You Must Remember So You Never Forget …

And as the children sat around listening, the elder told them the story of a people who were revered because they had done great things. He told of how they were the harvesters of many crops, their people never went hungry. He told them of how their people were stolen because of their crops and great skills and strength and beauty.

He spoke of their ancient history and their strong families. Mothers taught their daughters how to care for themselves, their husbands and their children. Fathers taught their sons what they needed to know to become great men. They taught them how to make tools, hunt and build houses. They carried their sons with them to trade with people of different villages. The men taught their sons that they were protectors of the women, the elders and the children. They told them that women were to be protected because they carried the unborn children in their bodies. If the women died there would be no place for unborn children and no more people. Fathers taught their sons that elders were to be protected because they were the wisdom and remembrance of the village. The elders taught the young how to respect their world and guided the adults in knowing their own wisdom. If the elders died the village would lose its way. Fathers taught their sons that children were to be protected because they were the future village. If the children died there would no longer be a village.

He spoke of the people whose royal lineage could be traced back for untold generations by the storytellers. He spoke of how they traded with people from lands that were across the deserts, over the mountains and on the other side of the sea. The old one told them of the skills of their people, and of how they made all of their tools from what the earth provided for them. They knew of no waste. He told of how strong the people were before strangers they invited to live among them killed many of the men; raped the women: and carried the children across the ocean and enslaved them. What happened to the ones who remained behind, asked one of the children? "They became pretenders," said the old one. "They pretended to be like the strangers who pretended to be like them."

"And the ones who were carried across the waters, what happened to them?" "They were the strongest of the people," the old one said, "They fought hard and after many years they freed themselves of their captors' chains. They became members of the society they were forced to build. They opened schools, educated themselves, built businesses and fed their families the same way they did when they were in their home land." "But why can't we see them now?" said a little one. "Because they integrated," was the answer given. One of the children asked, “What does integrate mean?" "It means they mixed with the strangers who kidnapped them until they disappeared, child." "Do you mean they are all gone now grandfather?" “Where do you think they are?" he asked. The children looked at each other as they pondered the question. A boy stepped forward and said, "I believe they are still here."

"I believe that as long as we remember them they will be here," said the youngest one. "But how can we remember them if no one tells us about them?" An older boy stood and said, “We must remember them." 'Why have they been forgotten? We must bring them out of the forgetfulness of our mothers and fathers. We must go to the places where the stories are still told. We must find the few who remembered to remember them. We must tell our children about them." The elder said, "You are right, but you must also do more. You must write, talk, sing and teach about who you are. You must house the sacred memories of your greatness inside of you and continue to add honor to it. You are bound to make sure that the stories you tell are stories of truth and integrity. Don't walk away. If you do the strangers will take your ways and make them theirs. Then they will return them to you as theirs for a high price. You must remember so that you never forget." "We will remember them because they are us," said a girl. "And we will go across the waters and bring back memories to those who want to remember over there," she said. The elder smiled. "The prophets said you would be the ones to return the people to themselves," he said. "And so it is."

Deeds show that Sardis Baptist Church was established in 1880 by Deacon Stephen Jack Talley, Deacon Sam Bostick and Deacon Alexander James Tanner.

Deacon Talley was the oldest of four children. He had two brothers, Milton and Homer, and one sister named Ida. He came to Kennesaw from Paulding County where he was founder of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church. He was also an ordained deacon. He married a young woman by the name of Mahalia. From this blessed union, they bore 14 children. One of their children was a girl by the name of Lena; she was baptized by Rev. Decatur and was a faithful worker at Sardis Baptist Church. Deacon Talley lived to see all but three of his children join Sardis. Lena was the mother of Gussie (Roberts) Brock. Gussie Brock was a member of the Mother’s Board and a Deaconess until her death in 1994. She was also the mother of eight children – four boys and four girls. Her oldest son, James Brock, is a deacon and assistant church clerk and her daughter Violet (Brock) Brown is church clerk and serves on the usher board. All of her children, except two, are members of Sardis.

The founding fathers purchased a plot of farmland from G.T. Carne and built a frame church at Sardis' present site. At the time, Kennesaw's already large Black population was increasing dramatically as railroad workers came into the city to help add on to the existing rail lines. During that period, Sardis attracted such a large congregation that there was usually standing room only on Sunday mornings. On those days, they opened the windows of the church so that the people that couldn't get into the church could lean into the windows and listen to the service. This must have been the only Black church at the time, because it was often called "The Colored Baptist Church." "Note Singing" is said to have started here at Sardis.

Rev. W.F. Strickland was the first pastor of Sardis. Professor B.J. Graves joined the church under his pastorate and was almost totally responsible for overseeing the very first church building as well as the small school house, which one can still see the remains of in the field behind what is now the Fellowship Hall (1996). The original church building and school house was painted white and blue.

