Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Sunday, May 7, 2006

The congregation of First Assembly of God Church in Corrigan celebrated Cinco de Mayo on Sunday, May 7 with special services and activities. The day began with a cultural celebration of traditional song and dance, a historical overview of Cinco de Mayo, as well as testimonies of revival and spiritual breakthroughs in Latin America.

The message was delivered by Ricky Hernandez, the associate pastor and worship leader at Emanuel Assembly of God Church in Lufkin. Brother Hernandez’s fiancé, Jessica Cantu, presented a worship song in Spanish and English. After services, the congregation and guests enjoyed a traditional Mexican meal at the Junior High cafeteria. The children especially enjoyed busting a piñata after lunch.

Events such as this one help First Assembly fulfill its vision of becoming a multicultural church. Pastor Phil Corbett was quoted as saying, “We have let our prejudices and divisions separate the body of Christ for too long. This day was truly a breakthrough for the community because the church had record attendance for the services and activities.” Pastor Phil also stated, “This was a good opportunity to celebrate the heritage of many members in the congregation because their ministry is much appreciated in the church. A big thank you goes to our own Ana Villanueva and Nancy Garcia for making this day happen.”

When Ana and Nancy were asked what they liked most about the day, Nancy said, “I enjoyed the traditional Mexican folklore dances. I had the privilege of teaching the children these dances and it truly blessed me to see them perform.” Ana enjoyed everything about the day, especially the song Brother Eusevio Martinez sang in Spanish.

A highlight of the day was the congregation being able to raise the funds to send a construction team to help build a church in Tamazunchala, south of Mexico City. They will be leaving on Sunday, May 21.

When asked if he would plan other cultural celebrations, Pastor Phil emphatically stated, “Absolutely!” Before his recent trip to Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day to conduct revival services, the church had their own version of an Irish celebration. Upcoming activities include their annual Fourth of July celebration, a very special Thanksgiving celebration honoring Native Americans, and a distinctive celebration of Martin Luther King Day next January.