Faith for the Future

Rev. Louis Hunter Jr., Pastor of New Hope AME Zion Church in Lewisville, North Carolina, gives a stirring message to his congregation on a recent Sunday morning. The banner behind him commemorates the church

New Hope AME Zion Church, in Lewisville, NC, celebrated its 125th Anniversary on Sunday, February 1. Members, friends and family, including Lewisville’s mayor and several town council members, came together to celebrate the church’s rich heritage.

The pastor, Rev. Louis Hunter Jr. and his gracious wife, Patricia, have only been at New Hope for about six months. Yet in such a short time, they seem to have plunged into the life of the church with hearts eager to serve.

The Day Unfolded

From the moment I stepped through the front door of the church, I felt surrounded by warm and hospitable folks. I was there to photograph the day’s events — the Sunday morning service, the luncheon and the anniversary celebration that would follow the luncheon. I hoped to convey with my photos the faith and warmth of that very lovely church family.

Many of the women, as well as some of the men and children, had coordinated their outfits by wearing red and black. Some of the ladies also wore hats that were quite delightful.

Following the Sunday morning service, church members served up quite a feast. The food was simply delicious!

The Anniversary Celebration

With pastors from other churches among the many celebrants, the Anniversary program included district and regional church officers who participated in the service. The Presiding Elder of the Winston-Salem District of the AME Zion Church, Rev. Dr. Calvin L. Miller, introduced the Bishop, Rt. Rev. George W. C. Walker Sr., who gave The Proclamation of God’s Word. The Bishop’s message encouraged the congregation to not only look back at how God had worked in their midst, but to continue to look forward in faith for what He will do in the future.

The Photos

I hope you’ll enjoy the photos of this special day. As you look through them, you’ll see moments of joy, love and laughter. You’ll also see moments of faith, reverence and supplication. (It’s too bad you can’t also hear the music that was provided by the Bethania AME Zion Church Choir — it was wonderful, too.)

Please visit the New Hope 125th Anniversary photo gallery to see photos of a very special day in the life of New Hope AME Zion Church. If any of the photos stir you, please share your thoughts by clicking on the Comment link below.