Thank You Community

This newsletter called “THE COMMUNICATOR” is celebrating 37 years of existence. It has served two pastors named Smith. It was pioneered by another Smith named Cheryl Smith Benefield who served as the editor for about ten years. The Communicator has been revised several times through the years as we address contemporary issues. It has informed, inspired and instructed many people through the years. Noting the significance of this newsletter I am writing my last article for the Communicator as Pastor with gratitude by saying Thank You.

Thank you to the previous editors of this newsletter: Rev. Cheryl Smith Benefield, Sis. SarittaRobinson, Sis. Sharon Bryant and Sis. Darlene Sowemimo. A special thanks to Sis. Sowemimo for serving as editor for the last 20 years which is over half the life of this newsletter. She has served passionately and with grace. There are many who have contributed articles through the years. Chief among them is Pastor Emeritus who wrote articles for over 30 years that blessed us. Dr. John W. Downing, Jr. has contributed medical articles for the past 15 years that have enlightened us on health issues. Sis Virginia Baker-Jeffcoat’s articles concerning the welfare of our children have helped us understand law and policy as we minister to our young ones.

Thank you, Sis. Alecia Dupree for your faithful service as our church administrative assistant. She has served as the producer of our newsletter since the beginning. We have moved from mailing a paper newsletter to posting an electronic one. Through all the transitions she has served with grace. This Christian woman has served all the pastors of this church.

Thanks Community for your support for both Pastor Smiths. Our membership present and past have made valuable contributions that have made our ministry viable. Everyone who has served, supported and sacrificed their time, talent and treasure is most appreciated. We honor those who rest with the Lord and from their labor at Community, for their works do follow them.

Last but not least, I honor the leadership of Pastor Rudolph and Lady Edna. Pastor Rudolph’s vision, virtue and voice will forever have an imprint on this ministry. Lady Edna’s diligence in hospitality and fund development has enhanced our church. Lady Felecia has served as our Executive Pastor for the past 12 years. She has implemented policy and procedures to help guide, guard and govern our ministry. She has been a blessing to our ministry and to me.

This is by no means a complete list of the work performed at Community Church. Space would not allow me to highlight all who have served. For the last issue of the Communicator under the Smiths’ leadership, we would like to honor the staff of our newsletter and honor our church at large. We love you and remain faithful members of Community Church.

The Pastors Smith