From The Pastor's Desk

Praise God from whom all blessings flow! “For the Lord is good, His mercy is everlasting, and His truth
endures to all generations.” The Lord continues to richly bless Bethel. The next ninety days are crucial
for our church this year and into the future as we enter the height of our 125th Church Anniversary
Celebration.

Churches often use the theme, “We’ve Come This Far By Faith” for church anniversary celebrations.
Congregations acknowledge the achievements of past leaders and members. They note the
accomplishments of the past. While it is good to celebrate the past, we must also consider the future.
Those who study American history lament that “The Great Generation” or the builders who established
many of our organizations and institutions of today are passing off the scene. They wonder what the future
will bring. Many fear that our best days are behind us. Yet in the midst of doubts and fears let us
challenge these doubts and fears, with an audacious hope as described by President Barak Obama. We
must use accomplishments of the past to serve as foundations, platforms, and stepping stones to
fuel our vision and hope for the future.

Our vision is to be a beacon of hope to individuals, families, the community, and the world. Proverbs 29:18
states, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Paul appearing before King Agrippa in Acts 26:19
states, “I was not obedient to the heavenly vision.”

There are many insights on the power and purpose of vision available in the scriptures and other resources
to inspire us. We must understand that vision comes from God. Vision is a mental image of a preferable
future. Vision provides a sense of direction for the church. Vision is a source of motivation and inspiration.
Join with me in praying, fasting, and seeking the face of God over these next ninety days of worship
services, celebrations, and activities for our 125th church anniversary. Let us not only reflect on the
accomplishments of the past, but let us come together with one accord through the guidance and direction
of the Holy Spirit to become conduits of God’s blessings and resources to this community. Think about it,
we believe that through Jesus Christ, we have access to all the power, might, and resources of God, our
Heavenly Father. Let us think and believe as Paul and many generations of Christians before us that “We
can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.” (see Philippians 4:13)

We Need Everyone To Join Us For Revival Services May 3rd, 4th, and 5th!!!
We Need Everyone To Support Our 125th Church Anniversary Activities!!!
We Need Everyone To Join Us In Prayer, Fasting, & Sacrificial Giving!!!
We Need Everyone To Embrace Our Emphasis For The Next Ninety Days…
May – The Vision of the Church
June – The Faith of the Church
July – The Witness of the Church

Remember our motto: “We’re all in this together, being the church God has called us to be. “
“To God be the glory!!!

Dr. Edward O. Williamson, Pastor-Teacher