April 2026 Communicator

April 2026, VOL 50 NO. 4

First Missionary Baptist Church

The Communicator “Fresh Start: Health Awareness, Spring Cleaning & Spiritual Renewal”

IN THIS ISSUE

FROM THE PASTOR'S PEN Page 2

FMBC PORTRAITS OF FAITH Page 4-5

SENIOR USHER RECOGNITION DAY Page 9

SCRUGGS ACADEMY WELCOMES THEIR NEW HEAD OF SCHOOL Page 11

From the Pastor’s Pen

Dr. Carlos D. Williams, Senior Pastor

Reflections “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For his mercy endures forever.” Chronicles 16:34 Dear FMBC Family, As I enter my seventh month of service as Senior Pastor, I have found myself reflecting on all the Lord has done for us and through us. While I could share a list of challenges we have faced, I refuse to give the enemy any news coverage. So, I think it is more advantageous and beneficial for our faith to dwell on God’s goodness and faithfulness to us as a church. Consider this timeline of triumph: • A Newly Renovated Sanctuary and Other Worship Spaces • Introduction of the new G.R.O.W. Vision • A Dedication Service (Sunday, February 1st) • Pastoral Installation Weekend (March 13-15)

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• A return of former members • Addition of approximately 30 new members (October 2025-Present) • Increased Bible Study & Worship Service Attendance • Ongoing Healing & Reconciliatory Efforts • Renewal of Fellowship with Churches and Organizations • Naming of Vision Team Members • Commencement of Filling Staff Vacancies

eclipse its wins and successes.

I thought it necessary to share these testimonies with you because the church needs to be reminded of God’s goodness to us. Let us not be filled with pride or arrogance. Rather, let us approach the receipt of these blessings with humility and thanksgiving. I hope that you can see what a commitment to corporate prayer yields. We will intensify our time of corporate prayer, recommit ourselves to evangelism, and expand our Christian education efforts. Let us continually renew ourselves to God, serve, love, and unify.

The results of those practices will be more of his goodness.

So, join me in reflecting on the works of God in FMBC and let us collectively sing, “and all my life you have been faithful, all my life you have been so, so good; with every breath that I am able Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God.”

I am sure there are other accomplishments to mention; these are a few that came to mind. They may seem small to many, but they are worth reflecting on because they are gifts of grace from God. All of these have been made possible because of your support, prayers, With Gratitude, and God’s grace. Often, we focus Carlos D. Williams, Senior Pastor on the issues, imperfections, and flaws the church has, which can

The Afterglow of Easter: Sustaining the Spring Clean Now that the Easter lilies have bloomed and the initial rush of "spring fever" has settled into a steady rhythm, we find ourselves in a season of maintenance and growth. The windows have been washed and the Resurrection celebrated, but the true work of renewal is an ongoing process.

If the holiday was the spark, the weeks following are the steady flame.

BEYOND THE INITIAL SCRUB It’s easy to treat spiritual renewal like a one-day deep clean—intense and fleeting. However, the message of the empty tomb is one of perpetual newness.

While we may have cleared the "big clutter" during Lent or Holy Week, the post-Easter season asks us to maintain that clarity in the face of daily routine.

"He who was seated on the "But if we walk in the light, as he throne said, 'I am making every- is in the light, we have fellowship thing new!'" — Revelation 21:5 with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from The Resurrection wasn't a tem- all sin." — 1 John 1:7 porary fix; it was a permanent shift in the atmosphere. Just as LIVING THE NEW LIFE we must continue to tend our As you settle into the rhythms of homes after the first big spring the season, let your home and cleaning, we must continue to heart remain open. The "spring "sweep" our hearts daily to keep cleaning" of the soul shouldn't the dust of complacency from end just because the calendar settling. has turned. By staying rooted in the power of the Resurrection, WALKING IN THE LIGHT we ensure that the freshness of Spring is no longer just a prom- the season isn't just a passing ise; it is the current reality. As the phase, but a lifestyle of holiness days grow longer, the increased and joy. light often reveals the spots we missed in our earlier cleaning. What is one specific area of your Rather than feeling discouraged daily routine where you’d like to by the lingering grime, we can keep that "post-Easter" freshview it as an opportunity for re- ness alive? finement.

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PORTRAITS OF FAITH: DEACON EMERITUS JUDGE POSEY, JR.

