BY GEORGETTE P. WARD, GUEST WRITER TO THE TIMES
LEESBURG – Christian Worship Center’s (CWC) Women of Worth (WOW) sponsored its first Galentine’s Brunch Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, at The CWC Faith Center, 1110 C.R. 468, Leesburg, FL, 34748.
Pastor Constance Christian, the host, prayed and welcomed everyone, creating a receptive atmosphere for the Galentine event, a spinoff of Valentine’s Day, which attracted more than fifty participants who were as young as six, and as old as seventy. Everyone was attired in pink or red to highlight the festive occasion.
Ms. Czenobia Christian started off with a game of bingo; Find the Guest, as the ice breaker. Pastor Christian then introduced Ms. Darlene Rocker, the keynote speaker, who was the first Black School Secretary and the first Black Female Licensed Funeral Director in Sumter County.
Ms. Rocker informed the group that we are to respect ourselves with self-confidence, knowing our weaknesses, while being compassionate to others. She spoke about our created uniqueness: We must first love ourselves with the gifts God has given us. We are worthy to keep Black History’s love legacy alive through our life’s achievements.
Ms. Rocker had us answer ‘Yes’ to questions celebrating our life of external and internal expressions to take care of self. We should be in competition with Me, Myself, and I. We are to have no jealousy of others, which is evil.
The women embraced themselves using their own hands to represent a crown. Curtis Mayfield’s song, “So in Love,” was playing. The melodious music had us swaying from side to side. She stated we can be wild and boastful in love to others and to self.
“The first annual WOW’s Galentine’s Brunch was simply amazing! From the opening praise to the delicious food, to the beautiful decor, the love, joy of sisterhood, fun and the fellowship were off the charts!” Pastor Christian stated.
“I am a firm believer in promoting women and self-love. Our speaker, Darlene Rocker, executed the message with great conviction”, continued Pastor Christian.
The Brunch was catered by A Taste of Joe’s Kitchen. The menu consisted of grits and shrimp, red velvet waffles, French toast, sausages, chicken nuggets, mimosas, orange juice or water. An enjoyable array of delicious desserts of fruits and cakes were also available.
The committee was thanked for its efforts. The ladies in red or pink attire ended the affair by taking pictures in the WOW booth or in front of the red and pink flower backdrop.
Queen Nakia Myles, a committee member stated, “Very Beautiful event! So much love in the room, all different types of Queens from their beauty, style, smiles and grace. Decor, Food, and the speaker were on POINT! Looking forward to next year.”