Professor Graves’ residence on Rocky Street (later named Harris Street), now called Moon Station Road, was also painted the same colors. Professor Graves worked for the railroad, and when he was away, his wife would take over classes at the school, which went to eighth grade. After much research, no documentation on his wife's name was found and it is believed that they had no children. They later moved to Atlanta but would come to Sardis at least once a month and leave behind a generous donation. Professor Graves died on April 27, 1956.

In 1918, Rev. W.P. Johnson became pastor of Sardis. In his first year, 25 new members were baptized. Old baptism photographs show hundreds of church members crowding the shores of the pond at King's Wigwam, a Black-owned summer resort in Kennesaw during the turn of the century. Our own Mother Willie Lewis was born on August 14, 1906. In the photo, she was the first one baptized that day by Rev. Johnson, and her brother, Burrel Bryant, was the last one to be baptized that day. Mother Lewis was 12 years old when she was baptized. She died October 31, 1999.

In the 1920's, Rev. J.H. Cunningham became Pastor. Brother W.T. Talley, son of founder Deacon S.J. Talley, was Sunday school superintendent. W.T. was baptized into the membership of Sardis in 1900. He also served as the church clerk, janitor and Sunday School Teacher. Brother R.L. Summerour was baptized by Rev. Cunningham. He was an active member until his death in 2001. R.L.'s sister, Etta Mae (Summerour) McAfee was also an active member of Sardis and served as president of the senior usher board. Deacon Sam Bostick and Deacon A.J. Tanner continued to provide their support and assistance to the church. Money was very tight at this time, but the congregation and pastors continued to add to the church. Rev. Barber, Rev. J.G. Decatur, Rev. Alexander and Rev. W.B. Bivins all served as pastors during the 1920’s.

Hard times came during the Depression – jobs became scarce and unemployment sent many African-Americans into Atlanta to look for work. In the early 1930's, Rev. Lewis Barber was the pastor. This was during the time that  the original church building burned up in a fire started in a potbelly stove. Nearly all of the church records were destroyed.

Brothers Eddie and Eugene Hill helped to rebuild the church in the same spot in 1932. The neighboring community also pitched in to help rebuild Sardis. The white frame building served as the main church until 1973, when the present brick building was erected. Then the white frame building served as the Fellowship Hall until August 1997.

Brother Eddie Hill joined Sardis in 1931 under Rev. Barber's pastorate. He was born September 4, 1914. He was married to Mirtha (Kilgore) and they had five children: Odene, Joe (deceased), Mayzelle, Marvin and Patricia.

Rev. L.M. Buggs came to Sardis on the first Sunday in October 1939. He became the active pastor the first Sunday in August 1940. Under his matchless leadership, church enrollment grew from 56 members to 109. The church building was remodeled, adequately insured, and several deacons were ordained. The first choir was officially formed in 1940. Sardis greatly progressed under Rev. Buggs’ leadership. Here’s information about some of the church officers at the time.

John W. Ellis, affectionately known as "Pa Ellis," was baptized by Rev. W.H. Lowe in 1900 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Flippin, Ga. In 1915 he joined Sardis under the pastorate of Rev. Green Berry Hardin. During the pastorate of Rev. Barber, he was set aside as a deacon aide and was ordained as a deacon in June 1941 by Rev. Buggs.

Cissero G. Kellogg was baptized by Rev. L.H. Barber in 1924 and was ordained as a deacon in 1938 by Rev. S.A. Alexander.

Archie A. Peeples was baptized by Rev. J.H. Cunningham and ordained as a deacon by Rev. S.A. Alexander in 1938.

O.B. Lester, who was baptized at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Marietta, Ga., by Rev. A.V. Williamson, was ordained as deacon at Mt. Calvary. He served as a deacon under Rev. Buggs.

Sam Pickens, baptized by Rev. J.H. Cunningham in 1923, was ordained as a deacon in June 1941 by Rev. Buggs.

Angeline Daniels was baptized at Sardis by Rev. Johnson. She moved to Pennsylvania for a few years and upon her return, she reunited with Sardis under Rev. Buggs’ pastorate. She served as church treasurer.

Galda Tanner, who was baptized by Rev. G.B. Hardin, served as the Sunday school superintendent under Rev. Buggs.

Professor B.J. Graves joined Sardis under the pastorate of Rev. W.F. Strickland. He was elected clerk of the Kennesaw Association in 1905 and held this office for more than 40 years.

Vivian Victoria (Glass) Ellis, affectionately known as "Ma Ellis," was united with the Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Flippen, Ga., in 1899 under the administration of Rev. W.H. Lowe. She joined Sardis in 1912 under Rev. G.B. Hardin. She was the church clerk and president of the Women's Missionary Society.

