By Richard Bell
The three-day celebration of the 180th anniversary of the East Preston United Baptist Church got off to a rousing start with a full church “Gospel/Variety Concert.” Rev. Debbie Simmonds was the evening’s MC for one sharp, crisp performance after another that had the crowd on their feet and singing along to well-loved songs. Performers included the Praise Dancers, Susan Hansen, The Frazier Family, Lyris Daye, The Tollivers, Trynda Thomas, Rev. Kadel Brown, and the church’s own Young Adults with the closing song, “My God Can Do Anything.”
The anniversary celebration continued through the weekend, with a Saturday “Fun Day” with a free fashion show, food, treats, prizes, bouncy castle, games for children and adults, a free Cake Walk, and a car show. There were two services on Sunday, with guest preacher Pastor Matthew Thomas at the afternoon service. (You can watch videos of both services on the East Preston United Baptist Church Facebook page.)
The 3-day celebration closed with a banquet dinner at the Best Western Hotel in Burnside.