By Betsy Finklea
Homecoming was held at Latta United Methodist Church on Sunday, September 29th.
It was the first homecoming held at the church in nearly 30 years. Approximately 200 people were in attendance.
The service began with the prelude and bringing forth the light, the greeting, and community notices and concerns. The call to worship was “This Is The Day.” This was followed by the congregation joining together in singing “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty.” Rev. Lee Phillips, the current pastor of Latta United Methodist Church, then gave the children’s sermon.
After the children’s sermon, Becky Coleman and her daughter, Raney McLean Coleman, performed a piano duet, “Do Lord, Jesus Loves Me.” Becky Coleman then performed a piano solo, “Spiritual Melody.”
The pastoral prayer along with the Lord’s Prayer was prayed. This was followed by the youth Spirit Ringers handbell choir performing “Morning Has Broken” during the offertory. The Doxology was played during the dedication of tithes and offerings. The congregation then sang the hymn, “I Love Thy Kingdom Lord.”
Musical selections were performed by “This Generation,” a group consisting of Wayne, Brian, Kevin, and Allen Varnadoe of Walterboro. They are members of the family of Rev. Phillips’ wife, Vickie.
After their performance, Becky Coleman performed a musical solo, “Amazing Grace.” The scripture lesson was Mark 10:35-45. The anthem, “Blessed Assurance,” was performed by Steve Coleman.
Rev. Ron Pettit, the guest speaker, gave the message. It was entitled “The Secret Of Greatness.” Rev. Pettit served in Latta from 1981-1985. He retired after 46 years of service in the conference. He and his wife, Jennifer, currently live in Orangeburg.
After the message, the congregation sang the hymn, “Are Ye Able.” This was followed by the benediction and the response, “Shalom.” The Trinity Chimes followed in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The postlude and carrying out of the light ended the service.
After the service, members and guests enjoyed a covered dish lunch in the fellowship hall.
Those who would like to share thoughts, stories, or memories about Latta United Methodist Church may do so by e-mailing the church at latta_umc@att.net. The church website can be located at churches.umcsc.org/latta/latta/. The church’s page on Facebook® is located at www.facebook.com/LattaUnitedMethodistChurch.
The church is located at 306 North Marion Street, Latta.
