On Sunday, April 30, at 2 p.m., Sandra Jones’ initial sermon was held at First Baptist Church in Victoria.

The service awas opened by Pastor Violet Oliver and Kevin Hodges took over as the worship leader. Oliver explained the role of a minister to Jones via the statement of purpose. Jones was presented to the congregation escorted by her eldest brother, George G. Hodges, and introduced by her daughter, Bernita J. Stevens.

Barbara Rathers gave a beautiful praise dance to the rendition of “You Deserve It.”

Jones’ sermon was taken from Jonah 1:3, “You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide.” She related how Jonah tried to run from God. Her message conveyed that many times in our lives we do not want to listen and obey. We try to run away but there’s no place to run or hide and in the end you have to stop running and accept your call. It was an enlightening sermon and you could feel the Spirit emanating from her.

I have known Sandra since childhood; she has always used her glorious voice to sing and praise God in the choir at First Baptist Church. As a child, there was always something special about her spirit.

Jones will continue to lift up the name of Jesus in songs and praise. We are proud and happy that God is using such a talented, spirit-filled woman to preach His word.

The anointing prayer of commission was ministered by Oliver. The presentations were given by Deacon William Liggon and Shelia Hawthrone-Loum.

Jones performed the blessing of the food and the benediction. Dinner was served in the lower dining hall after service.

Mary Simmons is a columnist for The K-V Dispatch. Her email address is ABoxofLoveKVD@gmail.com