By Deacon Lee Parker, SON Messenger
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — On Sunday, August 24, 2025, West Mastin Lake Baptist Church honored Dr. Willie L. Hinton for 35 years of faithful pastoral leadership and the unwavering support of First Lady Dr. Doris Hinton. The celebration theme was “Preach the Word, be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2).
The service opened with the entrance of the honorees, escorted by Sister Mary Woods and Brother Joe Woods, followed by a devotion of songs and prayer led by Deacon Lee Parker. Brother Henry Hammond delivered a tribute on “Our Pastor’s Impact,” while Sister Shirley Johnson offered words of appreciation for First Lady Hinton. The WMLBC Senior Choir filled the sanctuary with songs of praise, and Sister Kimberly Collier shared a heartfelt poem in honor of the occasion.
The guest speaker was Reverend Derrick Sykes, Pastor of Zion P.B. Church in Quincy, Florida, and son of the late WMLBC Deacon Freddie Wychoff. His sermon, “You’re Not In This by Yourself” (Psalm 23:6), reminded Pastor Hinton, church leaders, and members alike that challenges, disappointments, and trials are part of leadership. Still, God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us remains constant.
The message deeply moved Pastor and First Lady Hinton as well as members, visitors, and friends in attendance.
In closing, Pastor Hinton expressed gratitude: “Without the support and prayers of WMLBC and the help of Almighty God, this day would not have been possible.”