Additional members joining under the pastorate of Rev. Buggs include: Sis. Annie Lee Scudders, Sis. Odessa Stephens, Sis. Angeline Daniels, Sis. Louise Stephens, Sis Helen Scudders, Sis. Hattie Pearl Summerour, Sis. Ruby Stephens, Bro. Wilbert Daniel, Bro. Dee Daniel, Bro. John Henry Brooks, Bro. Eugene Hill, Bro. Roger Hill, Bro. Grady Daniel, Bro. Elmer Daniel, Sis. Juanita Daniel, Sis. Hester Brooks, Sis. Mildred Brooks, Sis. Irene Redding, Sis. Mary Lee Redding, Sis. Lillian Redding, Sis. Mamie Redding, Sis. Annie Slocum, Sis. Bettie Joe Scudders, Sis. Easter Brooks, Sis. Ruth Mae Brooks, Bro. Wash Shaw, Bro. Roy Gibbs, Bro. George Evans, Dea. N.H. Milsap, Sis. Rosa Lee Kellogg, Sis. Fannie Mae Kellogg, Sis. Irene Hill, Sis. Mary Redding, Sis. Annie Mae Scudders, Sis. Frances McBride, Bro. Robert Stephens, Bro. John Henry Lester. Bro. Leon Parker, Bro. Bud Furr, Sis. Fannie Summerour, Dea. Lester, Bro. Richard Roberts, Bro. W.J. Pickens, Bro. J.R. Roberts, Bro. Roy Gibbs, Sis. Evelyn Brooks, Sis. Mattie (Asberry) Standifer.

Sardis’ next pastor was Rev. Y.L. Davenport. He died during his service as pastor of Sardis. Under his leadership, the youth choir and junior choir were organized. Some members who joined under him included, Odene Hill, Joe Hill, Mayzelle Hill, Eddie Marvin Hill, Lena (Asberry) Bacon, Miles Burge, James Brock, and Homer Burge.

Rev. Weems was called as the next pastor. During his tenure, restrooms were added as well as carpeting and pews. In 1962, Odis and Vonnie Brookins joined under Rev. Weems’ pastorate after moving to Kennesaw from Acworth. Other members that joined the church at that time included: Patricia Hill, Violet (Brock) Brown, Joann Summerour, Annette (Brock) Benson, Juanita Summerour, Sharon McAfee, Michelle Bostic (Meeks), Barbara Byrd, Judy Marchman and Betty Marchman.

On January 7, 1964, Rev. Ellis Bostick was called to the pastorate of Sardis. He served for more than 27 years. Ellis Bostick was born July 30, 1908, the sixth of ten children born to Clara (Strickland) Bostick and Deacon Sam Bostick, one of Sardis’ founding fathers. He was baptized at Sardis in 1923 by Rev. J.H. Cunningham. He joined the United States Army in 1944 and served in the Reserves until 1964. Rev. Bostic later joined the Boy Scouts of America and became a Scoutmaster in 1951. Sardis was granted a Pack Charter under his leadership. Ordained in 1955 by Rev. Walter Weems of First Corinth Baptist Church in Atlanta by the Cabin Creek Association, Rev. Bostic attended and completed his religious studies at Carver Vocational Bible Institute.

His preaching and teaching was not confined to the pulpit. He was a community leader, a lifetime member of the Kennesaw Missionary Baptist Association, a volunteer at Grady Memorial Hospital and recipient of numerous awards and recognitions.

Rev. Bostick’s brother, Ted Bostick, served under him as chairman of the Trustee Board until his death. On June 16, 1966, four Deacon’s Aides were selected: Homer Burge, Odis Brookins, James Brock and Edward Burge. Deacons who served under Rev. Bostick were Hugh Byrd, George Kemp, John Ellis, U.V. Lester, Miles Burge, Jr., D.C. Asberry, Dock Lay, Archie Peeples, Willie Lewis, Willie Asberry and William Burge. Rev. Bostick licensed and ordained Rev. Homer Burge (1974), Rev. Hugh Byrd (1974), and Rev. Timothy Mackey (1991).

Records show that on December 16, 1965, the board voted to build a new church. Our present church was completed during Rev. Bostick’s pastorate and the first service was held inside in 1973. In March 1984, a dedication service was held and a cornerstone was installed.

Under Rev. Bostick’s leadership, the Junior Usher Board was formed in 1989 with the following members: April Bostic, Kimberly Hill, Tavoris Bostic, and Eddie Byrd. Philip Smith and Laureisha Burge joined shortly before Rev. Bostick’s retirement. The youngest member to join at that time was Daniel Smith – he was only five years of age. Also under his pastorate, the Women's Mission, Junior Mission, Junior Choir, E.B. Gospel Choir, Mother Board, Deaconess and Brotherhood were all established.

