FAISON — During the 11 a.m. morning worship service on Sunday, July 26, Poplar Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 163 Poplar Grove Church Lane, Faison, celebrated its annual Associate Ministers, Deacons and Trustees Recognition Day 2026.
The service was held under the leadership of Pastor Rev. Willie C. Alford, who has faithfully shepherded the congregation for the past 36 years since his election as pastor in May 1990, alongside First Lady Rev. Jackie C. Alford. The congregation gathered to recognize and honor the faithful men and women whose servant leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment continue to strengthen the ministry and mission of the church.
At Poplar Grove, associate ministers, deacons, and trustees each fulfill a unique calling in supporting the work of the church. Associate ministers are licensed to preach the gospel and assist the pastor in the spiritual development of the congregation. Deacons faithfully minister to the sick, the needy, widows, and orphans while assisting the pastor in advancing the mission of the church. Trustees serve as legal representatives in matters concerning the church and faithfully oversee the stewardship, maintenance, and care of the church’s property and resources. Together, these ministries exemplify Christian service, teamwork, and a shared commitment to advancing the Kingdom of God.
Those recognized during the 2026 Annual Associate Ministers, Deacons & Trustees Recognition Day included Associate Ministers First Lady Rev. Jackie C. Alford, the Rev. Serita Murphy, the Rev. Lawrence A. Aycock, D.Min., and Minister Isaac Copeland; Chairman of the Deacons Thurman E. Copeland; Chairman of the Trustees Larry M. Bell, Sr.; Deacon Glenwood Bell; Trustees Lacy Wendell Bell, Alfonza Bell, Donnell Bell, Kelvin Bell, Kenneth Bell, Linwood Copeland, Thomas Lewis, Glenwood Thurston Bell, Derrick Bell, Theodore Bullock, Kendric Faison, and Thomas Fennel
Lacy Antrell Bell, Jesse Joyner, and Robin Smith were also recognized but were not present for the group photograph.
A special highlight of the service was the presentation of the 2026 Officer of the Year Award to Trustee Kelvin Bell. Trustee Bell was recognized for his outstanding dedication, tireless work ethic, and unwavering commitment to Poplar Grove Missionary Baptist Church. His faithful service has helped ensure that the church campus remains well maintained and that weekly worship services, ministry activities, and special events are carried out with excellence in support of Pastor Alford’s vision and the collective efforts of the church’s leadership.
The annual recognition service served as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the countless hours of volunteer service, sacrifice, and faithful leadership demonstrated by the church’s associate ministers, deacons and trustees. Their continued commitment reflects the Biblical model of servant leadership and helps ensure that Poplar Grove Missionary Baptist Church remains a beacon of faith, worship, and community throughout eastern North Carolina.
For more information about Poplar Grove Missionary Baptist Church, including worship service times, ministry opportunities, upcoming events, and the latest church news, visit www.poplargrove-mbc.com.