MASS OF THE RESURRECTION IN THANKSGIVING FOR THE LIFE OF
SUNRISE: JUNE 17, 1946 SUNSET: JULY 31, 2018 72 YEARS OLD SERVICE HELD AT Our Lady & St. Stephen Anglican Church King Street Bailey Town, Bimini The Commonwealth Of The Bahamas August 17Th, 2018 @ Time: 11:00Am Officiant: Rev. Fr. Colin Saunders Organist Mr. Hugh Rolle Interment The Anglican Cemetery The Funeral Eucharist
The steps of the righteous are ordered of God. (Psalm 37:23) George and Lela Anderson of Deep Creek, Eleuthera embraced their 9th child the beautiful baby girl, Viola Withlene on June 17, 1946. Withlene’s formative years were spent in Eleuthera with her siblings. However, she stole her aunt’s heart (the one whose name she shared) and the bond between Auntie Withlene and her “Lil” Withlene was exceptional thereby making her the beneficiary of the two sisters’ abundant love. Auntie Withlene resided in Bimini and there she nurtured and protected her Lil Withlene until she became self- sufficient. Withlene attended the Government school in Alice Town, Bimini, Bahamas and shared a lifetime bond with her classmates. On completion of school she gained employment at the Bimini Big Game Club where she exceled in providing quality customer service, she believed that a person should always conduct themselves in a dignified manner. Her radiant smile was always acknowledged by her guests whether local or international dignitaries, but it also captivated a young bus boy named Donald, who pursued her persistently and on December 30th, 1964 Withlene and Donald were united in holy matrimony separated temporarily by death when her lifelong partner predeceased her on November 25, 2015. Tasha, Donald Shannon, Lopez (predeceased) and Donavaughn and subsequently her grand and great grand- children were her greatest joy and she boasted of her children’s every accomplishment. The couple loved their children unconditionally and made sacrifices to insure their children were provided for. This love was also extended to her step children Wilmore and Jacqueline. In the early years of their marriage the couple travelled to Florida for work where their nurturing personalities made them excellent caretakers for families. On returning to Bimini Withlene was reemployed at the Bimini Big Game Hotel and she and Don worked hard to construct a home and raise their children.
Lil Withlene had a heart of pure gold and no material possession was too precious or too good for her to give to family and friends. She loved and her love flowed in abundance and her home was a haven for ALL who needed or desired a place of refuge.
A loving sister who supported her siblings in all of their endeavours. Withlene was there whether physically, prayerfully or financially, she shared something special with each of them. Her youngest sister, Ettamae called her Mammy.
She kept an impeccably clean home, prepared scrumptious dishes (she cooked curried food better than the Jamaicans, and collard greens better than the Americans) and was so proud of her cooking ability. When Tasha heard her shout “Jesus, Saviour, pilot me” she knew someone did something wrong and more than likely it was “Shannon” as she preferred to call him, and they both knew what was next. Tasha and Shannon knew that she believed whole heartedly that “sparing the rod, spoilt the child.”
Her nieces and nephews meant the world to her and she bragged about how many of them she had. She absolutely loved spending time with them and many of them knew her home as their home
Her grand and great grandchildren all had an opportunity to live under Grammy’s roof and were all nurtured by her. She disciplined and taught them bible verses and took them to worship. However she made time to play monopoly, Uno and bingo with them, she travelled with them she took them to water parks and hosted barbeques and supported their undertakings for as long as she was physically able to keep up. Her favorite time was basketball season and she was a die-hard Miami Heat fan who knew the players’ strengths and weaknesses as well as any avid sport writer enjoying a lively exchange with her sons, son in law and nephew. Thanksgiving and Christmas were festive times and family came from all over to partake in the scrumptious feast prepared by Witty B’s hands. A graduation, birthday or wedding wasn’t complete unless Witty B was in attendance. Her surrogate children were nurtured, loved and supported with all that she could give them and in adulthood the bond between them has never been broken.
