HUNTSVILLE, AL — July 22, 2025 — The spirit of faith, unity, and reflection illuminated Blackburn Chapel on Thursday evening, July 17, 2025, as the Huntsville Presbyterial Missionary Society hosted its annual “Night in White” celebration. Themed “Sisters in Christ Building Bridges of Faith,” the service was a vibrant tribute to the power of fellowship and divine connection, guided by Psalm 36:9 — “For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light.”
Held at Blackburn Chapel Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America, located at 507 Plummer Road NW, the gathering welcomed a capacity crowd of community members, church leaders, and visiting congregants from across the region. The program was led by Reverend Tramaine D. Snodgrass, pastor of Blackburn Chapel and moderator of the Huntsville Presbytery, who offered warm greetings and spiritual insights throughout the evening.
A Service Steeped in Worship and Remembrance
The evening opened with spirited congregational singing and devotion, led by Mattie Smith of Mt. Zion and Pleasant Grove. Sister Barbara Pride of Madkins Chapel delivered the evening scripture, followed by soul-stirring musical selections, including “He’s Done Enough” performed by the Union Hill Choir, and “God’s Grace” during the memorial service conducted by Sister Georgette Moore.
Tithes and offerings were gathered during a reverent moment of giving, with Deaconess Genevia Hughes of Union Hill Church providing the offertory prayer.
Powerful Preaching and Moving Reflections
The service reached a spiritual crescendo as Dr. Veronica Winston of Mt. Zion introduced Reverend Dr. Perryn Rice, senior pastor of Lake Highlands Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) in Richardson, Texas, as the guest preacher. Rev. Dr. Rice delivered a powerful sermon titled “Rachel’s Tears,” drawing from Jeremiah 31:15. His message stirred deep emotions among attendees as he reflected on the enduring pain and hope of mothers, families, and believers in times of loss and restoration.
Following the sermon, the service extended an invitation to Christian discipleship and featured uplifting invitation music led by the choir and congregation.
Honoring Leadership and Legacy
The program continued with a special President’s Moment presented by Dr. Deloris Smothers, who serves as president of the Missionary Society. She was joined in leadership by:
Sis. Annie Harris – Vice President
Sis. Barbara Pride – Recording Secretary
Sis. Kartesa Hampton – Assistant Secretary
Sis. Edna Holley – Financial Secretary
Sis. Sallie Peebles – Chaplain
Sis. Georgette Moore – Assistant Chaplain
Reverend Tramaine Snodgrass returned to offer moderator reflections before the evening closed in song and benediction by Reverend Dr. Rice.