First Methodist Church observes Heritage Day

Huntingdon’s First United Methodist Church unearthed a time capsule, reviewed the church history and honored “Miss Lucy” Vickers who is retiring as youth director after more than 30 years during a morning outside service Sept. 27.

While the service was live streamed, over 125 people brought their folding chairs and picnic lunches, and sat under the large oak and pine trees, while singing old gospel songs and listening to pastor, Rev. Tim Atkins deliver a sermon on the Heritage Day celebration.

Contents of the 20-year-old time capsule that included photos of children and adult Sunday School classes and individual members, hand-written prayers, and special tokens, were placed on display for everyone to reminisce over and enjoy.

A new capsule was filled with items and placed inside the church. It will be opened in 2040.

The church also took the opportunity to express their admiration and gratitude to “Miss Lucy”, who who has always given of her time and energy to the MYF youth program at the church.

She has coordinated the Dinner with the Stars music program that raised funds for MYF trips to the beach, day camp through Easter Seals for children with disabilities, the Ronald McDonald House and St. Jude Research Hospital. She also assisted with mission trips which she says she will still continue to do.

Several spoke of the experiences they have enjoyed with “Miss Lucy” over the years. Among those were Elizabeth Lott, Gena Maddox, Braden Maddox, Becky Dodds and Lindsey Johnson who read a letter that the late Will Fisher had written about her.

Twin daughters Janna Luther and Joy Raines talked about special memories from “Miss Lucy’s “life. They used words like energetic, best green bean cooker ever, teacher, Christian, Lulu, dedicated, and mission trip planner to describe her.

Both said she had instilled in them to be “a giver.”

A flowering elm was planted outside the MYF room in her honor.

The pastor presented her with a treasure chest that contained cards and money gifts.

“Miss Lucy” spoke of her appreciation of being honored and told several humorous stories of her experiences over the years that had brought her much joy while working with the church youth.

It was noted the congregation has been in the present church building 50 years. Church members Paula Atkins and Clay Easley recounted some historical facts.

The special service concluded with picnic lunches.