Her godchildren were very special to her and when she didn’t hear from them they would undoubtedly be told about their short comings when they met. Withlene cared for, supported and established lifelong friendships not only locally but internationally and she maintained and guarded them lovingly. Witty B, as she was affectionately called after her husband purchased a small open fishing boat and gave it her name, was a hard worker who detested laziness, liars, and thieves and she strongly instilled these values in her children. “The truth would set you free” she always said, however, Shannon learnt that the truth also got you a good beating if your truth meant you broke a rule. Tasha was dramatic and when her negotiations didn’t work to get out of a beating she would take to the streets running as if for her dear life only to see her then vibrant and energetic Mother running behind her. She developed the art of hiding in the smallest spaces until it was safe to return to her calm and loving mother. Lopez and Donavaughn didn’t have this experience and they should thank their older siblings for wearing her down. The couple purchased their first home in Miami Florida to provide a comfortable place for their children to pursue their dreams and it was during this time Withlene joined Upper Room Assembly of God and
chose them as her home church. She took evangelism classes and her home was the host home for a Youth Care Group where she made sure her children and grand- children were active participants. Withlene became passionate about witnessing and spreading the good news about her Lord and Saviour. She eagerly anticipated church conferences and retreats and learning and sharing the word of God. She had a strong desire to sojourn to the Holy Land and did so on a few occasions. She was the Doctor, who had no formal training who cared for and nurtured Lopez for 47 years and hundreds of hospital stays. She faithfully devoted herself to the care of her husband who was incapacitated for more than 10 years. She was faithfully at her daughter’s bedside for the delivery of her 3 grandsons in addition to safe deliveries of more than 15 other friends and family. We called her lawyer as she was always able to give wise counsel and sound advice. “Let me see, she’d say, and sure enough she had a solution. A best friend and a confidant to her children who entrusted her with their fears, their dreams and their most intimate thoughts. A prayer warrior always pleading the blood of Jesus over circumstances and situations. While experiencing her own health challenges Mammy, Moms, Grammy, Aunty, Witty B continued to provide care and support to her family. On July 23, 2018 she entered Baptist Hospital where she underwent a surgical procedure on July 30, 2018. On July 31, 2018 she departed this life to be in the presence of the Lord leaving an indelible impression in the hearts of her loved ones who will fondly cherish her memories, may she rest in peace. Children: Tasha (Sgt. 1121 Steven) Hamilton, Donald (Tassie), and Donavaughn Bullard, Wilmore (Mitzi) Stuart, Jacqueline (Stephen)Taylor;
Grandchildren: Nayvarro, Nayvin and Nayvaughnte Rolle, Dimagio, Donatha, Jonte, Donald Jr., Donaijah, Shannon, Dontre, Shandon, Shanvaughn and Kaiden Bullard, Rochelle Dewar, Draymore, Wilmore Jr., Willisha, Jarius, and Mitiajah Stuart; Great-Grandchildren: Arianna Stuart, Deanny , Dayjah and Deanna Bullard, Isaiah and Tarel Brennen, Amerie Stuart, Nai’Yana and Nay’Lani Rolle, Aaliyah Duncombe and Donald Kyle Bullard; Siblings: Geneva (Oral)Pinder, Donald (Icelyn) Anderson, Cyril (Vandelyn) Anderson, Rev. Leviticus (Earlene)Anderson. Deaconess Ellamae (Rev. Zilchus Thompson), Albertha Anderson, and Ettamae “Genie” Anderson; Surrogate Sisters: Jevieve Toote-Brennen & April Stuart; Sisters-In-Law: Leotha Anderson, Hannamae Anderson & Chloe Smith; Surrogate Children: Antoinette Anderson (Tavaughn Dean, Jukeara Brown), Paulita &Mark Lyder (Malik, Mekhi, and Maliyah), Orelle Smith (Khaliyah Smith,Jaylen and Willandria Brewer), Min. Maytha(Min,Kendall) Eneas, Suslin Leathers, Sharon(Jeremey) Pratt (Brittany