Article published in Southwestern Union Record - October, 2005
By Ariana Walker Alexander

Church coordinates community guest weekend

Alexandria Smyrna - The weekend of May 14-15 was very special to our community, as our church hosted a community guest weekend. Sabbath School superintendent Gloria Mitchell invited guest vocalists to render musical selections for the Sabbath School program.

Tony Brown, a local radio personality, was honored for his savvy journalistic techniques and suave manner of keeping the public's eyes open to various topics of community interest. Shelton Kilby, conference executive secretary, graced the congregation with his musical ability on the keyboard as he played, "Great Is Thy Faithfulness." After his virtuoso rendition, he fed members from the word of God.

On Sunday, the community was blessed with a Community Unity Festival, which was spearheaded by Pastor Robert Davis. The outdoor festival was geared toward improving peoples' health. Several tents were set up to take blood pressure and blood sugar checks, administer sickle cell tests, and draw blood from donors. A bank offered low-income home loans, the city police provided courtesy counseling, and Health Support Ministry offered various products and services. Life Share Blood Center, Sickle Cell Anemia Research Foundation, a local hospital, a home health agency, and others were on hand to offer their services.

Entertainment included Signs of Praise ministry (a sign language ministry from our church), gospel soloists and groups, mime artists, and gospel rappers. The children enjoyed inflated fun jumpers and other outdoor games and activities. Last, but not least, the food was scrumptious and the epitome of healthy living.