Honoring God's Faithfulness and the Hands That Serve: A Joyful End-of-Year Celebration for Presbyterian Women
The Presbyterian Women spring banquet was a big success! This year we honored two First Presbyterian women with Honorary Life Membership awards. The HLM program was established in the Presbyterian Church to recognize faithful service to the women's organization and the church. Kelly Norrell delivered lovely speeches for both awards. This year's recipients were Lane Hays and Linn Acree.
Honorary Life Membership award winners Linn Acree and Lane Hays
Lane Hays, a longtime member of the Lydia Circle, is known for her kindness, generosity, and faithful presence. She has stepped in time and again to lead, host, and support her circle, often opening her home and keeping the group strong through times of need. Her hospitality extends to the wider community, including welcoming and caring for a Congolese family supported by the church. With a deep love for God's creation and her family, Lane lives with humility, warmth, and genuine care for others.
Linn Acree, a member of the Julia White Circle, was honored for her quiet, unassuming service and beautiful needlework. Since moving to Knoxville four years ago, she has become an integral part of First Presbyterian, organizing directories, designing usher badges, leading funeral receptions, sewing with refugees, and enhancing the Fellowship Hall with handmade banners. Linn consistently serves with grace, skill, and humility, embodying a genuine and faithful commitment to her church community.
Pastor Meredith Loftis's devotional, "Walking with Jesus: Recognizing Christ on the Road," reflected on the Emmaus story as a reminder that Christ is present with us even in seasons of doubt and unanswered questions. She invited participants to see themselves in the travelers who struggled to recognize Jesus, emphasizing that faith can feel uncertain, yet we are never alone. Through community, the witness of women at the resurrection, and the practice of hospitality, she highlighted how Christ is often revealed in ordinary moments, especially around the table, and encouraged reflection on where our hearts have "burned" over the past year.
Carolyn Lovelace, a member of the Lydia Circle of Presbyterian Women, with her daughter, Diana Curtis, a member of the Chi Rho Circle. Diana has been announced as the speaker for the Presbyterian Women's Retreat this September!
Outgoing Moderator Jennifer Maryanski did a great job covering PW business, and it was announced that Robyn McAdoo will serve as the new Moderator. Jenny Eversole honored the memory of the Presbyterian Women we lost this past year, offering heartfelt tributes to each one. It was a joyful celebration and a wonderful way to end the year together!