A Reflection on the Presbyterian Women Birthday Luncheon

By Carol Brittain
Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church Gastonia is made up of all women church members who are divided into Circles which meet each month. The circles have bible study and contribute to the life of the church by supporting college students, feeding bereaved families, and making casseroles for Crisis Care. Presbyterian Woman also sponsor Blanket Sunday, support a sewing ministry, and give a gift to the church each year in honor of those women who have passed away. The Food Fest/Bake Sale supports missions in our local community and beyond. This year eleven organizations have been supported from the work of Presbyterian Women.

Each year the Presbyterian Women of first Presbyterian Church join other women throughout the denomination to make donations through the Birthday Luncheon. These donations to missions encourage women to celebrate the blessings in their lives. These missions are vetted by Presbyterian Women’s national board.

The Birthday luncheon allows our FPC women not only to make mission donations but also to recognize the activities of the year. Moderator 2022/23 Coleman Efird summarized the years activities, and Moderator 2023/24 Kate Buckles with Amy Spencer recognized the women who died this past year.

Two women were recognized for there extensive work for our church with Life Membership recognition. Both Dottie LaFar and Betsy Summer have contributed in various areas of leadership and service to Presbyterian Women and First Presbyterian Gastonia.

Photography courtesy of Caleb Hayes