Cartwright, Jayda Pratt) Alethia(Gillian)Rolle; Nephews & Nieces, Ashley Meadows, Sammy, David, Ezra, Wayde, Donald Jr., Leviticus, Demeco, Donridge, Syrano, Lance, Fabian, Gregory, Elroy, Devano, Darren and Mecos Anderson. Woodrow Grant, Alexander Gibson, Robert, Joseph, Walter and Kenedy Pinder, Douglas Brown, Prince, Marvin, Wayde, Lamone, and Neil Thompson, Rodwell and Maverick Richards, Glen Sands, Kenrick, Alliston, Javon, Diago, and Devin Anderson, Hylan (Hildarene) Smith, Aaron Smith, Doretta Edwards, Gertrude Clarke, Alarice & Olamae Anderson, Bernice Pinder, Bernell “Tip” Miller, Alceta Knowles, Roslyn Gibson, Desnye Smith, (Nassau) Dianne Rolle, Rebecca Cleare, Janet Stuart, Sheryl Deveaux, Letisha Anderson, Darnell Anderson, Tabatha Romer, Alerice Anderson, Carlotta Deveaux, Laverne Anderson, Nicolette Anderson, Sekera”Honey”(Pastor
Calvin Seymour), Arita Saunders, Deborah Rolle, Denise Clarke, Dedrie Bain, Claudette Anderson, Jelisa Crumble, Alicia Anderson, Desne Smith and Charmaine Saunders; Endeared to her heart: Rufus (Jenny) Anderson & Family, Gemma (Pastor Ernest) Andrew & Family, Judith Figaro, Pastor Mathias (Danielle), Vicky Brown & Family, Ola Smith, Antoinette Rolle, Cozetta Dukes, Dearon Smith; Beloved Cousins: Mellony Blanc & Family, Carolyn Storr & Family, SarahLee Curtis, Patricia Rolle-Saunders, Florine Saunders, Pastor Gilbert Rolle(Evette), Pastor Ingrid Ellis, Kelson Roberts, Merlene Saunders & Family, Arlington Rolle & Family, James Toote & Family, Robbie Smith & Family, Steve Smith & Family, Steve (Kim) Rolle & Family, Gene Rolle; God Children: Beth Dames, Margaret Knowles, Tammy Weech, Rueshan Anderson, Antanique Weech, Lissette Virgil, Melanie Lyder (Macon, Georgia), Shequira Gardiner, Rueshane Iredia, Kristen Moncur, Denise Edden, Patrice Pierre, Keirshea SmithAbouzeide (Miami, FL) Felician Ellis, Ryan Bastian, Phillip Ellis, Samuel McClendon (Macon, Georgia), Teachlette Pierre, Jani Pierre, Shedrick Ellis, and Devard Dames; Endeared friends and Family: George & Curlene Weech, Bishop Marvin & Yolanda Weech, Portia Stuart, Rugeno & Aliah Anderson, Ingrid Chong & Christina Russell (Orlando, FL), Antonio (Sharri) Saunders Deron (Cherie) Hinzey; Friends and Extended Family: The Anderson Family of Deep Creek, Eleuthera, Sterling & Norma Wilkinson & Family, Charlie Wilkinson & Family, Esther-Mae Weech, Roslyn Dean & Family, Basil(Roslyn)Sherman, James(Estelle)Rolle, Neville Rolle & Family, Judith, Naaman & Bruce Rolle, Barbara Hanna(Family), Rev. John & Sheryl Saunders, Yvonique “Neke” Bastian, Teresa Hanna-Carey, Albertha Russell-Ali, Charlice Ellis, Claudette Rolle, Shaneah Gray, Henretta Rolle, Geraldine Brown, Agnes Saunders & Family, Flossie Symonette, Pastor Dexter & Terez Rolle, Pastor Mathias & Danielle Grehn & Family, Pastor Bruce Klepp & Upper Room Assemblies of God, Pastor Jim Gow, Pastor Ed & Birdie Payne (Alaska), Pastor Teachlette Pierre, Sonja Andersen (Miami, FL), Raymond & Aminda McClendon(Macon, Georgia), Gerald & Zeneth Rolle (Freeport), Charles & Shaniquia Russell (Freeport), Capt. Patrick Brown, David & Laurice Rolle, Lloyd & Brenda Edgecombe, Steve & Kim Rolle, Martha Stuart & Family, Matthew Stuart & Family, Percell & Philomenia Rolle, Agnes Saunders & Family, Rocky Saunders, Presley “Barbie” & Lisa Saunders, Cora Brown & Family, Beatrice Thompson, Ruthmae Dames, Autrey Russell, & The Bimini Intercessory Prayer Group,.
Order of Service -Reception of the BodyThe Celebrant meets the body and says: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the remains of our sister, Viola Withlene for burial. Our sister Viola Withlene was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the Giver of Life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the Saints. Celebrant: Congregation: Celebrant:
The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us pray.
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister Viola Withlene. We thank you for giving her to us, her family and friends, to know and love as a companion on her earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Congregation:
Amen.
