BY LOUIS C. WARD
LEESBURG – Macedonia Church of the Living God (MCLG) has been a pillar of faithful spiritual leadership to the Leesburg Community since 1954. Its 70 years of providing integral and upright service was honored at its Platinum Jubilee Celebration Sunday, September 29, 2024 at Venetian Center, 1 Dozier Court, Leesburg, Florida 34748.
Individuals representing Leesburg’s clergy, civic, and community leaders and residents attended the festive event where MCLG’s Senior Pastor Dr. Shelia Smalley announced that MCLG has detached itself from the Church of the Living God, where it has been a member since its inception.
Dr. Smalley informed all attendees that the disassociation becomes effective September 30, 2024, and MCLG will be renamed to the New Macedonia Worship Center.
“One of the indicators for the number 70 is spirituality,” Dr. Smalley said. “The shift to the New Macedonia Worship Center, an independent and non-denominational church, will allow the ministry to embrace spiritual enhancement in a more powerful way, with a major focus on equipping disciples for the 21st Century ministry work in our community.”
“It is with great joy and admiration that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Macedonia Church of the Living God on the momentous occasion of your 70th anniversary,” wrote Leesburg City Commissioner Allyson E. Berry, who presented a proclamation to Pastor Dr. Smalley. “This remarkable milestone is a testament to the enduring faith, dedication and community spirit that have characterized your congregation since its humble beginnings.”
The evening included prayer by Dr. Eugene Reeves, old school and new school gospel music by vocalist Cheryl Gibson Conner and saxophonist Jordan Boles, and a praise and worship dancer. Curtis Bateman, the Master of Ceremony, kept the program moving expeditiously with his quips and sound bites.
“We had a grand time! The music by Ms. Cheryl and Jordan certainly enhanced the evening”, said Ms. Georgette.
