The St. John’s United Methodist Women held their annual Mother/Daughter Banquet recently. President Judy Fairbanks began the covered-dish celebration, enjoyed by 68 ladies of all ages, with a brief greeting and prayer.
Following the dinner and introductions, the “Mother of the Year” Award was presented to Sandra Hockman. Clarice Knotts received a “Special Mission Recognition” pin, and Shelby Kisner was honored for her years of dedication, with a “50-Year Member” pin.
Willetta Bolinger presented a devotional program entitled “Wisdom Getters,” reflecting on the inspirational leadership of several “wise” ladies of the past. Special music was provided by the guest gospel singing group, Joyful Noise. Nola DeVilder recognized former “Mothers of the Year,” presenting those in attendance with a red geranium.
Door prizes were awarded to several individuals, and then Tracey Dent closed the evening with a Memorial Service and prayer honoring those the group had lost since Mother’s Day of 2013, which included: Marsha Jean Phillips Bishoff – July 22, 2013, Carolyn Joyce Wise Wiles – October 21, 2013, Eleanor Dailey Frazee – November 20, 2013, and Edwina “Joan” Booth Poling – February 5, 2014.
The ladies also recently honored some special Tucker County graduates. The UM Women presented Bibles to the Tucker County High School Class of 2014 Graduating Seniors connected with the church as a participating member or through a parent or grandparent. As President Judy Fairbanks and Pastor Philip Dent presented Bibles, graduates were asked to share their plans for the future.
Bibles were awarded to: Stephanie Lynn Betler, Brandon Ray Carr, Emily Lou Dent, Tyler Keith Fike, Jessica Ellen Kincaid, Mitchell Joseph Mason, Seth Kayne Millican, Joshua Scott Thompson, and Shannon Marie Whitehair. Pastor Dent closed the ceremony with a prayer of blessing and guidance for the graduates and their families.
The St. John’s United Methodist Women meet the second Tuesday of each month in the church fellowship area of Smith Chapel at 7 PM. All women are invited to join them. For more information please contact the church at 304-478-2620 or at stjohnsparson@yahoo.com.