Suffolk Christian celebrates anniversary
Published 9:25 pm Friday, November 5, 2010
Suffolk Christian Church has been celebrating its 150th anniversary all year, but its actual birthday is this month.
The church held a revival in April and a picnic in July. However, this weekend marks the founding of the church in November 1860. Members and former members will celebrate today and tomorrow.
Today, a covered dish dinner will be held at 5 p.m., followed by a program in the sanctuary featuring musical groups, shared memories and a historical video of the church’s 150 years.
Tomorrow, the church will meet on the front steps for a group photo at 9:30 a.m. At 10:30 a.m., the anniversary worship service will begin with special guest speaker the Rev. John G. Truitt Jr. He is the son of the Rev. John G. Truitt Sr., who was pastor from 1933 to 1949.
After tomorrow’s morning service, a complimentary lunch will be served. At 2 p.m., a wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery at the graves of Dr. William B. Wellons, founding pastor, and Dr. William W. Staley, longest-serving pastor.
Wellons founded the church in November 1860 in the heart of downtown, the same place it still stands today. During the Civil War, it was occupied by Union forces. However, Wellons returned and started the church over after the war.
Staley was pastor of the church for 40 years and pastor emeritus for another 10 years.
The church’s many ministries include a Sunday school, Saints Alive, a vibrant youth ministry, well-known music ministry, and community activities like volunteering with Suffolk Meals on Wheels and Relay for Life. The Rev. Michael Halley is the current pastor.
Reservations were required for the meals, but guests are welcome at all the other services.
Call 539-9182 for more information.