Pilgrim Lutheran Church hosted the 77th Annual Convention of the South Carolina Lutheran Men in Mission last month.

Throughout the 2-day sessions, the theme “Using Your Talents to Serve Others” in the community was emphasized.

A thought provoking message was delivered by Pastor Robert Johnson as he questioned the participants: “What’s In Your Closet?” Based upon the text from Luke 6:41-42, he challenged each person to evaluate themselves as they seek to remove “old weaknesses” by replacing them with purposeful living clothed in forgiveness and love for all.

Annual awards were received by: Weston Turbeville received the Saxe Gotha Conference Young Man of the Year for 2019, Archie Trawick and Frank Bouknight received the 2019 SCLMM Distinguished Service Award, Tim Crout received the 2019 SCLMM Lifetime Achievement Award.

Lexington County SC Lutheran Men in Mission Outstanding Units for 2019 included: Mt. Olivet Church in Chapin, President Eddie Boozer and Rev. Dr. Beverly Aurand; St. Stephen’s Church in Lexington, President Ron Redd and Rev. Pat Riddle; Transfiguration Church in Cayce, President Barry Alexander and Rev. Alex Twedt; Pisgah Church in Lexington, President Damian Williams and Rev. Stephen Mims.

Lexington County Lutheran Man of the Year award winners were Glenn Neely from St. Stephen’s church in Lexington, Billy Parker from Emmanuel Church in West Columbia, and Larry Dasher from Wittenberg Church in Leesville.

Jimmy Smith will serve as President of SCLMM in 2020.