Charleston Church Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Charleston Church Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Story by Kathy Pepper

In the early 1900s, Seventh-day Adventist believers took the Adventist message to West Virginia’s capital, and through the years found various places to meet. Membership increased and they outgrew each one. Finally, in October 1963, they broke ground for a new building at 622 Kanawha Boulevard, along the Kanawha River. July 4, 1964, Pastor Norman Meager opened the doors for the first worship service in that building. Several of the people in attendance that day were also sitting in the pews recently to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of that first service.

Tom Bailey, a longtime member, planned the event complete with an orchestra and choir, which he also directed for the Sabbath service. Lonnie Malashenko, guest speaker, provided food for thought. The day also featured an engaging Sabbath School class discussion that Pastor Stewart Pepper led, and delicious food that Becky Bennett, Delores Smith and others prepared. The Jay Humphries Trio capped the Sabbath festivities with an uplifting, afternoon concert.

“The best part of the two-day celebration was reminiscing with those who came from far and near to share in the joy of the day,” says Pastor Pepper.