Rogers Community United Methodist Church celebrates its 121st Church Anniversary
Rogers Community United Methodist Church celebrated one-hundred twenty-one years of service in the Bradenton community. The theme chosen for this years’ celebration was: “Honor the Past, Embrace the Future: 121 Years of Ministry.”
An anniversary service was held on December 8, 2024, at the church located at 1100 15th Street East, Bradenton. The service included members of the family of the late Garfield Devoe Rogers – the church’s namesake and other community residents.
Rogers Community United Methodist Church was founded in 1903 by a devout Christian lady, Mrs. Amanda Lee and her two sons operating for many years as Mount Pleasant Methodist Episcopal Church. When Mrs. Lee became unable to carry the torch to keep the church going and because of Mr. Rogers’ interest in the local church, his influence, leadership and financial contributions, the name of Mount Pleasant Methodist Episcopal Church was changed in his honor to Rogers Memorial United Methodist Church in 1957 and later to Rogers Community United Methodist Church.
During the anniversary service, four community members received awards for their notable efforts to enrich the community through their commendable service. The awardees were Keenan Wooten, Community Service; Johncyna McRae, Social Justice, Avenue941, Brenda Critchfield, Education and Layla Hines, Youth Service. The Preserving Our Legacy recognition was given to a member of the family of G. D. Rogers, Dwight Josey, great-grandson of G.D. Rogers.
Bishop Norman H. Lyons, II, Pastor of Fountain of Life Church, Uniondale, NY was the spirit filled featured guest messenger for the anniversary service. Rev. Kirk D. Lyons is pastor.
