When Bald Rock Baptist Church opens its doors on March 9 for “100 Men and Women in Black and White,” the standing-room-only crowd will be treated to eight choral groups and an afternoon of fellowship and celebration.

“We try to pack out the church,” said church spokesperson Charlotta Kennedy.  “Everyone wears black and white to make the service feel really special.  We invite choral groups from the surrounding area, so it becomes an opportunity to bring together people from many different local churches.”

Eight years ago, Kennedy’s mother, Gloria Green, conceived the idea for the program as a way to grow fellowship in the community.  “My mother coordinated the entire program each year until she passed away last year,” said  Kennedy.  “Although I’ve helped with the event for years, this is the first time I’ve actually taken the lead. 

“My mother chose the name of the program because, at that time, it was a big goal to have 100 people in our church,” Kennedy continued.  “However, last year, we had more than 200 people there – it was standing room only.  So, I just want to continue the work my mother started, and I hope that we can make her proud.”

The theme for this year’s program is “Sharing the Gospel Anytime, Anyplace & Anywhere,” based on Matthew 28: 19-20.  The guest emcee, Pastor George Levett of Crawfordville Baptist Church, will introduce some of the area’s most popular singers, including the Newton County Male Chorus, the Newton County Celebration Choir, A Blend of Men, The Men of Summer Hill (Baptist Church), Peek’s Chapel Baptist Church choir, the Bethlehem (Baptist Church) Male Chorus, and Shady Grove Baptist Church choir.  The Bald Rock Baptist Church choir will also perform.

Later in March, Bald Rock Baptist will celebrate the 17th anniversary of Pastor Christopher Shipp’s service to the church. 

 On March 23, Pastor Marcus Glover of New Vision Family Worship Center will be the guest speaker at the 11 a.m. service, and Pastor Eric Lee of Springfield Baptist Church will speak at the 3 p.m. service.  Between the services, everyone is invited to a dinner in honor of Shipp. 

 “We’re very blessed to have Pastor Shipp,” said Kennedy.  “He’s always there for us, and he never says no.  We love him.”

On March 22, the community is invited to join the church for Family Fun Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to a full day of activities, barbecue and fish plates will be for sale.  

For more information on events at Bald Rock Baptist Church, located at 2284 Old Covington Road, Conyers, call Charlotta Kennedy at 404-556-8566 or the church office at 770-929-3421, or visit the church’s website at baldrockbaptistchurch.org.