Kennedy Richardson
Gadsden County News Service
Bear Creek Bethel Missionary Baptist Church was dressed in red on Saturday, Sept. 12, as women filled the sanctuary for its fifth ‘Women in Red’ worship service, centered on the theme (Standing on the Promises of God).
The service opened with a selection by the guest choir, followed by an invocation led by Sis. Veronica Bishop of New Mt. Zion AME Church and a reading of the foundational scripture, Isaiah 41:10, presented by Mother Karen Peyton of New Covenant Holy Temple Church. The scripture reminded believers not to fear because God is with them and promises to strengthen and help them.
Sis. Gekettia Harris provided the welcome and occasion, connecting the event’s theme to the daily struggles people face and encouraging attendees to give their burdens to God.
“If you’re going through something, drop it in the creek,” Sis. Harris said, adding that even when burdens become overwhelming, “Jesus, the lifeguard at this creek, he can walk on water.”
Sis. Harris also tied the red attire worn by the women to the biblical account of the woman with the issue of blood in Mark 5:25-34, giving additional spiritual meaning to the day’s attire.
Following praise and song, Latrice Miller of Appointee Greater Life took the podium to introduce the featured guest speaker, Apostle Katabia Henry of Greater Life in Greensville, Florida.
Apostle Henry delivered a moving message focused on understanding God’s promises both collectively and individually, encouraging attendees to recognize scripture’s personal meaning in their own lives.
“You got to make it personal and say, ‘He talking to me,’” Apostle Henry said. She emphasized that believing in God’s promises requires action, adding, “We got to receive them and believe them, and walk according to them.” Throughout her sermon, Apostle Henry reminded the congregation that believers must continue trusting God during difficult and uncertain times.
The annual service also supported Bear Creek Bethel’s building fund. Proceeds from the program go toward the church’s goal of raising $100,000 by the end of the year, with the church currently approximately $14,000 away from reaching that milestone.
In the final remarks, Host Pastor Terrence D. Milton thanked Apostle Henry for her powerful message and encouraged the congregation to keep living according to God’s will.
“We got to continue to stand on the promises of God,” Pastor Milton said.
The service concluded with the congregation reflecting on a message of faith, perseverance, and trust in God’s promises.