The following sentences are read: Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and I am the life; he who believes in me. Though he dies, yet shall he live, and who ever lives and believes in me shall never die. (John 11:25-26) The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed. (Lamentations 3:22-23) Jesus said, let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. (John 14:1) I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Roman 8:38-39) If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s for to this end Christ died and lived again. That he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living. (Romans 14:8-9) We brought nothing into the world, and we take nothing out. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away: Blessed be the name of the Lord. (Job 1:21) The eternal God is our refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33:27)
Introit Hymn | When morning gilds the skies When morning gilds the skies, My heart awaking cries: May Jesus Christ be praised! Alike at work and prayer, To Jesus I repair; May Jesus Christ be praised! Does sadness fill my mind? A solace here I find, May Jesus Christ be praised! Or fades my earthly bliss? My comfort still is this, May Jesus Christ be praised! When sleep her balm denies, My silent spirit sighs, May Jesus Christ be praised! When evil thoughts molest, With this I shield my breast: May Jesus Christ be praised! The night becomes as day When from the heart we say:
May Jesus Christ be praised! The powers of darkness fear When this sweet chant they hear: May Jesus Christ be praised! In heaven’s eternal bliss The loveliest strain is this, May Jesus Christ be praised! Let earth, and sea, and sky From depth to height reply, May Jesus Christ be praised! Be this, while life is mine, My song of love divine: May Jesus Christ be praised! Sing this eternal song Through all the ages long: May Jesus Christ be praised!
VIOLA WITHLENE’S STORY | Paulita Lyder (Surrogate Daughter) SOLO | Pastor Judith Rolle (Childhood Friend) TRIBUTE | Minister Maytha Eneas CONDOLENCES | Bishop Marvin Weech (Bible Teacher’s International) BIMINI INTECESSORY PRAYER GROUP | Dec. Autrey Russell PASTORS MUSICAL TRIBUTE | Min. Oslien Jardotte (Family Friend) Celebrant:
Let us pray.
Almighty God, we remember before you today your servant Viola Withlene and we pray that, having opened to her the gates of larger life you will receive her more and more into your joyful service that, with all who have served you in the past, she may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; Who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Congregation: Amen. The congregation sits for the Liturgy of the Word.
-THE LITURGY OF THE WORDOLD TESTAMENT LESSON | Nayvarro Rolle (Grand Son) | Psalm 90 Vs. 1-12 Reader: The Word Of The Lord. All: Thanks Be To God Second Letload Jesus into your heart If you areHymn tired of| the of come your sin, Let Jesus come into your heart; If you desire a new life to begin, Let Jesus come into your heart.
If there’s a tempest your voice cannot still, Let Jesus come into your heart; If there’s a void this world never can fill, Let Jesus come into your heart.
Refrain: Just now, your doubtings give o’er; Just now, reject Him no more; Just now, throw open the door; Let Jesus come into your heart.
If you would join the glad songs of the blest, Let Jesus come into your heart; If you would enter the mansions of rest, Let Jesus come into your heart.
If it’s for purity now that you sigh, Let Jesus come into your heart; Fountains for cleansing are flowing nearby, Let Jesus come into your heart. NEW TESTAMENT LESSON | Kristen Moncur (God Daughter) | Thessalonian 4 Vs 13-18 Reader: The Word Of The Lord All: Thanks Be To God Hymn: Spirit Of The Living God, Fall Afresh On Me Spirit Of The Living God, Fall Afresh On Me Break Me, Melt Me, Mold Me, Fill Me Spirit Of The Living God, Fall Afresh On Me THE HOLY GOSPEL | JOHN 14: 1-6 SELECTION | The Choir SERMON | Fr. Colin Saunders At the conclusion of the sermon, the congregation stands, and is led in the Nicene Creed Celebrant:
Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith, into which we were baptized, as we say,
ALL: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, he Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. THE PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION, LED BY | Beth Dames & Margaret Knowles (Godchildren) Leader: For our sister Viola Withlene let us pray to the Lord Christ who said, “I am Resurrection and I am life.” Leader: Lord, you consoled Martha and Mary in their distress: Draw near to us who mourn for Viola Withlene, and dry the tears of those who weep. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: You wept at the grave of Lazarus, your friend, comfort us in our sorrow. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: You raised the dead to life: Raise our sister Viola Withlene, to eternal life. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: You promised paradise to the thief who repented: Bring our sister Viola Withlene to the joys of heaven. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: Our sister, Viola Withlene was washed in Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit: Give her fellowship with all your saints. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: She was nourished with your Body and Blood: Grant her a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister, Viola Withlene Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope. Silence may be kept. Celebrant: Lord Jesus Christ, wecommend to you our sister Viola Withlene, who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy Baptism. Grant that her death may recall to us your victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your Father’s love. Give us, we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way; and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, to the ages of ages. Congregation:
Amen.