Other members joining under Rev. Bostick included: James C. Alexander, Ola Burge, Michelle Grant, Hester Holland, Ann Austin, Hugh Byrd, Michelle Bostick, Marcia Hill, Minnie Barrows, Bobie Byrd, James Byrd, Mildred Brooks, Debbie Byrd, Evelyn Brooks, Anirs Burge, Bertha Johnson Brooks, Cheryl Burge, Randy Knox, Larry M. Bowens, Robyn E. Ballenger, Dorothy Bowens, Willie H. Burge, Frank Evans, Michall Burge, Haroldreal Evans, Bill Looper, Linder J. Burge, Kenneth P. Duke, Jonnie E. Burge, Marie Duke, Glenda Looper, Kenneth R. Duke, Lorenzo Looper, Felecia Gale Burge, Derrick L. Duke, Sandra Looper, Michael R. Burge,  Marcus D. Duke, Kenneth Looper, Willie Burge, Jr., Loura Florence, Lovalla Grant, James Burge, Roosevelt Standifer, Darlene McGuire, Bryant McGuire, Floyd Redding, Jr., Cynthia Wylie, Herbert McGuire, Clarence Redding, Susan Wylie, Kenneth Redding, Kenny Wylie, Betty Marchman, Eric Redding, Charles Woodman, Judy Marchman, Patricia Redding, Keith Wright, Vickie Wright, Harriet Petty, Tony Redding, Robyn Petty, Marilyn Redding, Mary Summerour, Wylene Roberts, Lucy Standifer, Shirley Standifer, Dorothy Stephens, Donna Standifer, Christopher Hill, Kimberly Hill, Marcus Duke, Eddie Byrd, Tom Singleton, April (Bostic) Bowen, Marlene (Rush) Mackey, Irene Rush, Timothy Mackey, Joy Smith, Philip Smith, Myra (Burge) Whatley.   There are recollections of one Easter Sunday when Rev. Bostick baptized 15 children!

Rev. Bostick retired from Sardis in June 1991.

On Friday, March 6, 1992, Rev. Thomas James was selected as the new pastor. Born and raised in Kingston, Ga., he was the third child of Levi and Opehlia James. He has three sisters and nine brothers. Rev. James was baptized at Shiloh Baptist Church in Kingston by Rev. R.L. Henley.

Rev. James graduated from Carver Bible Institute in 1991. He served as pastor at Greater Mt. Olive Baptist Church (1980-1983) and Second Baptist Church (1982-1990). He was assistant pastor of Saint Peter’s Baptist Church until he accepted the pastorate at Sardis.

He married Juanita (Tinch) in 1980. They have four children. They reside in Cartersville, Ga. Both Rev. and Mrs. James are active in the civic community. In addition, Mrs. James owns James Church Supply Inc., in Kingston.

During his first two years of service at Sardis, 27 members were added including: Eloise Sandifer, Larmel Woods, Morgan Woods, Sue Milnder, Pinkie Moore, Robert Smith, Tony Whatley, Juanita James, Debra Smith, Tyreese Moore, Robert L. Smith, Akela Wells, Willie Smith, Jonathan Blair, Jerrodd Hill, Amanda Blair, Kenya Stelle, Tammy Harris, Larisha Merriwether (infant dedication), Mildretta Penn, JoAnn Williams, Gloria Miley, Everett Miley, Lewis Smith, Daniel Smith, Robin Chigumira and Ishmael Chigumira.

Rev. James ordained James Brock as a deacon on September 18, 1993. Associate Minister Melvin Black was also ordained under his leadership.

During Rev. James’ tenure, new sanctuary lights were added and the interior and exterior of the church was painted. The Nurse's Guild, Pastor's Aide Club and Men's Fellowship were also established.

In 1994, we were blessed with a new musician - RoseSharon Runner as well as new Associate Minister Rev. George Warren. Thirteen new members joined during this time: Jeraldine Ayers, Patsy Carter, Bobby Patmon, Nitrinda Reynolds, Jimmy Reynolds, Andrean Montgomery, Sonya Albert, Aneisha Newell, David Montgomery, Demetrius Daniel, Antonio Hines, Anthony Daniel and Darrius Daniel. We were saddened by the loss of three members: Mary (McGuire) Burge, Gussie (Roberts) Brock, and Joe Roberts. We were elated for the births of three infants born to our members: Demetrius Turant Hardy, Markena Rutledge and Jarius Lee Blackwell.

During 1995-1996, 23 people were joined Sardis: Chikita Brown, Josellen Smith, Floyd J. Redding, Jabbar Daniels, David Boyd, lesha Daniels, Jabari Mackey, Tivice Rush, Sandra Rush, John L. James, Rev. Mark Smith, Justin Redding, Annette Davis, Chynna Davis, Judith Lewis, Latrice Lewis, Blanche Lewis, Martin Lewis, Annette Baker, Johnny Burge, Virginia Standifer, Tonisha Lewis and Quinetta Blow.

