By Betsy Finklea
Fork Presbyterian Church held a special Memorial Day worship and cookout on Sunday, May 28th.
The church was decorated in a patriotic theme, both outside and inside. Several American flags were displayed outside the church. The inside was decorated with red, white, and blue balloons, patriotic bunting, and patriotic arrangements.
Each person who attended was presented a flag pin upon entering the church.
The prelude, “Amazing Grace,” was played by Daphne Hayes.
Announcements and celebration notices were given by James David Lane. Rev. Adrienne Anderson gave the welcome.
This was followed by the presentation of the flags. Steve Haywood brought in the U.S. flag, and Bobby Perritte brought in the Christian flag. Gracie Johnson brought in the Bible.
The congregation sang the national anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner.
Sandra Perritte read a tribute that recognized the valiant efforts of those who put country above self. This was followed by a silent prayer for those who lost loved ones in the war.
Taps was played by Daphne Hayes as memorial wreath was placed by Denise S. Hammond at the front of the church.
A Memorial Day poem called “Fallen Comrades” was read by Ken Scott. He wrote the poem. Rev. Anderson then called all of the children forward for the children’s lesson. The topic was “The American Flag.” Rev. Anderson told the children that the flag had 13 stripes for the 13 original colonies and 50 stars for the 50 states. She said the red on the flag represents courage, the white is for purity, and the blue is for justice. She said the colors can represent things about Jesus and God. She said the red color represents the blood of Jesus. The white represents when one gives his heart to Jesus and washes us white as snow. The blue represents that God is faithful.
The scripture lesson, Hebrews 12: 1-4, was read by Ashley Rogers. This was followed by prayer.
The congregation sang the first and last verses of “America The Beautiful.”
Comments and the offertory prayer were given by Joel Williams. The offertory was then taken. The congregation then sang the doxology. The choir sang the anthem, “God of Our Fathers.” The congregation then read the affirmation of faith.
Rev. Anderson gave the morning message. Her topic was “Remembering.” She said three million U.S. soldiers had lost their lives in war. She said there is no freedom without the shedding of blood. She said we need to think about their sacrifice and what it means.
The message was followed with a prayer and the singing of the hymn, “Count Your Blessings.” The postlude by Daphne Hayes followed.
Each member was given a balloon, and a balloon release was held immediately following the service.
After the balloon release, members enjoyed a cookout with hot dogs and hamburgers prepared by Chef Tim Rogers.