The decades-long tradition continued this past Sunday at the Carroll County Tabernacle in North Carrollton on the banks of the Big Sand Creek with the Fourth of July Community Worship Service. This year the Carrollton and North Carrollton United Methodist churches were presenting the service with Rev. Ed Saunders, the Methodist pastor bringing the message. As always with choir and flags, both the Christian and American flags.
Growing up here, I have always had memories of these services, where our community comes together from different denominations in worship. These services have the patriotic spirit of this community, with participation through the years of people of all walks of life -- our veterans, Daughters of the American Revolution, and many more. When entering from either Carrollton or North Carrollton on Lexington Street or George Street, respectively, you will see the patriotism of the community with the display of American flags on the light poles.
There have been an abundance of ministers who have ministered over the years at the Tabernacle service that have left impression on this community. The names of Rev. Martin Smith, Rev. Tom Sorrell, and Rev. George Smith are just some of many pastors bringing the message at the Tabernacle. There was the dedication honoring Donnie Perkins for his years of service to the Tabernacle. Perkins led the Tabernacle board for many years.
These dedicated servants not only helped in carrying on the tradition of these worship services over the years, they helped build a foundation for generations to come.
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The purpose of celebrating the Fourth of July is to remember how our forefathers secured our freedom. The Fourth of July is also a time to remember our military men and women who have and are still sacrificing to maintain our everyday freedoms.
Through these sacrifices we are able to worship as a community like we did this past Sunday together in observance of Independence Day.
As we enter into the Fourth of July celebrations Thursday, keeping in mind that things change and that’s part of living; but this community worship service is a foundation of our community that has been an institution through the times and through generations.
Ken Strachan serves as the mayor of North Carrollton.
