Layperson of the Year

Each year we recognize someone in our church family who goes above and beyond the normal church attendance. A person (or couple) who is always willing to go that extra mile for the cause of Christ and good of the church is selected Layperson of the Year. With the majority vote of the congregation under the auspices of the Church Council, the recipient is granted this award with a lunch fellowship on the month of June.

Past recipients: Betty Hickey (1992); Doris Porter (1993); Jim Hickey (1994); Ken Meader (1995); Phyllis Knight (1996); David Williams and Andrew Nowak (1997); Charles Henry (1998); Yvel Sylvain (1999); Sharon Strum (2000); Lisa Jacobson (2001); Charles Huddy (2002); Marilyn Glover (2003); Jose Lantin, Jr. (2004); Frank and Irene Hofmann (2005), Noreen Jacobson (2006) , Mark and Dottye Foxon (2007). , Steven Lacey (2008) , Claire Stevens

Layperson of the Year 2010 - Paul Patrie

Paul Patrie has been selected as our Layperson of the Year by the Church Council, based on the number of nominations he received and the many reasons cited. 

Paul has been a member of First Baptist for 32 years and has served in numerous leadership positions.  Currently he is our Moderator, chairs the Diaconate, and teaches in our church school.  Paul is one of the first person most visitors meet on Sunday morning, as he also serves as one of the ushers.  These are several of the visible roles Paul plays, but there are numerous less noticeable tasks Paul quietly undertakes to make First Baptist a warm and friendly place to worship, learn and serve.

A few excerpts from the nominations highlight the reason Paul is this year's honoree:

My first Sunday at First Baptist, Paul greeted me and I introduced myself.  The following Sunday morning, Paul greeted me by name.  I was impressed and felt welcomed because Paul had remembered my name.  If I have questions and need help with anything I consider Paul the "go to guy."

He da man - Paul Patrie.  Always ready to give a helping hand and fulfilling his duties (and more) that he has been assigned.  He truly personifies what Jesus tells his disciples: "Go forth - preach the gospel - feed my sheep!"

We are very fortunate to have many people who do service for the church.  But we feel Paul goes the extra mile.  From assisting Pastor Martha with communion to shoveling snow.  There are many other jobs that Paul handles without any notice.  We feel that Paul's caring about the welfare of our church is surpassed by no one.

Paul is the first person you meet when you arrive at Sunday worship.  He is friendly, helpful, kind, and cheerful.  Paul has many hats to wear, he serves on several committees.  Paul is the Pastor's right-hand-man - asked to do any task, he is there.

We will honor Paul during the 11:00 a.m. worship service on June 13 and the catered luncheon that follows immediately after the service.  Tickets ($6.00) for the meal may be purchased through the church office or during the coffee hour on May 30 and June 6.

Pastor Martha Dominy
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Paul, CONGRATULATIONS for being chosen Layperson of the Year.  Keep the light burning in His service... Praise be to our Lord Jesus Christ.  - The Witness Online