God's work through Houston, Texas, members and ministry was commemorated March 10 and 11 with a 50th anniversary celebration that warmed the lives and hearts of many. Houston's young, old and everyone in between were treated to an inspiring weekend that served as a history lesson for some, but also included sweet memories for many others.

As previous Houston ministers reflected on the years, members of all ages were taken back to what might be considered a simpler time.

We were also reminded that growing pains are a necessary part of life, and despite the Church's past difficulties, we are still standing strong. Realizing the numbers of those still firmly committed to God's work was truly inspiring.

The weekend's activities began with a Friday evening reception. Everyone was treated to a memory-filled slide presentation, after which Wayne Cole, David Treybig, Ken Treybig, Burk McNair, Clyde Kilough, Larry Salyer, Frank McCrady II, Harold Rhodes, Don Waterhouse, Leroy Neff, David Johnson, Ken Giese, Jim Franks and Tom Kirkpatrick shared personal memories of their times in Houston. Ed Marrs and Dave Myers were unable to attend, but sent messages that were read aloud.

The common thread among their memories seemed to be not only Houston's ongoing traffic and road construction, but also their sincere thanks to the Houston congregations for what the membership meant to them. Another warming sentiment was how many of these ministers still consider Houston "home."

The activities continued Sabbath morning with a brunch, followed by services. Houston South pastor Kenneth Giese narrated a historical slide show that began with the introduction of the 14 members who attended the first Houston service, and graduated to the developments of the present day.

Five special music numbers followed the presentation, as well as a sermon by ex-Houstonian and current UCG president, Clyde Kilough. Mr. Kilough brought old notebooks of past sermons that he shared with the group. He summed up his message with "Remember the past, take stock and move forward."

The evening allowed additional fellowship over drinks, followed by a first-class dinner and dance. In an effort to work off all of the delectable goodies, upbeat tunes began the evening's dance and went on well into the night, with music provided by deejay Arnold Mendez Jr.

Countless hours and organizers came together to make this rather ambitious event such an unequivocal success. UN