By: Minister Jo Anita Miley

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hroughout the Bible, God raises up leaders to guide His people, strengthen His church, and advance His kingdom. Effective leadership is essential to ensuring that the church remains focused on its mission to make disciples and spread the Gospel. A powerful example of this kind of faithful, enduring leadership can be seen in the life of Deacon Emeritus Judge Posey, Jr., whose journey reflects decades of commitment, humility, and obedience to God.

leadership begins with service.

Born and raised in Collins, Mississippi, Posey gave his life to Christ at the age of 11 during a revival service at Shady Oak Missionary Baptist Church. In those early years, access to consistent pastoral teaching was limited, and much of his spiritual growth came through Sunday School and Baptist Training Union. It wasn’t until he was 16 that he fully understood what it meant to live as a committed Christian.

From that point forward, he pursued a deeper relationship with God and a life rooted in obedience.

In 1963, Posey moved to Biloxi, Mississippi, where he began serving in the Deacon’s ministry.

This experience helped prepare him for a lifetime of leadership in Christian service. Shortly after relocating to Huntsville, Alabama, he joined First Missionary Baptist Church in 1964, where he quickly became an active and dedicated member. He served on the Deacon Board, taught Sunday School, participated in the Baptist Training Union, and sang in the Brotherhood Choir, demonstrating his commitment to both leadership and service.

At 97 years old, Deacon Posey has walked with God for 86 years, serving faithfully in numerous leadership roles throughout his life. He believes that the foundation of effective leadership is modeling Christlike behavior. Jesus exemplified servant leadership by showing up for people, engaging them in meaningful ways, and empowering them to fulfill their purpose. This model has shaped Posey’s belief that true One of the most significant periods of Posey’s leadership 4

came during times when the church was without a pastor.

Following the unexpected passing of Pastor H.P. Snodgrass, Posey, as Chairman of the Deacon Board, stepped into a critical leadership role.

Though he was not clergy, he provided stability, ensured that ministries continued to function, and relied heavily on prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. His leadership helped unify the congregation and sustain the church during uncertain times.

Under later leadership, the church experienced tremendous growth, including relocation, expanded ministries, and increased community impact. Posey witnessed and contributed to these transformative years, remaining a steady and faithful presence throughout.

His advice to future generations of leaders is both simple and profound: lean completely on the Holy Spirit.

True leadership is not about personal qualifications but about trusting God’s power and direction. Posey’s life stands as a testimony that when leaders follow God wholeheartedly, they can lead effectively— even in the most challenging seasons.

PORTRAITS OF FAITH: BROTHER LEO TURNER, JR.

By: Minister Jo Anita Miley expressive vocal runs, Brother Turner has set a high standard and inspired generations of singers who follow him.

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At just 13 years old, Brother Turner gave his life to Christ while attending West Clinton Baptist Church. He was baptized there and faithfully served for many years, cherishing the experience even though the church no longer exists. Later in life, he married, raised a family, and relocated to Athens, Alabama, where he joined Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church. There, he served as a deacon for 15 years, continuing his commitment to both leadership and service.

usic plays a powerful and essential role in the Christian walk, serving as both an expression of faith and a vehicle for worship and connection. Through music, believers are able to engage their emotions while reinforcing spiritual truths, creating a deeply meaningful and unified experience. It offers a sacred outlet for the full range of human feelings—joy, sorrow, gratitude, and hope—allowing His journey eventually led individuals to draw closer to him to First Missionary Baptist God in every season of life.

Church under the leadership of Pastor Julius Scruggs.

For Brother Leo Turner, Jr., now Recognizing his gift, Pastor 91 years old, music has been a Scruggs encouraged Brother central source of inspiration Turner to join the Brotherhood throughout his remarkable Choir. After hearing him sing, 78-year journey with Christ. the pastor affectionately He recalls vividly his early nicknamed him “Sam Cook,” a encounter with the Lord, which name that stayed with him over shaped the course of his life. the years.

Gospel music, in particular, became a cornerstone of One of Brother Turner’s most his faith, and his voice has cherished hymns is “Nearer long stood out as one of the My God to Thee,” a song that most distinctive in the FMBC holds deep personal meaning.

Brotherhood Choir. Known for His love for it was sparked his smooth yet powerful tone, years ago when he attended rich emotional depth, and a concert featuring Sam

Cooke and the Soul Stirrers.

