 On July 16, 2023, we returned to serving communion and performing the offertory service as we did before the emergency covid orders shut down all places of worship in March of 2020. From March of 2020 to July of 2023, we had congregants stand and process through a line of deacons who served the elements. Offertory plates were made available in the sanctuary but were not passed. We also offered online credit card payments. On July 16, 2023, ushers began to pass the plate during the offertory hymn again, after which the congregation sang the doxology. The deacons served communion by passing the plates.
Beginning July 1, we closed the sanctuary for renovations, including new carpet, refinished pews, paint, and installation of a new audiovisual system.  The WMU and youth committee hosted the 2023 graduation breakfast on June 4, 2023 (see 'sermons' tab for more pictures). There were seventeen graduates this year. Graduates were recognized in worship with a gift from the Youth Committee. High School Graduates: Evan Barefoot (Wingate), Laney Edwards (Meredith), Charlie Hatch (Wake Tech), Laley Norman (Appalachian State), Sophia Pineda (Campbell), Eli Price (ECU), Brent Turner (Fire Academy), Caroline Tucker (NCSU), Thomas Vann (Culinary School). College Graduates: Logan Baker (BS, Business Admin, Campbell University), Ben Edwards (Associates, Turf Grass, NCSU), Erin Henderson (JD, Depaul), Ashley Luckett (DNP, UNCW), Meilyn Norman (BA, Anthropology, Wake Forest U), Thomas Vann (Associates, Information Technology, JCC), Wynter Wood (M.S. Agricultural Education, NCA&T U).  |