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St. Paul’s Annual Outdoor Worship Welcomes New Members
By Tricia Hall
Sojourner’s Truth Reporter
St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church traditionally celebrates
Sunday worship at 1502 N. Detroit Avenue. However, once a
year for the past eight years, the congregation relocates to
the Toledo area Wildwood Metroparks for an outdoor service. |
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Rev. Derrick E. Roberts, Rev. James H. Willis, Sr, and new
church members Hilliard family |
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The Sunday, August 24 celebration opened with call to
worship, invocation, and the Lord’s Prayer. The congregation
sang three selections before Rev. James H. Willis Sr,
pastor, delivered the proclamation titled, “It Is What It
Is.”
“Every day is a blessing and full of mercies. We serve a God
that is real. Be sincere about the work you are doing,”
shared Rev. Willis. Immediately following Willis’
proclamation, the congregation invited every guest in
attendance to become a Christian and a member of St. Paul
Missionary Baptist Church.
One such family decided to become members on the spot and
received hugs and words of encouragement from Willis and the
church. Maurice Hilliard, Netra Hillard, and Jemanje Allen
became members of the congregation. “Amen. A man that brings
his family to church is such a blessing,” said Willis.
Sunday outdoor worship was followed with the traditional
after-service meal and fellowship. The committee served
fried chicken, ribs, greens, green beans, corn, cookies,
cakes, and other food items.
“We continue with outdoor fellowship, it allows us to step
out of the traditional sanctuary since church is in our
heart. We come together and lift up the name of Jesus. You
don’t have to be inside a building. I thank God for St.
Paul,” said Willis.
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