Written by: Anna Stevens Bright
Photo by: Herman G. Bright
One year ago the South Carolina United Methodist Church Conference assigned student pastor Reverend Destine M. Spells as the Pastor of Cumberland and Isaiah United Methodist Churches. On Saturday, July 16, 2023, Cumberland’s fellowship hall, beautifully decorated in a blue and white color scheme, was the setting of Pastor Spells’ first pastoral anniversary for both churches. “A New Horizon is Coming” was the theme. Michael Martin served as the master of ceremonies. The Scripture was read by Diamond Martin, which was followed with the invocation by Minister Anna S. Bright. Annette Martin welcomed all attendees. Jestine McLauren sang a beautiful rendition of “One Day at a Time.”
The anniversary speaker, Elder Doris Bright formerly of Walterboro, was introduced by Ellaree Murray. Prior to the message for the celebration, the crowd was entertained with two very uplifting selections by Pastor Spells’ cousin, Cadra Salley. Elder Bright, the current Pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church in Johns Island, South Carolina, delivered a soul-stirring message honoring Pastor Spells.
After the message, Smalls Catering served a delicious full-course meal for the event. Officers and members from both churches and the honoree’s family made remarks and presentations to Pastor Spells after the meal. Prior to the closing of the anniversary service, her aunt, Patricia Salley, led the congregation in a prayer of covering for her niece, and Pastor Spells expressed words of appreciation and gave the benediction. Peter Lisbon served as the chairman for this momentous occasion. Reverend Spells was born in Newport News, VA. She is the daughter of Apostle Christopher Spells and Pastor Christina Spells. Her family resides in Virginia while currently conducting ministry at Harvest Church International. She enjoys studying the word of God, spending time with her family, and engaging in fitness. Her goals are to complete her degree at Liberty University with a GPA of 3.5 or higher to excel in her educational vocations, and advance in the development of God’s calling on her life in Pastoral ministry. Although she is from Virginia, she has ties to the Lowcountry. Her paternal grandparents are Mrs. Fannie Spells and the late Deacon MacArthur Spells of St. George, South Carolina. Her maternal grandmother is Ms. Ida Mae Carbullido of Raleigh, North Carolina. Several members of her family attended the anniversary celebration. Reverend Spells served in the United States Army for eight years. When asked what is the most valuable lesson she has learned during her first year as a pastor, Reverend Spells responded, “The magnitude of faith one has determines the progression of moving forward in life in all aspects, and to experience the evidence of God’s being a very present help in the time of need.” Further, she said that one of her most rewarding experiences since becoming a pastor has been to be able to show hope to people of all ages that God is real, and His love conquers all.
