Honea Path. The church has formed a new WMU mission group called “The Out of Towners.” The group has chosen to spend money on mission projects in the nearby Williamston area, partly because of rising gasoline prices.
The endowed scholarship Suzanne Gasque established at Charleston Southern University more than a decade ago received a substantial increase when family and friends presented a check from her estate on April 27, bringing the scholarship fund to more than $200,000. Laura Spiers (below, left), niece of Suzanne Gasque, presents a check to Tara Hulsey, dean of the school of nursing. Also pictured are CSU president Jairy Hunter, Jean Gasque (sister-in-law of Suzanne Gasque), and Adair Fogle, administrator of the Gasque estate.
The youth of Fairview Church, Greer, recently traveled to Garden City for a mission trip during their spring break. The primary focus of the trip was to assist Garden City Chapel by the Sea with preparations for their summer camp, which included making a prayer garden, as well as cleaning and painting dorm rooms. The group also held evangelism training while there, and as a result of their efforts, one person made a commitment to Christ. The week ended with a Good Friday communion service on the beach.
More than 130 ladies enjoyed a Treasured by God Tea Party held at Bamberg First Church on April 12. The men of the church served tea and refreshments, using a china tea set belonging to former missionary Sherri Dodd, who began her china collection during the 25 years she and her husband served in Europe. Following the tea party, Dodd delivered an uplifting message, telling about her life experiences, humor, and the china collection. After speaking to church groups, Dodd (who lives in Stockbridge, Ga., with her family) packs up the used china, and the following day she and several close friends unpack and handwash each teacup and plate as they pray for each lady who used them.
Ridgeville Church, Screven Association, named Noel W. “Fred” West deacon emeritus on April 17 in recognition of his 40 years of service. Pastor Clyde McCants officiated at the service and awarded a plaque of appreciation to West on behalf of the church. During his long tenure as deacon, West served several times as chairman of deacons, and was teacher of the men’s Sunday school class for more than 20 years. In addition, he served on the executive board of Screven Association until health issues prevented his continued service. West’s wife Nancy, who serves as the ministry assistant/clerk at Ridgeville, joined him in the celebration, along with their four children, grandchildren, and many friends.