Community was at the heart of the 2013 Brundidge Gospel Fest held on the grounds of the historic Bass House in downtown Brundidge Saturday.

The purpose of Gospel Fest is to uplift the community through praise and worship and also to recognize members of the community who are dedicated in their service to others.

Bishop M.C. Williams presented Community Service Awards to Isabell Boyd of Brundidge and Johnny and Judy Boutwell of Troy.

Williams said the award recipients have dedicated their adult lives to unselfish service to their communities.

“We honor them here today as we celebrate the fifth anniversary of Gospel Fest and uplift our community,” Williams said.

Williams presented plaques of appreciation to Boyd and the Boutwells.

“These plaques have the seal of the S.D. James Evangelistic Association and we thank you for all you do for the community,” he said.

Boyd said she was extremely grateful for the recognition.

“It is an honor to be selected to receive this award from the wonderful S.D. James Evangelist Association,” Boyd said. “It’s always nice for people to think about the service you provide to the community and to individuals.

“Whether what I do is large or small, it is from my heart. I always try to think about ways I can lend a helping hand. If I can’t be a servant and a concerned citizen for my community and my fellowmen, then my living is in vain.”

Johnny and Judy Boutwell expressed grateful appreciation to the S.D. James Evangelistic Association for the recognition, as well.

“This is a huge honor for us,” Johnny Boutwell said. “I met Dr. James when they were putting up the first building at Jerusalem Campground. He is a good friend and we have the greatest respect for each other. Judy and I have enjoyed our relationship with Dr. James and his wife, Carrie. We all need somebody and we need each other.”

Judy Boutwell said that she and her husband are committed to their community and appreciate the support that they have received from the S.D. James Evangelistic Association.

“We have made some wonderful friendships and are very honored by this recognition,” she said. “I don’t know of any greater recognition that we could receive than to be recognized by our friends.”

The praise and worship music for the event featured the Sisters of Beta Upsilon Lambda, LaSandra Robinson, the S.D. James Mass Choir, New Hope and Lily White churches.

Brundidge City Council member Cynthia Pearson addressed the gathering and expressed appreciation to the S.D. James Evangelistic Association for its efforts to bring the community together for a time of fellowship, praise and worship.