By Kristie Banes

LENOIR CITY, Tenn. (Sept. 19, 2017) -- On Sunday, Sept. 10, Trinity United Methodist Church celebrated 150 years in ministry and service with 163 persons in attendance. It was a wonderful day of worship and fellowship.

We were honored with the presence of our resident Bishop Mary Virginia “Dindy” Taylor and husband, the Rev. Rusty Taylor; the Rev. Brenda Carroll, Oak Ridge District superintendent; and the Rev. Jason Gattis, Maryville District superintendent.

We received two proclamations. The first proclamation was received from Lenoir City, presented and read by Mayor Tony Aikens, with Councilwoman Jennifer Wampler, Councilman Mike Henline, and City Recorder Jim Wilburn in attendance. The second proclamation was received from The State of Tennessee, presented and read by State Representative Kent Calfee with greetings from State Representative Jimmy Matlock.

We greatly enjoyed Rev. Henry Lenoir as he reminded us of Isaiah’s call story and response, “Here am I, send me.” The Rev. Andy Ferguson, who served Trinity 1987-1991, brought the morning message by sharing stories of his time as pastor and the people, who through their faith taught him many lessons. Of course, these were lessons we needed to hear at this time and in this place. We were also pleased that Celia Ferguson and Rev. Mahan and Laura Archer were able to be with us as well.

It was truly a day of celebration as friends old and new came to share with us we remembered our past. The oldest in attendance was 98, and the youngest was less than 6 months old.

Now, we have the opportunity to lead our community into the future to ensure that Trinity United Methodist Church continues to have a vital and effective ministry for the next 150 years. We are trusting not only in our faithfulness, but in the faithfulness of our God, His vision, and His plans for us. We are living into His will, trusting Him to go with us, and walking in His glory.

The Rev. Kristie Banes is pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church.