The Journal: News of the Churches of God

Churches comply with Mr. Bush's request

By John Warren

BIG SANDY, Texas--In response to the request by President George Bush for a day of prayer and mourning in the aftermath of the worst terrorist attack in American history, many churches throughout the land conducted memorial services on or about Sept. 14.

In Big Sandy, on Friday, Sept. 14, about 100 people, including many who are not Church of God members, came to the Church of God Big Sandy's building to hear patriotic and religious music, prayers and Scripture readings pertinent to the terrorists' attacks and aftermath.

The COG Big Sandy's pastor is Dave Havir.

Don Walls of Gladewater and Betty Baird of Big Sandy read scriptures. Laura Kelley of Big Sandy sang two songs.

Lee Stolley and Ken Burgin, both of Big Sandy, and Jim Bald of Gladewater led the group in prayer.

Mr. Stolley is a member of the Big Sandy Police Department. Mr. Burgin is a member of Big Sandy's volunteer fire department.

Also among the local congregations honoring Mr. Bush's request was the United Church of God congregation that meets in nearby Gilmer, pastored by Roy Holladay.

In Gilmer, on the Sabbath of Sept. 15, the UCG's order of service was altered to allow for two "special music" presentations, both by vocalist Karen Pierce of Pritchett, Texas.

Mr. Holladay delivered a sermon in which he cited the events of Sept. 11 in New York and Washington, D.C. About 170 people attended.

Ellis Stewart of Big Sandy, a UCG member, said Mr. Holladay "gave a very moving message," speaking "of the need for compassion and love."

Also in Big Sandy, local Worldwide Church of God pastor David Orban led a memorial service in Big Sandy's First Baptist Church.

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