On this Thankful Thursday, I am grateful for all the gifts that First Baptist Church of Charleston brings to my life. Sunday Sept. 30, it will celebrate 330 years of service to God and man. FBC has the warmest, most gracious fellowship I have ever known. People really do love one another. The Robert Mills sanctuary itself is beautiful. The organ is magnificent and the choir inspiring. The church has been blessed throughout its history with great ministers; the most famous is Richard Furman. In modern history, Dr. John A. Hamrick was a visionary and great leader. Not only did he start the fully accredited First Baptist School, but he was the founding president of what is now Charleston Southern University. Dr. John and the late Minister of Music and Worship, David Redd, really taught me the meaning and practice of worship. The congregation at FBC contains a wide spectrum of religious beliefs and political preferences but this has been true since its founding. Diversity is strength. My family and I have been truly blessed by the FBC family. As glorious as its past has been, I know that its future is even brighter as long as it remains true to its calling. First Baptist Church occupies a unique position of influence which always provides a challenge.

Thankful Thursday is a day set aside to recognize the importance of someone to our lives and to let her or him know of our gratitude. Develop an attitude of gratitude. Say Something Nice; Be a Lifter. You will be glad that you did.

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