By Alison James

Associate Editor

Food, prayers, songs and testimonials marked the 18th annual Lee County Clergy Appreciation Dinner.

Held Sept. 30, the dinner and ceremony at Greater Peace Baptist Church brought together representatives from more than 60 churches in Opelika and Lee County, along with attendees from the numerous sponsors.

“It’s like family coming together,” said event organizer Jean Causey. “We are truly blessed to live in a community that recognizes the value and importance of worship, family and friends.”

Prayers and testimonials were offered by multiple people, and special songs were sung to commemorate and honor the clergy members and their families.

“God does do miracles when he chooses to do them,” said Pastor Clifford Jones of Greater Peace Baptist Church, sharing a testimony about God’s healing power.

The event honored the following married clerical couples who have been married 50 years or more: Rev. and Mrs. W.F. Smith, Dr. and Mrs. Wayne Ivey, Rev. and Mrs. Larry Presley, Rev. Betty and Carey McCain, Rev. and Mrs. Jim Dykes, Rev. and Mrs. Leonard Bryant, Rev. and Mrs. Lorne Sutton, Rev. and Mrs. Gerald Sykes, Dr. and Mrs. Jerrell McNutt, Rev. and Mrs. Jerry Hunt and Dr. and Mrs. A.L. Wilson.

Also recognized was each minister attending, according to his or her years in the ministry.