MOUNT VERNON – As a long-time member of Lakeholm Church of the Nazarene in Mount Vernon, Karen Bush raised her family in the teachings and activities of the church.

She and many other young families have participated in Bible quizzing, sports, mission trips, youth conferences and other family events.

On Sept. 13, Bush and other members made yet another lasting memory of their time at Lakeholm by celebrating 50 years of the church’s ministry.

“The people have always been so special to me,” Bush said. “Their stories, often revealed in their Wednesday night testimonials, spoke volumes to me. Their examples of God’s working in their lives gave me confidence that He could and would do the same for me.”

Another example of the lasting impact Lakeholm has had on the community was the attendance of charter members Karen Burnside of Mount Vernon, Dr. Charles McCall of Cleveland, Ruth Shock of Mount Vernon and Lisa Sharp of Mount Vernon.

Greetings were given by Mount Vernon Nazarene University President Dr. Henry Spaulding and North Central Ohio District Superintendent the Rev. Wendell Brown. Music was provided by gospel pianist and singer Timothy Noble.

Pastor Scott Sharpes’ sermon was one from his Stories of Faith from Psalm 78 series entitled “Come! Let us celebrate!”

Sharpes also told the congregation how appreciative he is to be able to serve the residents of Mount Vernon.

“What a great day of celebration as we were reminded of God’s continued faithfulness,” Sharpes said. “As I reflected on the lives that have been changed, I was reminded again that He can give new life to anyone’s life story.”

The Sept. 13 service was just the beginning. Lakeholm has plans to extend the celebration for the next 12 months so it has a better chance to share highlights of the people and events of its 50-year story.