In addition, a new roof was installed and a set of drums were purchased. We also hired a new drummer, Ager Cheely.

The Sardis Women's Missionary Society had its organizing meeting on April 20, 1996. Mary James was elected president, Virginia Standifer, vice president, Mildretta Penn, secretary, Eloise Sandifer, treasurer and Marlene Mackey, corresponding secretary. The society’s mission statement read: “The Sardis Women's Missionary Society will, through the power of the Holy Spirit, strive to bring the good news of salvation through Christ Jesus to the lost and unsaved, and offer those in the body of Christ as well as those seeking to find relief in difficult times. The society’s objective: Establishing a program for winning souls, making Bible study and prayer an integral part of our daily living, attending Sunday School, Bible study, and regular worship service with the intent of fostering spiritual growth for the glory of God; assisting the needy, elderly, lonely and lost, at home and abroad, supporting local, state and national outreach mission work as time and resources allow. Study programs now include Bible study, Sunday School and "The Worker" educational lessons.

Several other committees were formed at this time such as the Men's Fellowship and Saints With A Testimony (SWAT).

On June 30, 1996, Sardis was blessed with new musicians. Robert Bridges was hired as the organist and Keldrick Hardeman as drummer.

In 1997, two Associate Ministers – Rev. Mark Smith and Rev. Melvin Black – came to Sardis. In addition, Rev. Hugh Byrd put up partitions in the back of the church to facilitate the use of this space for classrooms. That year, two educational scholarships were awarded to Rev. Melvin Black and Sis. LaTina Louis.

In January 1998, new carpeting was installed in the sanctuary as a result of a campaign that was spearheaded by Sis. Sarah Byrd. Sis. Claudia McGuire and Bro. Walter McGuire worked diligently to help remove the old carpeting and pews. During this time, Deacon James Brock extended the pulpit by four feet. Bro. Bill Looper and several member volunteers helped to clean and stain all of the woodwork on the pews. Afterwards, new cushions were added to the pews and the pulpit chairs were also covered to match the new blue carpeting.

In April 1998, the Transportation Committee (formerly known as the Recycling Committee) was formed, setting the wheels in motion to purchase transportation for the church. During the July, 1998, Church Conference, the motion to purchase a bus was presented and passed. At that time, the Transportation Committee's name was changed to the Bus Ministry.

After a lot of praying, fundraising, recycling and pure dedication, the Transportation Committee finally reached its goal July 27, 1998. The committee raised enough money for a down payment on a 1992, 20-passenger bus. The bus would allow the church to increase Sunday School and morning service attendance, and provide travel accommodations for the congregation to travel as a unit to other church functions. Once the bus was dedicated on August 23rd, Sardis members set out on their first bus trip to Second Baptist Church in Summerville, Ga.

The church received final building plans in October 1998 for the new Fellowship Hall that was to be erected in the rear of the sanctuary. The old building was torn down in August 1997 by the McGuire Construction Company. In November 1998, the lot was graded by Brook Willie Contracting. By this time, the Promise Keepers and the Church Builders had volunteered to provide the labor and help us in every aspect of constructing the new building.

Membership for 1997-1998 grew by 20 with the following members: Alma Johnson, Sarah Byrd, Erin Byrd, Corey Ritchie, Lisa Mason, Michael Mason, Mary Cook, Zakiiya Mackey, Jordan Daniels, Micole Mason, Keldrick Hardemon, J.C. Ruffin, Debra Hall, Kiana Jackson, Paul Oyename, Iris Daniels, Wanella Bell, Mimi Walker, Rosine Hudson and LaTina Louis.

During 1999-2000, there were many notable events at Sardis.

·         Work had begun on the new Fellowship Hall. The new building would measure 40'x 80' with two stories, when completed.

·         The Women's Missionary Society was busy visiting the sick and shut-in and involved in other outreach ministries.

·         Church volunteers fed the hungry at the MUST Ministries in Marietta, Ga., every other month.

·         The women of the church traveled to Cedine Ministries in Spring City, Tenn., for a spirit-filled retreat in October 1999.

·         Pam Moorman became our pianist/musician. She worked diligently with the Youth Choir.

Rev. James left his role as Sardis’ pastor on August 9,1999. Rev. Homer Burge served as interim pastor from October 1999 until May 2000.

New members for 1999 were: J'nea Woods, Valerie Yates, Eleanor Yates, Edward Yates, Jennifer Davis, Erica Zackery, Christopher Ball, Claudette Hercules, Ava Ball, Javed Price, Ebony Ball and Claudia Grace. Our deceased members during that year were Mother Willie Lewis and Sis. Wanella Bell.  

Rev. James Garfield Wright, Jr., was voted in as pastor on May 5, 2000. He was installed on July 9, 2000. He brought with him the love and support of his family – Sheliah (wife), and their four children, Kizzy, Sheree, Katherine and Glenn. Rev. Wright’s father, James Wright, Sr. (Mother is deceased) and friend, Mary Finley are faithful friends of Sardis.

