By Betsy Finklea
Pastor John Bryant was honored for his 52 years as a pastor at Dillon Congregational Church at Pastor Appreciation Day on Sunday.
Bryant has preached over 11,000 sermons and led over 3,000 people to Christ.
The pastor and his wife, Sarah, were brought down front and pinned with corsages.
The first speaker was Chris Ray, nephew of Pastor Bryant. He called Pastor Bryant a role model, who was honest, transparent, and preaches from the King James Version of the Bible. He said he was thankful for his uncle, friend, and brother in Christ.
Robin Bryant Willoughby was the next speaker. She spoke about her mother, who she said as a pastor’s wife sits in the shadows while her husband sits in the light. She said her mother smiles in the face of obligation or emergencies and sends the pastor on his way to his flock to do his duties. Her mother listens to his visions and dreams for the church and remains a faithful servant who bears the burden with strength, humility, and compassion. She said her mother carries herself with grace and dignity, and she was proud to be her daughter. Following beautiful singing by the Adult Sanctuary Choir and a solo by Kelly Lovett, guest minister, Rev. Stuart Jacobs preached a powerful sermon on the topic “He Loved Me Enough to Be Late, But Right On Time.”
After the sermon and conclusion of the service, everyone enjoyed a feast in the John L. Bryant Gymtorium.
