Local church recognizes first responders with service and breakfast

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — The Bridge Presbyterian Church on Lanvale Road held its annual first responders service and breakfast Sunday morning. The event honored police, fire, EMS, social workers, and disaster relief personnel.

The church offered two worship services at 8:45 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. A continental breakfast took place between the services in the fellowship hall.

Attendees heard messages of gratitude and support for the physical and mental health of first responders and their families.

A written message from Leland Mayor Brenda Bozeman was read during the service. It thanked first responders for their dedication and included prayers for their safety.

Pastor Doug Cushing led the service. He said recognizing first responders is important, especially because many do not seek acknowledgment.

“There’s a humility that they bring to their task and they often times don’t want to be recognized — they just want to do their job,” Cushing said. “But when they are recognized, they appreciate it so much more because in our congregation, it’s from the heart. And all they really want is a genuine thank you and a celebration for what they do for us every single day.”

The church invited first responders’ families to attend. Pastor Cushing said the event is about supporting the community and showing thanks.