Rev. Wright was born and raised in Rome, Ga. He was baptized at the age of eight at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Rome. He was ordained by Rev. Lewis Clark and licensed in 1996. During his first five months of leadership at Sardis, church membership grew by 15 people.

During the annual Church Conference, following Rev. Wright’s installation as pastor, he requested that all church officers remain in place. However, Bro. Eddie Hill retired as church treasurer and his daughter, Patricia Hill, was elected to take his place. Franklin McGuire, Mayzelle Hill, Patricia Hill and Valerie Yates were added as trustees and Roscoe Campbell was set aside as a deacon. 

Sardis welcomed the following new members in 2000-2001: Marquese Scott, Roscoe Campbell, Jegenna Hudgins, Finis Hudgins, Lisa Ward, Sheila Ibanga, Tia Kimble, Kaszmere Reynolds, Jerry Nelson, Timothy Ritchie, Lionel Woods, Alicia Woods, Kim Graziano, Rodney Bremington, Jamie Thomas, April Copeland, Jacinda Davis, Lakakha Ivey, Yolanda Davis and Mary Cook. The sick and shut-in at the time were: Mary Summerour, R.L. Summerour, Lizzie McGuire, Etta Mae McAfee, Nina Bostic, Parazie Redding, Rev. Ellis Bostick and Joe Hill. We mourned the passing of members Odis Brookins (May 2000) and Rex Strong (January 2001).

In 2000-2001, Phase II of the building project was completed. The building was 90 percent bricked in and the windows and doors were installed. The parking lot was graded and new electrical and plumbing were installed in the new building.

During 2001-2002, the final phase of the building project had begun. Six classrooms were already dry walled, the outside bricks were completely installed and the cornice boards were put up. Once completed, the building had six classrooms, the Pastor’s study and a lounge on the upper level. The Fellowship Hall, kitchen, two bathrooms and storage were located on the lower level.

On July 22, 2001, Rev. Wright ordained Rev. Sandy Bullock as a minister as well as ordained two deacons: Terrence Royster, Sr., and Roscoe Campbell.

The AWANA program was started September 12, 2001 with the objective of reaching boys and girls with the Gospel of Christ. The program’s main textbook is the Bible.

The Sardis family traveled to several churches in and around Georgia like Cedartown, Rome, Cartersville, Marietta and Smyrna. We also traveled to Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon, Ill., November 17-18, 2001.

New members for 2001-2002 were: T-Air Austin, Dea. Terrence Royster, Sr., Denise Royster, Jamell Royster, Terrence Royster Jr., Kyle Royster, Kelvin Morgan, Tracey Morgan, Whitney Ellis, Shyrece Ellis, Margo Webb, Tynesia Harper, Eddie Harper, Bertha Harper, Darchelle Stokes, David Frazier, Marylin Newsome, Pauline Miller, Dea. Moses Stokes, Mary Stokes, Carolyn Harmon, Donna Flanagan, Carmen Jones, Wesley Stokes and Rev. Donald Patterson. R.L. Summerour (June 2001) and Parazie Redding (February 2002) both passed away in that time period. Two infants were born into our church: Tristan Emmanuel Wright (10-01-01) and Christian Alexandria Hill (08-03-01) .

During 2003-2004, the Sardis Missionary Baptist Church family was tremendously blessed with the completion of the Fellowship Hall and the imminent completion of the sanctuary brought much joy to the congregation. Work on the Fellowship Hall had begun back in April 1999. The new addition included a reception hall, fully-equipped kitchen, several classrooms, the pastor's study, restrooms and new furnishings. Improvements to the sanctuary included the removal of the old wood paneling, new dry wall, carpeting, canned lights, vents, stained glass windows and a new thermostat system. In addition, the restrooms were moved to the front of the church in the vestibule, the baptismal pool was moved (so everyone would have a better view of a baptism), and the pulpit and choir stand was remodeled and enlarged. The sanctuary now had a new sound and video system that could be programmed into the television located in the Fellowship Hall.

Our membership continued to grow steadily. New members during that time included: Juan Acostas, Henry Deck, Kendria Flanagan, Gregory Harris, Daniel Holiday, Camera Lawrence, Anthony Long, Breuna Milnder, Tanisha Milnder, Tracy Pennamon, John Randall, Ashley Roberts, Michael Roberts, Sr., Michael Roberts, Jr., Yvette Roberts, Antonio Rucker, Ella (Brown) Rush, Russell Rush, Ryan Stokes, Na'Cole Tilson, Natalie Tilson, Nathaniel Tilson, Verlene Tilson, Jasmine White, Deborah Williams, Jade Williams and Zona Williams.

