The groundbreaking of the brand new Oconee Street UMC was held Sept. 15, 2013. Church youth distribute stones from the church’s foundation. Mayor Nancy Denson spoke of OSUMC’s commitment to the community. Pastor Lisa Caine presides over a short ceremony. Music director Maxine Easom directs the choir. Rebecca Simpson-Litke and Carla Dennis provide the music for the ceremony. District Superintendent Dr. Gary Whetstone prays for the congregation. Liturgist Steve Williams reads from the Old Testament. Congregants view the ceremony from the parsonage lawn across Poplar Street. Joe Dennis recounts the fire that destroyed the sanctuary on April 15, 2013. Longtime church member Maxine Easom stresses that the church will rebuild. Poplar Street was blocked from traffic for the ceremony. Longtime church member Lucille Hancock is the first person to turn ground on the new church. Congregants place rocks of the former church to be part of the new foundation. Share this:TwitterFacebookEmailLike this:Like Loading... Photos: Groundbreaking Ceremony September 15, 2013 / Joe Dennis / Leave a comment
