Mount Zion's gourmet chefs who cooked up the delightful 30th anniversary dinner on Saturday 18th October. L to R: (front) Julie McCormick, Ruth Frazer, Phyllis McCormick and Jenna Patterson. (back) Andrew McCormick, Angela Bryans and Warren Patterson.

MEMBERS past and present packed Mount Zion Free Methodist Church recently for a dinner to mark its 30th anniversary. Following the meal prepared and served by Ruth Frazer, Phyllis McCormick and her team of helpers, Christine McCormick accompanied by Elizabeth Campbell on piano sang, 'How lovely is Thy dwelling place.

Ronnie Nesbitt (Church Secretary) gave an interesting talk on the history of Mount Zion since the formation of the early congregation in 1969, the opening of the first church (a portable wooden structure) in February

1970, the present church in September 1978 and the new manse in August 2008. Describing the church as 'missionary minded' he spoke of the 28 church members who went to serve in full time Christian work in roles such as pastors and missionaries including founder member Billy Wright, now 81.

Emotional

In an emotional talk Mr. Wright recalled the early days of the congregation and gave thanks for the fellowship he enjoyed before going out to the mission field at 44 years of age.

The anniversary dinner commenced a weekend of Harvest Thanksgiving services. Pastor Nick Serb was the preacher at the morning and evening services on Sunday and the guest singers were Louise Watterson, Dorothy Smith and Ruth Miller.

The Rev Colin Meneely was the guest speaker at the service on Monday evening and the guest singer was Ruth Trimble.

Special guests at the harvest services included the Mayor Councillor Ronnie Crawford and Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson.

21/11/2008