There is no such thing as retiring from the service of the Lord.
SPENCER – There is no such thing as retiring from the service of the Lord.
But the tradition in most Baptist churches is that as older members reach retirement age, younger members step in and take on leadership roles.
At Spencer Baptist Church, the demographics of the membership and vitality of many older members have created a somewhat unusual situation. The church grew rapidly in the middle of the last century and many of those members still carry a big load.
A downturn in membership during the past couple of decades contributed to the current situation, but young members Are now stepping forward as the church has begun to grow again.
This small rural church located in Union Parish has a large number of members who are 70 or older, about 10 who are past their 80th birthday, and four who are more than 90 years old.
Two of the church’s five deacons – Cona Spillers and Walter Thomas – are in their 90s. Spillers has served for many years as chairman of the deacon body.
Spencer Baptist Church was established Oct. 31, 1920. Its oldest member, 98-year-old Ida Mae Wilson, joined soon after the church was formed and was meeting in the Spencer Woodman of the World Hall.
In addition to Mrs. Wilson, 94-year-old Thomas and 92-year-old Spillers, active member Doris Popwell is 90.
A former long-term member, Aurual Spencer, is 98 and now lives in California.
Others who are in their 80s include Winfred Thoams, Cecil Oliver, Ossie Parks, Lois Spillers and E.L. Aaron.
Other senior members who have gone on to be with the Lord in recent years include Bobbie Thomas, Maureen Oliver and Buddy Thomas.
Glyn Ward, song leader for many years, was in his 80s when he had to retire a few years ago; he has since passed away.
A spurt of growth – welcomed by all, but especially those who have served a long time – has recently begun to rejuvenate the life of the church.
Edie Jones is now song leader and Cheryl Hilton continues to serve as pianist.
Pastor Billy Carter, a young 75-year-old, fits right in among the old and the young of this vibrant congregation.
Cona Spillers has led an effort to preserve the history of the church and community, and Spencer Baptist Church hosted the 100th birthday celebration of the Spencer community last year.
If the Lord tarries, the congregation will be ready and primed to celebrate its hundredth birthday when the day comes.
By then, some of the church’s hardy members may also have reached the century mark and will no doubt still be serving the Lord as their health allows.