Rev. and Mrs. Crawford (center) were escorted by their son, Dyon (left), and daughter, Krystal, at the anniversary celebration. Rev. Robert L. Crawford celebrated the 16th anniversary of his pastorate at the Mulberry Baptist Church in services on Sunday, December 21.

Arthur Danner served as master of ceremonies for the occasion.

After a spiritual devotion led by Marvin Anderson, Tim Garnett and Lawrence Stokes, Rev. Crawford and his wife were escorted down the aisle by their children, Dyon and Krystal, as the choir sang "Thank You Lord".

Following a warm welcome and pinning of corsages by Essie Cofer, remarks about Rev. Crawford were given by Brenda Brown and Albert Rucker, the oldest deacon at Mulberry Baptist. They both touched on how Rev. Crawford is such a humble pastor, how much he is loved and how much of an asset he has been to Mulberry. They both expressed how much they looked forward to celebrating many, many more years under Rev. Crawford's leadership.

Rev. George Edwards of Thankful Baptist Church brought a soulstirring message from the Book of Genesis entitled "When He Calls, I Will Answer." After the invitation to discipleship was extended, presentations were made by Mr. Rucker and Angela Johnson. Luella Doyle presented a plaque to Rev. Crawford entitled "My Pastor." Rev. Paul Hull made a special presentation on behalf of Heard's Chapel Baptist Church.

After giving thanks to God, Rev. Crawford came forth and thanked everyone that participated on the program as well as those who took time to celebrate with him on this special day.

Following grace and the benediction, given by Rev. Edwards, everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner consisting of fried chicken, green beans, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, various cakes, rolls, tea and soda. The fellowship hall was beautifully decorated in a Christmas theme with tables covered in white and enhanced with poinsettias.

Rev. Crawford is the son of the late Dave and Essie Mae Danner Crawford and is the youngest of 12 siblings. He is married to the former Elnora Bankston of Rayle and they have four children, Denise, Shaka, Dyon and Krystal. Rev. Crawford has also been the pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Lincolnton for the past 17 years. A graduate of Washington Central High, he graduated from Athens Christian College in Athens and American Baptist College in Augusta. He was ordained to the ministry on March 24, l99l. Rev. Crawford is an active member of Shiloh Lodge #63, the Wilkes Chapter of the NAACP, and president of the 2nd District Meeting in Lincolnton.

Rev Crawford and members extend a warm invitation to all to attend services at Mulberry Baptist Church on the first and third Sundays where Sunday School begins at 10:30 a.m. followed by the worship service at 11:30 a.m.