Church Officers for 2003-2004 were: Clerk: Dea. James Brock, Secretary: Sis. Denise Royster, Assistant Secretary: Sis. Marlene Mackey, Treasurer: Sis. Pat Hill, Financial Secretary: Mother Eleanor McGuire, Sunday School Superintendent: ­Dea. Finis Hudgins, Council President: Sis. Violet Brown, Youth Director: Sis. Marcia Hill, Senior Usher President: Mother Mayzelle Hill, Combined Choir President: Sis. Deborah Williams, Women's Mission President: Mother Mary Stokes, Brotherhood President: Bro. Shawn Moore, Sr., Mother Board President: Mother Mattie Standifer, Chairman of Deacon Board: Dea. Terrence Royster, Sr., Chairman of Trustee Board: Dea. Myles Burge, Jr.

Trustees: Dea. Myles Burge, Jr., Sis. Patricia Hill, Mother Mayzelle Hill, Dea. James Brock, Dea. Terrence Royster, Bro. Eddie Hill, Bro. Franklin McGuire.

Deacons: Terrence Royster, Sr., Myles Burge, Jr., Finis Hudgins, Roscoe Campbell, James Brock, Moses Stokes, Shawn Moore, Sr., (in training).

Mother Board: Mattie Standifer, Vonnie Brookins, Eleanor McGuire, Mary Summerour, Lillian McGuire, Mayzelle Hill, Irene Rush, Eleanor Yates, Agnes Bullock, Mary Stokes, Alma Johnson, Claudia McGuire.

Musicians:  Sis Pam Moorman, Bro. Robert Bridges.

As we celebrated our 125th Anniversary during the 2004-2005 year, we had much to be thankful for. With the completion of the our Fellowship Hall and the renovation of the sanctuary, it was time to give special thanks to all of our visionaries and to those who provided dedicated stained glass windows and doors, church furnishings, exterior painting and those who undertook the task of cleaning up the church after the renovations. We gave glory to God for all of our volunteers and contributors including: Rev. & Mrs. James Wright, Jr. and family, Rev. Homer Burge, Min. Virginia Standifer and family, Rev. Thomas James and family, Dea. & Mrs. Finis Hudgins, Dea. & Mrs. Moses Stokes, Dea & Mrs. Terrence Royster, Sr., and family, Dea. Dan Holiday, Dea. James Brock, Dea. Myles Burge, Jr., and family, Dea. Roscoe Campbell, Dea. Willie Asberry (deceased), Mother Agnes Bullock, Mother Alma Johnson, Mother Claudia McGuire, Mother Lillian McGuire, Mother Mattie Standifer, Mother Mayzelle Hill, Mother Vonnie Brookins, Mr. & Mrs. Herbert McGuire and family, the Yates family, Eddie Hill and family, Sis. Nina Bostic, Elnora & Ray Defurr, Franklin McGuire, James G. Wright, Sr., Margaret Hodge and family, Mary Finley, Darlene McGuire, Mr. & Mrs. David Jones and family, the Brock-Brown family, Bill Looper, Charles McGuire (deceased), John McGuire, Lloyd Platt and Gilbert Young.

Under Rev. Wright’s leadership, we welcomed 56 new members during that time: Bonita Adams, James Bowie, Kristina Broadway, Renford Broadway, Sr., Renford Broadway, Jr., Jill Cox, Ashanti Flanagan, Azuri Flanagan, Demetrius Hardy, Shawn Moore, Jr., Malaysia Rucker, Sierra Rucker, Carmen Scott, Savannah Scott, Carmitra Simpson, Robert Simpson, Clifton Stokely, Sarah Stokely, Carl Tate, Kristen Tate, Jacint Wachira, Patricia Williams, Clayton Wright, Sylvia Wright, Shamika Wright, Candice Wright, Mary Jane Wright, Jeremy Abernathy, Quinterio Davis, Sharae Narcisse, Triavannti Narcisse, Imogene Allen, Alvin Harris, China Harris,  Ariyana Love, Lloyd Platt, Selena Adams, Ronel Ramos, Dea. Kelvin Bowen,  Kameron Bowen, April Bowen, Kelvin Bowen, Michelle Meek, Tedra Wright, Arthur Jackson, Larohnda Harrison, Quinton Townsend, Ashlee Townsend, Yvonne Willis, Devon Harrison, Jayden Henry, Michael Brown, Ruby Chapman, Laverne Clark, Erica Cole and Valorie Davis.

Special prayer was requested for Dea. Dan Holiday, Bro. Tom Singleton (deceased) and Katherine Wright. Faithful members who left this earthly home for their glorified home in Heaven: Mother Mary Summerour, Bro. Charles Redding, Sis. Emma Redding Burge, Sis. Carolyn Davenport and Bro. Tom Singleton. While they are gone, they will never be forgotten because they will forever live in our hearts.

