Emeritus

The Diaconate of Bethany Christian Church would like to thank three outstanding diaconate members for their years of dedicated service to Bethany Christian Church -  Roger and Polly Surprenant and Shirley Ensley. After many years of working faithfully to serve Bethany, Roger, Polly, and Shirley have asked to retire from active service as Diaconate/Elder. They shall be granted the honorary title of Deacon Emeritus, Deaconess Emeritus, and Deaconess/Elder Emeritus respectively. With the status of Emeritus, Ms. Shirley and Mr. Roger and Ms Polly will maintain all the rights and privileges they held as active members of the diaconate; this includes but is not limited to board member. The recognition service will be March 2, 2025.

Roger and Polly were asked to join the diaconate in the mid 2000’s and began service in our brand new building and sanctuary in 2009. Roger and Polly served as diaconate faithfully together as well as served and continue to serve in other leadership roles in the church such as Outreach Chair, CWF, and involvement in many outreach programs beyond our church such as Fishes and Loaves. As chair of the diaconate, I so appreciate Roger and Polly’s willingness and dedication to Bethany Christian Church, and I also appreciate their kind and loving manner.

Shirley Ensley moved to our area from Texas in the mid 1970s. She began attending Bethany and in the mid 1980’s was asked to join the diaconate where she served for many years before being asked to become an Elder of the church. Not only did Shirley serve in these capacities, but she also played and still plays the piano for the church and serves and served in other leadership roles, such as Worship Chair, and President of CWF. Shirley’s calm and logical manner is a beacon to those around her, and we are so blessed to have her at Bethany. With admiration, love, and gratitude we thank all of you.

Melissa Watson