Galveston’s West Point Baptist Church will celebrate its 139th anniversary at 10:15 a.m. Sunday at 3003 Ave. M. The theme will be “We’ve Come This Far by Faith, Let Us Celebrate Together.”
“People who have moved away always come home for the second Sunday in October because they know it’s anniversary at West Point on Sunday,” Freda Simpson, executive secretary, said. “We usually have a 4 p.m. service for this, but since we’re still in (Hurricane) Ike mode, we’ll have the service in the morning with a special speaker.”
West Point was spared major damage during Ike but did get some water in the sanctuary. The congregation will have dinner in the fellowship hall after worship. For information, call 409-762-5642.
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The 28th annual Island Oktoberfest will be from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Oct. 23 and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 24 at Galveston’s First Lutheran Church, 25th and Winnie streets.
The list of Oktoberfest attractions is up this year. It includes music, authentic German food, imported and domestic beers, lagers and ales, as well as arts, crafts and handmade gifts. An auction, prize raffle and children’s games also are on the schedule.
“We were originally known as the First German Lutheran Church and historically conducted services in German,” the Rev. Doug Guthier, the church’s pastor, said. “Many Germans came through Galveston on their way deeper into Texas.”
The event is more than just a party, Guthier said. Part of proceeds will help pay the mortgage on the Parish House, which includes a refurbished kitchen and other facilities.
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Martin Luther once said, “When God wants to speak and deal with us, he does not avail himself of an angel, but of parents, or the pastor, or of our neighbor.”
The long-running Friendswood Community Prayer Breakfast will honor pastors this month at 7:15 a.m. Oct. 17 at Calvary Chapel, 3700 FM 528.
“It’s pastor appreciation month,” organizer Carol Fulk said. “We’re privileged to have Ron Hindt, a godly man who is dedicated to the word of God and lives what he preaches. This breakfast will be focusing on faithful pastors.”
Hindt, once a Hollywood rock star, leads Calvary Chapel and has a radio ministry.
The suggestion donation to cover breakfast is $5. For reservations, call 713-408-4785.
Rick Cousins’ “Faith Focus” column appears each Saturday. Have a unique or unusual faith event to spotlight? E-mail details to ourfaith(at)galvnews.com at least two weeks in advance.
