Page 10 - Florida Sentinel 7-16-21

Local SistersInChristMinistryHonors Centenarian With ‘Tokens Of Love’
The month of May proved to be a busy time of year for the Sisters in Christ Ministry of New St. Matthew M. B. Church. They held a Pre- Mother’s Day event in which they paid tribute to their Centenarian, Mother Bertha Edwards.
The event began with a road trip to Tubby’s Q & Smokehouse, in Zephyrhills, Florida. The ladies had the opportunity to fellowship with- out worrying about the time. They enjoyed chatting, singing songs and listening to the things Mother Ed- wards has experienced during her 100 years.
During the luncheon and Prayer Visit, Deaconess Rilla Henry, Servant Leader, presented Mother Edwards “tokens of love” from members of the Prayerline Ministry.
Deaconess Doris Barnum of- fered a soul-stirring prayer while all of their Prayer Warriors joined in as they ushered in the spirit with old familiar hymns.
“What a joyous time we had which brought tears of joy to our eyes. It was so rewarding just to be able to express our love and cele- brate our beautiful, loving, true woman of God and Centenarian, Mother Bertha Edwards. It is our prayer that she will have many more birthdays,” Deaconess Henry said.
Some of those in attendance were: Sisters Bettie Parker, Mary Williams, Delta Spencer, Mae Jackson, along with Dea- conesses Rilla Henry and Doris Barnum.
Sisters Bettie Parker, Mary Williams, Delta Spencer and Mae Jackson are shown on the front row. Shown on the back row are: Deaconesses Rilla Henry and Doris Barnum.
Deaconess Rilla Henry presented a love token to Mother Bertha Edwards. Mother Edwards proudly stated at the time that she was 100 years and 5 months old.
Deaconess Doris Barnum chats with Mother Edwards about some of her experiences in life. Mother Bertha Edwards cel- ebrated her 100th birthday on December 24, 1920.
PAGE 10-A FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021