College Avenue pastor celebrates 15th year

By Staff
Jonathan Willis FCT Staff Writer
When Rev. B.J. Bonner became the pastor of College Avenue First Baptist Church in Russellville, he could have never imagined that he would one day be taking part in a 15 year anniversary celebration.
When he was called to the church in 1990, Bonner was working in Gadsden and planning to commute back and forth to Russellville.
His plans soon changed.
Now, 15 years later, his church plans to honor him by hosting a pastoral appreciation service Sunday afternoon.
Following Sunday morning's regular 11 a.m. worship service, which will be led by Bonner's son-in-law, Rev. Larry Davidson, the church will meet again at 3 p.m. with members of East Florence Missionary Baptist Church participating. The afternoon service will be led by Rev. William Freeman of the Florence church and will be followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.
She also said that several committees of church members have worked together to put Sunday's celebration in action.
A special Bible passage has been set aside to use as the theme for the day as well.
That passage from the King James version of the Bible reads, "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."
Bonner said that there have been challenges throughout the years but he has enjoyed his 15 years at the church.