By Deacon Lee Parker, SON Messenger
On Sunday, March 16, 2025, West Mastin Lake Baptist Church, located at 4705 West Mastin Road in Huntsville, Alabama, joyfully celebrated its 42nd Annual Church Anniversary. Though small, the church is known for its big heart and unwavering love for God.
The celebration was guided by the Master of Ceremony, Deacon Lee Parker, who opened the service with a heartfelt devotional. Sister Mary Woods followed with a warm welcome and shared the occasion’s significance.
The WMLBC choir ushered in the spirit of worship with powerful praise and song. Brother Luther Waites reflected on the church’s beginnings, honoring its foundation and legacy.
A touching Memorial Candle Lighting ceremony, led by Minister Patricia Parker and Sister Oleatha Waites, honored the memory of beloved members who have passed on. The choir returned, lifting the congregation with another round of soul-stirring music.
Pastor Willie L. Hinton, shepherd of West Mastin Lake Baptist Church, introduced the guest speaker, Minister Christopher Blanding of New Beginnings Christian Church in Huntsville. Minister Blanding, a native of Sumter, South Carolina, delivered a powerful and uplifting sermon titled “The Fight Is Worth It,” drawn from 1 Samuel 30:1-6. His message reminded believers that battles are a part of life, but they are not to be fought alone. Through prayer and reliance on the Lord, victory is assured—because the battle belongs to Him.
Minister Christopher Blanding of New Beginnings Christian Church is a Sumter, South Carolina native with over 25 years of leadership experience in education, athletics, and public service. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Education-English/African American Studies, magna cum laude, from Shaw University and an MBA in Public Policy from North Carolina State University.
Blanding serves as Director of Admissions and Head Boys Basketball Coach at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering. A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he is a devoted husband, father of six, and active mentor in the community.
Among the guests in attendance were members of the Delta Omega Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. from Huntsville, who joined the celebration in support and sisterhood.
Following the service, attendees gathered in the fellowship hall for a delicious down-home meal and warm fellowship, closing out a meaningful and spirit-filled anniversary celebration.