Victory Baptist Church honors First Responders
Pastor Thomas Engle addresses the crowd during the First Responders Appreciation service in the Victory Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. PHOTO BY STEPHAN DREW
By Stephan Drew, Editor
On Saturday, February 28, members of the Darlington community gathered at Victory Baptist Church, located at 633 W. Smith Ave., for a special First Responders Appreciation Day honoring the men and women who serve on the front lines each day.
More than 100 people attended the event, filling the church hall with laughter, conversation and a spirit of gratitude. Guests enjoyed a wide variety of delicious food while taking part in a memorable program designed to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of local heroes.
Pastor Thomas Engle presided over the afternoon’s activities, which included tribute songs, fun and interactive games, and heartfelt words of encouragement. Local law enforcement officers, members of the fire department and other first responders were in attendance as honored guests.
During his message, Pastor Engle shared from the Bible, focusing on 1 Samuel Chapter 14 and the account of Jonathan and his armor bearer as they courageously confronted the Philistines. Drawing a powerful comparison, he described Jonathan as an image of modern-day first responders.
“They run towards danger,” Pastor Engle said, “while others run away from it. It takes a special kind of courage, conviction and commitment to do that.”
He encouraged the youth and other members of the audience to embrace those same qualities in their daily lives. The pastor reminded those in attendance that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to overcome the fear that is inevitable.
Throughout the program, children of all ages participated in games that tested their teamwork skills and their commitment to “rescuing” fellow players. The activities were designed not only for fun, but also to reinforce the day’s message about working together and standing firm in challenging situations.
The event served as both a celebration and a heartfelt thank you to the first responders who faithfully protect and serve the Darlington community. By the end of the day, attendees left with full hearts, full stomachs and a renewed appreciation for those who answer the call in times of need.