A PRELUDE TO THANKSGIVING-The Big Heart of Mountain Park First Baptist Church

By Doc Lawrence

Georgia Girls (L-R), Susan Cagle,
Annie Kelly & Sylvia Dodson

Before the mass exodus to join family and friends for Thanksgiving, a remarkable gathering was held at a  wonderful church on a good November Friday. Mountain Park First Baptist Church serves a greater community primarily composed of metro-Atlanta cities Stone Mountain, Lilburn and Snellville. They take community service and outreach seriously, evidenced by not only Sunday Services and weekday study groups but daycare and an unequaled wellness center in a world-class facility.

Here, all are welcome, including those who belong to other church congregations. There may even be visitors who have no church home but who find open arms when they take those baby steps into the better world of good physical and spiritual health.

With a few years of workouts there under my belt, the wellness center has become a big part of my life. I’m happy to proclaim that it is directly responsible for my being alive, a result of my efforts and their heartfelt prayers.

The Big Feast 

The feast brought us together dressed not in our usual workout apparel but finer wear. An assemblage of different people, notable for diversity in age, nationality, race and gender. Annie Kelly is from Mississippi with advanced quilt-making skills and a sense of humor that brings laughter on a cold rainy morning. Susan Cagle, a retired professional nurse, donates every Wednesday as a volunteer at a major hospital. Sylvia Dodson, dedicates her time and resources to Emory University’s research and support efforts regarding Alzheimer’s and dementia. 

Sharing a meal and conversation with such gifted and lovely people is a blessing. Here, in the deep South, dining together is a ceremony honoring friendship and love. The warm sharing paired perfectly with the food served.

Rev. Keith Savage Extends
a Greeting and a Prayer

On this day, Reverend Mike Savage described the church outreach to the homeless and impoverished elementary school children. Feeding them was a priority. The Sermon on the Mount resonated in the dining hall.

Susan Romano, the director of the Wellness Center which includes a first-rate Silver Sneakers program, was there to welcome everyone and salute those who brought turkey, ham, seasonal vegetables and the array of tempting desserts.

There was a meaningful prayer of thanksgiving, time to enjoy delights from myriad kitchens and share conversation. Departure was poignant. Many were headed to faraway places like the Florida Panhandle, New England or just across the state. They will be coming together for America’s great national feast celebrating all we hold dear with the bonus of food that often brings back priceless memories of a long departed mother's favorite sweet potato pie.

Happy Thanksgiving.

More information about Mountain Park’s exceptional Wellness Center:

Susan Romano, Director. sromano@mpfbc.net
More about the church: www.mpfbc.org