Special church service to be held in Smithfield
Two years ago, the people of Smithfield United Methodist Church were looking for a way to celebrate God in community and honor the volunteer firefighters and rescuers in Smithfield. This evolved into an annual worship service that both recognizes the people of the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department and those in surrounding areas, as it commemorates the lives of the men and women who were both rescuers and innocent victims on Sept. 11, 2001, in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. Officials said, “We gather together with people from the community of Smithfield and the surrounding areas to give thanks to God for the freedom we enjoy, for the men and women who sacrificed themselves in service and for those who today give of their time and talents to ensure our safety in our community.’
In the past, Smithfield firefighters were honored as their names were called out and a candle was lit. Last year, the firefighters lined up and each rang the church bell once in recognition of their service to the community.
This year, the service will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9. Members of the United Methodist Church will help lead worship and singing. The Rev. Karen Gray will give a short message and a special offering will be taken and donated to the local fire department. This year, the firefighters again will be individually honored as they receive recognition during the service, which is open to the community.
From left, front row: Ron and Jean Havner, Bob Weakland and John Brownfield along with, back row from left, Ray VanSickle, the Rev. Karen Gray and Roye Paul Leckemby of Smithfield United Methodist Church.