February 16, 2013 marked the 100th Anniversary  of Macedonia Baptist Church, and on Friday, March 1st, the church and the Mount Vernon community joined together to celebrate the historical occasion at the luxurious Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle – Westchester's premier banquet facility.

As the hundreds of guests arrived and entered the prestigious club, dressed impeccably for the black tie affair, they all knew they were about to participate in a once in a life time extravaganza, led by the church Pastor, Rev. Darren M. Morton, and their legendary former longtime pastor in attendance, Rev. Dr. Richard H. Dixon, Jr., Pastor Emeritus.

The evening kicked off with an incredible cocktail hour consisting of several open bars and an impressive assortment of sumptuous delicacies to eat.

As the crowd grew and the chatter intensified, there seemed to be electricity flowing in the air over the historical significance of what was transpiring. The legion of people appeared anxious to be summoned to the grand ballroom to commence the long awaited historical celebration.

When the call to enter the grand ballroom finally came, the guests were simply awed by the lavish appearance of the large room. They were immediately put into a state of relaxation as they listened to the wonderful musical sounds of The Gate Band.

The long program kicked off with opening remarks from Deacon Paul Bratcher, followed by the Invocation – provided Rev. Keith Price, Associate Minister at Macedonia.

Sister Tambria Terry had the honor of introducing the Mistress of Ceremonies, the attractive and personable, Liz Black, who relaxed and humored the hundreds in attendance with her bubbly and cheerful personality.

Black is a well-respected New York City, tri-state area on-air personality. You can hear her refreshing voice and feel her anointed spirit every Sunday morning as she hosts “Sunday Praise” on 107.5 WBLS, New York’s only 24 hour gospel radio station.  

When Black introduced the Praise United Repertory Ensemble, under the direction of Sister Nereida Richardson, many stood up and gave them a rousing applause. As always, the performance by the popular group was impressive.

Prior to dinner being served, Black asked Macedonia’s Pastor, Rev. Morton, as well as Rev. Dixon to approach the podium and address the audience.  As they both walked towards the podium, the crowd became electrified when they saw Rev. Dixon walking gingerly to address them, with a big smile on his face.

Rev. Dixon provided a very brief speech and drew much applause, and was followed at the microphone by Rev. Morton.

“We are humbly grateful that you are here to share in our celebration this memorable and historic evening. It will be an evening to remember for years to come, filled with elegance, excitement and joy. For a century, Macedonia has been a pillar of faith and champion in causes for social justice, having had Rev. Dr. Rinico Nelson and Rev. Richard H. Dixon, Jr. serve as pastor for over 40 years each. This evening is an opportunity for church and community to come together in celebration of our partnership for 100 years. To that end, you are an integral part of our church history and your presence here tonight makes the celebration complete,” said Rev. Morton.

The dinner was simply incredible, and consisted of three impressive entrees to pick from, followed by mouth watering dessert and coffee.

When dinner was over, the long list of dignitaries in attendance were introduced, followed by comments from Mayor Ernest D. Davis, who presented Rev. Morton a Proclamation and Rev. Dixon with the Key to the City.

After Mayor Davis concluded his speech and presentation, a procession of Macedonia members entered the room carrying posters, each poster dated and describing historical events that took place at Macedonia in the last 100 years.

Prior to the introduction of the Keynote Speaker, numerous elected officials spoke, each presenting proclamations and awards to Rev. Morton.

Vocal musical entertainment was provided by Vanessa Bell Armstrong, who has a style reminiscent of Aretha Franklin. Soulful Vanessa Bell Armstrong, has been belting out R&B-flavored contemporary gospel since the '80s. A native of Detroit and mother of five, she got her start working with Dr. Mattie Moss Clark. Her two selections drew a standing ovation from the appreciative and gospel savvy audience.

The Rev. Joyce Somerville, Macedonia’s Assistant Pastor had the privilege of introducing the keynote speaker, Rev. Ronald Grant, Pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Hudson, NY, which is near Albany.

At the conclusion of Rev. Grant’s speech, there was a historical reflection about Macedonia provided by Earnestene Dixon, First Lady Emeritus, followed by a Centennial video presentation.

Prior to the ceremony ending, Rev. Morton provided closing remarks, followed by Rev. Rev. Joyce Somerville and the Benediction.

The historical event at the Glen Island Harbour Club could not have been made possible without the dedicated work of the Anniversary Committee, led by Doretha Lanier, General Chairperson, and Barbara Howell, General Co-Chairperson.  Also contributing to the success of the event was the Colgate Palmolive Company, who provided a generous donation.