Our 127th Anniversary (2006-2007) was a blessing for Sardis Missionary Baptist Church – God truly gave us increase. During this period, we add a second worship service at 8 as well as kept the 11 a.m. service. Youth Church was added for the 2^nd Sunday of each month. Our New Membership Ministry has grown into an integral part of our church providing the necessary steps and instruction for our new members as they become links in the mission and work of God’s church.

We were blessed to be able to purchase a new van as well as complete our project of paving the church parking lot. Sardis’ nursery is now fully operational during morning worship service thanks to devoted members Sis. Tiffany (Standifer) Abernathy and Sis. Denise Royster.

Our outreach programs included the Angel Food Ministry, AWANA, the MUST Center, visitation and the Hallelujah Praise Festival. Our Youth Department was instrumental in reaching out to the youth in the community by sponsoring FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE on the 2^nd Friday of each month. The Junior Usher leaders implemented a monthly Junior Usher Workshop to train our youth in the proper way of ushering in the church.

Our new members during 2006-2007 were: Eric Hicks, La Mona Hicks, Alicia Adams, James Adams, James Cavitt, Sheila Cavitt, Shanece Cavitt, Shala Cavitt, Shanell Wilkerson, Nance Jefferson, Christa Jackson, George Wright, Brent McFadden, Edna Thompson, Joann Hampton, Nikea Reynolds, Harreal Cleveland, Nikea Reynolds, Nykemya Womble, Nykierre Reynolds, Ellysse Mia Nicholas, Alonzo Tyler, Vickie Myles, Michael Brown, Dorothy Austin, Carolyn Harmon, Anna Slaughter, James Gorden, Trenucka Gorden, Jeffrey Edge, Janecca Edmundson, Johnae Gorden, Trequan Gorden, Jassimine Moses, David Moses, Robert Howard Stephenson, Cynthia Barron, Pearlita Davis, Derrick Davis, Mitchell Thomas, Cora Thomas, Cherelle Thomas, Marlon Adams and Katherine Wright.

During this time, two deacons were ordained: Brother Clayton Wright and Brother Eric Hicks. Four men were set aside as Deacons-in-Training: Brother Arthur Jackson, Brother Jeremy Abernathy, Brother Mitchell Thomas and Brother Derrick Davis.

We were also blessed to have two weddings among our members: Sis. Tiffany Standifer and Bro. Jeremy Abernathy, and Bro. Derrick Davis and Sis. Pearlita Davis. In addition, Brother and Sister Tate were blessed with a beautiful baby girl.

                During 2007-2008, the church went to one service at 10 a.m. All of the sound equipment was updated and Deacon Thomas implemented a new Website as well as the production of DVDs of each Sunday morning service.

                Bro. Arthur and Sis. LaRhonda Jackson wed during this time.  Rev. & Mrs. Wright welcomed two grandchildren from daughters Kizzy (daughter) and Sheree (son). Bro. Jeremy & Sis. Tiffany Abernathy welcomed their second daughter, and Alicia Adams was blessed with a baby boy.

                Sardis added 30 new members to the roster for 2007-2008: Johnny Austin, Tajuan Williams, Sr., Christina Williams, Tajuan Williams, Jr., Tianna Williams, Tiara Williams, Casey Hightower, Stacey Hightower, Travelon Williams, Tyre Williams, Kimberly Seabrook, Sharon Burch, Brandon Brown, Amari White, Michael Pritchard, Dazje Alston, Cynthia Barron, Aaron Hicks, Emma Grace Johnson, Dante Moore, Myra Moore, Ashley Rowan, Sylvia Murphy, Elizabeth Morrison, Phyliss Cotton, Karen Johnson, Marquitta Jones, Larry Best, Beatrice Lucas, and Vera Reed.

                Historical highlights for 2008-2009 include the ordination of Dea. Mitchell Thomas (May 2008), and the licensing of Min. Shawn Moore, Sr. (December 2008). We celebrated the lives of Bro. Herbert McGuire (died June 2008) and Bro. Eddie Hill (died Oct. 2008).

                During this time, Sardis welcomed 33 members either by Christian experience or as candidates for baptism. They are: Nicole Jenkins, Michael White, Johnathan Young, Erica Allen, Toni Grady, Christopher Grady, Lawrence McKay, Alma McKay, Britney McKay, Da Jon McKay, Moszella Patterson, Vivian Taylor, Justin Bennett, John Johnson, Dylan MaCoy, Michelle McKinney, Lamar McKinney, Taliyah McKinney, Cassandra Kajoybola, Lisa Mills, Lauren Henry, Devan McKay, Tamarah Mckinney, Terrance Mckinney, Elizabeth Tyson, Christian Hill, Havalynn Abernathy, Phyllis Brandon, Rosa Thompson, Marcus Cotton, Alieyh Cotton, Gerald McLaurin and Laura McLaurin.