BY AMANDA PEVEY
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
TOP PHOTO: PASTOR CHANCE SANGSTER AND WIFE STEPHANIE SANGSTER WITH THEIR TWO CHILDREN
Grandview Pines Baptist Church held its annual Fall Festival at Art Faulkner’s Farm in Millbrook, Alabama on November 5th. The event was from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The evening was full of fun and fellowship for all of the members and friends of Grandview Pines Baptist Church.
There were over 52 church family and friends that attended. There was a contest between the men and women that attended the event. A chili cookoff for the men and whoever had the best chili won a prize. A dessert contest for the ladies and whoever made the best dessert won a prize. Children who did not want to eat chili, had the option of a hot dog if they wanted one. Chance Sangster is the pastor for Grandview Pines Baptist Church.
This year marks the 15th year the Fall Festival has been held at the Art Faulkner Farm. Faulkner is the Treasurer and Deacon of Grandview Pines Baptist Church. Only one of the 15 years, the fall festival was held at the church. A special birthday celebration was also held for Josiah Decker who turned 15 on November 5th. Everyone sang the “Happy Birthday” song to him and made his night very special. Josiah’s parents are April and Jared Decker. Pastor Jared Decker passed away in December 2018 unexpectedly. He is missed to this day by all who knew him.
Faulkner and his wife Shanna have been married for 24 years. Faulkner owns 60 acres of land and it was all family farm land that has been passed down to him over time. Faulkner’s great-granddaddy, William Edward Blankenship, owned over 900 acres years ago.
“The Fall Festival is always held one week after Halloween. We’re celebrating as a Christian organization, it’s a get together for our fall celebration. It is a time to celebrate what God has done throughout the year. It is a place for people to come together and enjoy the outdoors and fellowship with one another,” said Faulkner.
A bouncy house, football games, cornhole, hayrides, and a big bonfire to roast marshmallows were just many things that happened at the fall festival. Children could also “fish” for a surprise which consisted of a bag of marshmallows, chocolate bar, and graham crackers so they could enjoy a s’more treat.
“I love the football game we played. I enjoy being around our church family and friends and interacting with our young children. It was a great time to fellowship with everyone,” said Pastor Sangster.
If you would like more information on Grandview Pines Baptist Church, please visit their Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/grandviewpinesbaptistchurch. You can reach the office at: (334) 285-5125 or visit their website: www.mygpbc.com.