That moment inspired him to dedicate his voice to the Lord, and he has faithfully led this hymn for many years. Although a respiratory illness during the COVID-19 pandemic affected his ability to sing, he continues to pray for strength to lift his voice once more.

Beyond music, Brother Turner values daily prayer and studying the Word of God as essential to Christian growth. He also shared his gift of teaching, serving alongside Brother W.A. Rice in Sunday School for over 12 years. Still, music remains his deepest connection to God, especially during life’s most difficult moments.

He has endured significant loss, including the passing of his wife of 52 years, Mildred, in 2012, and later the death of Pastor Scruggs in 2023.

Through both trials, he leaned on faith, community, and the encouragement of his pastor and church family.

His advice to the next generation is simple yet powerful: “Don’t give up. Life’s problems are temporary. Stay patient, continue in prayer and thanksgiving, and trust God to give you strength each day.”

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WHY YOUR VOTE MATTERS MOST: THE POWER OF PRIMARY ELECTIONS IN TODAY’S AMERICA

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rimary elections play a critical yet often overlooked role in shaping the political direction of the United States. While general elections receive the most public attention, primaries are where key decisions about candidates are made. In today’s political climate—marked by polarization and increased civic awareness—participation in primary elections is more important than ever.

Primary elections determine which candidates will represent political parties in the general election. Instead of choosing between parties, voters in primaries select the individuals who will appear on the final ballot. According to the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP, n.d.), primaries are elections used by political parties to nominate candidates for the general election. This means that many important decisions are made before the broader public engages in the final vote.

diverse group of voters to have a disproportionate influence on election outcomes. The Bipartisan Policy Center (2020) notes that primary voters tend to be older and less representative of the general population, which raises concerns about fairness and inclusivity.

The importance of primary elections is especially evident in areas dominated by a single political party. In these districts, the primary often determines the eventual winner, making the general election less competitive. The Institute for Policy Research (2025) highlights that primaries can have an outsized impact on election outcomes, particularly in noncompetitive districts.

This makes participation in primaries essential for voters who want their voices heard.

Additionally, primary elections shape party priorities and policy direction. Candidates often tailor their platforms to appeal to primary voters, influencing legislative agendas.

When turnout is low, candidates may focus on a narrow group of voters rather than the broader public. Increased participation helps ensure more balanced representation.

A major concern surrounding primary elections is low voter turnout.

Research shows that only about 20% of eligible voters participate in primaries (McDonald, n.d.).

In contrast, general elections attract significantly higher participation. This disparity In conclusion, voting in primary allows a smaller and less elections is vital to maintaining

a representative democracy.

Primaries determine candidates, influence policy, and often decide election outcomes. By participating, citizens can actively shape the future of their communities and the nation.

References Bipartisan Policy Center. (2020).

The effect of open primaries on turnout and representation. https://bipartisanpolicy.org/ report / the -effect-of-openprimaries-on-turnout-andrepresentation/ Federal Voting Assistance Program. (n.d.).

Primary elections fact sheet. U.S. Department of Defense. https:// www.fvap.gov/uploads/ F VA P/ O u t re a c h - M a te r i a l s / PrimaryElectionsFactSheet.pdf Institute for Policy Research.

(2025). Do U.S. elections have a primary problem? Northwestern University. https://www.ipr. northwestern.edu/news/2025/ do-us-elections-have-aprimary-problem.html McDonald, M. P. (n.d.). Voter turnout in primary elections.

Clark University. https:// commons.clarku.edu/faculty_ political_science/19/

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Senior Usher Recognition Sunday We honor and celebrate our devoted Senior Ushers on Sunday, April 19, 2026, for their unwavering commitment, faithful service, and spirit of excellence. Your warm smiles, guiding presence, and servant hearts help create an atmosphere of worship, order, and hospitality that blesses every person who enters our doors.

Through your years of dedication, you have set a standard of faithfulness and grace that reflects the love of Christ in action. Your willingness to serve—often behind the scenes—does not go unnoticed, and your impact is deeply felt throughout our church family.

On Sunday, April 19th, we proudly recognize and thank you for your steadfast service, your humility, and your continued commitment to God’s house. May the Lord richly bless you for all that you have sown into His kingdom.

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Welcome

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