LIMA — During its traditional Sunday morning worship service, Pastor David E. Kelly acknowledged several individuals who have been members of the church since the year of its dedication 60 years ago.
New Hope Missionary Baptist Church has remained at its same location at 328 E. Fourth St. in Lima since April 1962, when it was led by the late Rev. Eddie Kelly, Sr. A new building on the same site was dedicated in 2004.
Over the last 60 years, “through it all was God’s grace and mercy,” said Albert Peterson, who attended the church for that long and coordinated Sunday’s recognition event. “We’re excited and are looking forward to 60 more years serving the Lord.”
Recognized individuals during the ceremony included 60-year members Cloria Jones, sisters-in-law Catherine Coleman and Shirley Coleman, Gloria Fay Cloud, Johnnie Upshaw, and others who could not be present.
The celebrated individuals participated in various church activities and leadership positions over the years:
• Cloria Jones is a charter member; she and her husband donated the first piano to the old church when it opened.
• Catherine Coleman, who previously participated in the Choir Ministry, said it was a pleasure and honor to be part of the church and that she enjoyed its family-oriented fellowship.
• Shirley Coleman, previously participated in the Choir Ministry and Kitchen Ministry.
• Gloria Fay Cloud, who previously served on the fundraising committee and is currently Vice President of the Ushers Ministry, said she is glad she was able to be a part of the New Hope family.
• Johnnie Upshaw previously served in the Ushers Ministry and currently serves on the Missionary and Mothers Ministry.
Each received a potted flowering plant on display during Easter Sunday’s service.
“Services are conducted in the traditional African American Missionary Baptist Church format,” Peterson said. “Our goal is to follow God’s instruction and to do His work.”
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