*Happy February Everyone! It’s been a long cold week weather-wise to say the least. I pray that all of you are enjoying these milder temperatures even though it’s still winter. Remember it’s already February and springtime is getting nearer.
Also, this month is filled with holidays, events and activities that all can enjoy. First, February is designated as “Black History Month”. The 2026 Black History Month theme is "A Century of Black History Commemorations," celebrating 100 years of Love, Movement, and Renewal. Then there’s Valentine’s Day, President’s Day and the Carnival Season/Mardi Gras. I hope each of you will engage in an activity or two. I plan to enjoy them all!
***Don’t forget that on February 6th & 7th (Friday & Saturday), the Washington Parish Fire District #5 {WPFD), in partnership with the Ole Hickory Restaurant, is hosting a Chicken Plate Benefit Lunch to raise money/funds for the WPFD #5. Tickets for this fundraiser are $20 per plate and can be obtained from any member of the WPFD #5 or Call Beverly Kelly at 985-516-0736.
Church News:
Wesley Ray UMC:
*The United Women in Faith (UWF) held their Annual Women’s Day program on Sunday, January 25th. The guest speaker for this occasion was Rev. Anice Moses. She spoke from the theme: “Moving Forward With Unspeakable Joy” / Sub-Topic “Rejoicing In The Invisible Faith” (1 Peter 1:8). The Women choir sang inspiring songs and participated in every other area of the program,
First MBC (Varnado):
*The church congregation is having a ”Sunglasses-Drive for Peru”, Fellowship & “Potluck”, on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8th after 9:30 am worship service.
New Zion:
*1st Sunday Worship Service was held on Feb. 1st at 9:00 am. Rev. Willie E. Peters, Sr preached the morning message entitled “The Nature of the Seed”, from the book of 1John 3:9. A Black History Moment/Skit was presented by the Sr. Women. It was a blessing for me to hear God’s Word preached and to see the Sr. Women work in unity.
School News:
Varnado High School (VHS/VJHS):
*A celebration is being planned to honor Ret. Coach Lubertha Nichols Peters on Friday, February 13th, during the “Mardi Gras Classic” basketball game (VHS vs. BHS). The theme for this celebration is: The Royal Coach’s Honor. Mrs. Peters was the basketball coach for the VHS Lady Kittens from 1976-2016.
Wesley Ray Elem. (WRE):
*The school is hosting a Mardi Gras Ball for 3rd-5th graders on Saturday, February 7th from 6-8pm. Tickets for this fun event are $5.
Reflections:
*On Comforting the Bereaved: Those who are experiencing the death of a loved one need comforting, as they cope with their loss. Much is usually done at the onset of the loss and we sometimes forget that “aftercare” is needed as well. Let us continue to pray and actively show love (call/text/card/hug/card/meals, etc), to help our bereaved sisters and brothers.
***Continue to love one another, GPigott***
