9 MAY 2018 BODY OF CHRIST NEWS Happy 50th Anniversary Pastor Jules & First Lady Ida! On Saturday, April 7th, 2018, the 50th wedding anni- versary of Pastor Dr. Jules E. Smith and Reverend Ida Gice Smith was celebrated with an incredible and love-filled recommitment ceremony held at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church where both generously serve as pastors. God provided clear skies on a warm, sunny Saturday afternoon. Approaching Rising Star Missionary Baptist church, black and white stretch limousines flanked the entrance setting the stage for something special awaits inside. All who entered were embraced by cheerful, smiling Greeters. Upon entering the filled sanctuary, harmonic music serenaded you played by an angelic cellist. As she played, all who gathered felt a sense of peace with love in the air. The momentous occasion attended by over 400 guests included family, friends, fellow clergy, community leaders and elected officials. The ceremony was officiated by Reverend James Buck of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with assistance from Reverend Greg Johnson of Denver, Colorado. Both served as assistant ministers under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Jules E. Smith. The theme “The Gold Standard” was definitely exhibited as the bride and groom respectively were absolutely regal adorning an exquisite, gold, bejeweled gown and white tuxedo accented in gold. The bridal party comprised of Matron of Honor, Alicia Smith Young (daughter), Best Man, Kimani Darmon Smith (son), twelve bridesmaids and groomsmen, three flower girls and a ring bearer. The wedding party consisted of family members, grandchildren (Breon Cre’ Smith, Breonnon C. Smith, Brooklyn C. Hamer), God children and friends from high school. Guests traveled across the country to celebrate with Pastor Dr. Jules E. Smith, “Honeybun”, and first Lady, Ida. California, Colorado, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Texas and Wyoming were the states guests traveled from to witness this celebratory wonder. SPECIAL GENUINE THANKS TO: Bridal Gown Designer: Mori Lee Cellist Artist: Yonni Coleman Chauffeur: Pastor Patrick Munnerlyn Decorations: Barbara Bryant Lee Hair Stylist: TiLa McCoy Hosts and Hostesses Limousine Transportation: Pipkin Braswell & Taylor Mortuary Photographer: Richard Reese & Dwayne Glapion RSMBC Pastor’s Aid Ministry RSMBC Multimedia Vocalists and Matrons: Audrey Bowie & Johnnie M. Dotson Vocalist and Pianist: Bishop Calvin Emery Wedding and Groom Cake: Kim Herron Wardrobe: Asis Fashions Mac Graphics Shirley Grayson David Green Fairy Hanley Maia Hill Isaiah Johnson Andrea Lewis Nabria Minor Renee’ Minor Ethel Reed Not only were heartfelt vows exchanged but the story of their love was spoken to encapsulate the history behind their long-lasting ma rriage. The two met at Pastor Dr. Jules E. Smith’s 16th birthday party in St. Francisville, Louisiana and have been inseparable ever since. Officiated by Reverend Alex Kennedy, their wedding took place at the couple’s apartment April 2nd, 1968 in New York City. Their relationship now is as strong as it was 50 years ago. May your hearts be filled with all the love your hearts can hold and then MORE!