A Day of Overwhelming Grace and Gratitude

Jun 30

Celebrating Rev. Tony Young, Sr. and First Lady Tammy Young’s First Pastoral Anniversary

Pastor and Lady Young pose for photos immediately after the first-year celebration program.

The First Pastoral Anniversary at Pleasant Hope was a powerful day of worship, joy, and heartfelt reflection. From the morning message to the final song, every moment honored the leadership of Pastor Young and First Lady Tammy with love and unity.

Morning Worship: A Spirit-Led Beginning

Rev. Gregory Buchanan of Mt. Calvary M.B. Church (Tutwiler) delivered a soul-stirring message that moved hearts and led five individuals to come forward for baptism and church membership—a beautiful testament to God's presence among us.

Afternoon Celebration: Honoring with Purpose

Rev. Joe Williams of Burrell Chapel in Falcon, Miss., Rev. Prez Jackson of Pleasant Grove in Crenshaw, Miss. and Rev. Robert Griffin of Powerhouse in Lambert, Miss.

The program opened in praise with Rev. Robert Griffin of Powerhouse M.B. Church blessing us in song and the Rev. Joe Williams of Burrell Chapel offering a powerful prayer.

Our engaging program guide, Rev. Prez Jackson, kept the celebration flowing with warmth and humor. Rev. L.C. Tyler, Jr., our dynamic guest speaker and Pastor Young’s cousin, delivered a message that echoed the choir’s moving selection, “I’m Still Holding On.” His words called us all to keep trusting in God.

Moments of Tribute and Remembrance

Sister Katina White gave a touching “Occasion,” honoring her late brother, Rev. Reginald G. Griffin, and expressing deep love for our current leaders.

After spending 14 days in the hospital, Sister Barbara Thomas has been on the road to recovery for the past few weeks. Her decision to share a heartfelt poem for First Lady Young—despite still healing—was a powerful testament to her faith and love for the church.

Music Ministry: Worship Through Song

Minister of Music Joel Ballard led the Voices of Hope choir in a musical journey of encouragement and celebration. His thoughtful song choices included “I’m Still Holding On,” led beautifully by Sister Tamara Jackson in her debut. Her emotional delivery ministered to many.

Joel and the Voices of Hope followed with “The Best Is Yet to Come”—an upbeat anthem of hope, symbolizing our journey forward as a church family.

Youth and Community Recognition

Brother Micah Pryor and Sister Zariyah Housely offered heartfelt tributes on behalf of our youth. We’re proud of their growth and the example they set.

We also thank the Quitman County District Association for their support and Senator Reginald Jackson for his touching words of encouragement.

Gratitude for Teamwork

This day would not have been possible without the vision and leadership of Sister Dorothy McCaskill, along with countless members who planned, decorated, cooked, sang, ushered, served, and more.

A special thank you to our Culinary Team, led by Alice Robinson and Tunya Wells, and our faithful deacons who ensured everyone left spiritually and physically full.

In Closing

This celebration reminded us who we are—a united church, serving a faithful God. Every effort, every voice, and every hand made this day unforgettable.

The best is yet to come.