Doorkeeper July 2025

ARIZONA STATE PRESIDENT: Julia M. Rodgers STATE REPORTER: Augus Hall

With the closing of spring and the ushering in of summer, the United Church Ushers of Arizona continued putting focus on assisting the Western Region with the preparation of hosting the 106 th National Convention in Phoenix, AZ in July, holding a successful golf tournament fundraiser, supporting annual usher days, attending the Western Region Conference, honoring the holy holiday of Easter, and observing the recognition of a Pastor.

On Friday, April 18, 2025, Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church held a special Good Friday service with a program produced by its Drama Ministry. Pilgrim Rest Ushers John Pirtle, Bertram Lyde, and Lorin Akers were members of the cast, with Brother Akers portraying the vital role of Jesus the Christ ( see picture to the right ). Also, those in attendance had the opportunity to have a nail fixed into the cross. The ushers and nurses of South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church concluded the Holy Week of Easter services on Sunday, April 20, 2025, by hosting the 6am Sunrise Service. The service’s theme was “Believe and Speak” with the supporting scriptures of II Corinthians 4:13-15. Assistant Minister Rev. Kenneth Hale delivered a thought-provoking message from the Lord on the theme. Following the service, a hearty breakfast consisting of bacon, sausage, ham, smothered chicken, grits, rice, eggs, biscuits, coffee, and juice was served with a side of fellowship.

Ten delegates representing the United Church Ushers of Arizona ( see picture below ) attended the 62 nd NUCUAA Western Region Conference in Denver, Colorado held Thursday, April 10, 2025, through Saturday, April 12, 2025. The delegates were totally involved in all the Conference’s proceedings from the general sessions to the Ruth I. Jones prayer breakfast to holding elected and appointed offices to supporting the education contest to having a drill team participate in the competition and then closing out the Conference with all delegates attending the Installation/Honoree Banquet. It was wonderful to see, to converse, and to handle the necessary region business with our fellow doorkeepers from the other Western States.

Helen B. Hornbuckle Doorkeeper