‘Real love in action’: Church celebrates Pastor & First Lady’s anniversary

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — New Hope Freewill Baptist Church in Leland celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Pastor and First Lady with a drive-by parade on Sunday.

With horns honking and cars decorated the congregation, a Winnabow Firetruck, and two Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office squad cars surprised the couple outside the church.

The church is still holding online services to protect their at-risk members, so many have not seen each other since the pandemic began.

Pastor John H. Brown described the gesture as a sign of true love.

“They were showing real love in action. It’s easy to tell someone you love them, but when you put it in action the way that they did today what can you say?” Pastor Brown said.

First Lady Lynda Brown says she is grateful.

“I’m just excited and I thank God for all the members and what they did today is just so meaningful,” First Lady Brown said. “I just thank God and I thank the members.”

Pastor Brown gave a special shout-out to Niki James and Doris Joseph for planning the anniversary surprise.