By Mary Miller
It was an historic Sunday at East Dillon Baptist Church on October 7 as its members, former members, their families and friends joined together to celebrate Homecoming and the 66th Anniversary of the church.
James Smith, Pastor, welcomed everyone to the special occasion and then opened the service with prayer, particularly thanking the Lord for the bountiful blessings given to East Dillon Baptist through all these years.
Photos by Johnnie Daniels/The Dillon Herald
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He introduced Stan Shuman, a Christian music singer, who opened the morning program. Mr. Shuman’s rich baritone voice resonated through the sanctuary as he beautifully performed familiar hymns as well as songs he himself had written.

Following the concert, Pastor Smith introduced guest speaker Reverend Keith Mincey who had accepted God’s call to the ministry while a member of East Dillon Baptist, the church in which he grew up. His inspirational and encouraging message about Elijah, the Prophet, was taken from the Old Testament Book of I Kings, Chapter 19. This was Reverend Mincey’s second homecoming at East Dillon, giving him and his family the opportunity to reunite with kinfolks and old friends.

At the conclusion of the sermon, Pastor James thanked God for the memorable day and asked His blessings on the meal that would follow. He encouraged everyone to continue the Homecoming celebration by inviting them to the Fellowship Hall to enjoy the delicious food prepared by the ladies of the church.