The congregation kneels for the Act of Penitence.
-THE ACT OF PENITENCECelebrant: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. A period of silence shall be kept. Celebrant:
Let us therefore confess our sins.
All: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and one another, in thought, word, and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve you in newness of life to the glory of Your name. Amen. Celebrant: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. All:
Amen.
Celebrant: We are the body of Christ. By the One Spirit we were all baptized into one Body and have all been made to drink of the one Spirit. All:
Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life.
Celebrant:
The peace of the Lord be always with you.
All:
And also with you.
-The Presentation Of The Offering-
By Rochelle Dewar, Jonte Bullard & Mitiajah Stuart (GRAND-DAUGHTERS) The Offertory Hymn | How Great Thou Art O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder Consider all The works Thy Hand hath made, I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder, Thy pow’r throughout The universe displayed,
Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art! How great Thou art!
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander I hear the birds Sing sweetly in the trees, When I look down, From lofty mountain grandeur And hear the brook, And feel the gentle breeze,
When Christ shall come, With shouts of acclamation, And take me home, What joy…
Celebrant: Through Your goodness Lord we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands they will become our spiritual food. ALL: All things come from you O Lord and of your own do we give you Blessed be God forever. Amen Hymn: For All The Saints For all the saints, who from their labors rest, who thee by faith before the world confessed, thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest. Alleluia, Alleluia! 2. Thou wast their rock, their fortress, and their might; thou Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight; thou in the darkness drear, their one true light. Alleluia, Alleluia! 3. O may thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold, fight as the saints who nobly fought of old, and win with them the victor’s crown of gold. Alleluia, Alleluia!
4. O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; yet all are one in thee, for all are thine. Alleluia, Alleluia! 5. And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, steals on the ear the distant triumph song, and hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia, Alleluia! 6. From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost: Alleluia, Alleluia!
-COMMUNION HYMNS-
Here O My Lord I See Thee Face to Face 1 Here, O our Lord, we see you face to face. Here would we touch and handle things unseen, here grasp with firmer hand eternal grace, and all our weariness upon you lean. 2 Here would we feed upon the bread of God, here drink with you the royal cup of heaven; here would we lay aside each earthly load, and taste afresh the calm of sin forgiven. 3 This is the hour of banquet and of song; Here let us feast and, feasting, still prolong the fellowship of living wine and bread. This is the heavenly table for us spread
4 Too soon we rise; the symbols disappear. The feast, though not the love, is past and gone; the bread and wine remove, but you are here, nearer than ever, still our shield and sun. 5 Feast after feast thus comes and passes by, yet, passing, points to that glad feast above, giving sweet foretaste of the festal joy, the Lamb’s great bridal feast of bliss and love
I am the Bread of Life I am the Bread of life, He who comes to Me shall not hunger, He who believes in Me shall not thirst. No one can come to Me Unless the Father draw him. And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up on the last day. The bread that I will give Is My flesh for the life of the world, And he who eats of this bread, He shall live for ever, He shall live for ever. And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up on the last day. Unless you eat Of the flesh of the Son of Man And drink of His blood, And drink of His blood, You shall not have life within you. And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up on the last day. I am the Resurrection, I am the Life, He who believes in Me Even if he die, He shall live for ever. And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up on the last day. Yes, Lord, we believe That You are the Christ, The Son of God Who has come Into the world. And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up, And I will raise him up on the last day.
Pleasant are Thy courts above, In the land of light and love; Pleasant are Thy courts below In this land of sin and woe; O, my spirit longs and faints For the converse of Thy saints, For the brightness of Thy face, For Thy fullness, God of grace. Happy birds that sing and fly Round Thy altars, O most High; Happier souls that find a rest In a heavenly Father’s breast; Like the wandering dove that found No repose on earth around, They can to their ark repair, And enjoy it ever there. Happy souls, their praises flow Even in this vale of woe; Waters in the desert rise, Manna feeds them from the skies; On they go from strength to strength, Till they reach Thy throne at length, At Thy feet adoring fall, Who hast led them safe through all. Lord, be mine this prize to win, Guide me through a world of sin, Keep me by Thy saving grace, Give me at Thy side a place; Sun and shield alike Thou art, Guide and guard my erring heart. Grace and glory flow from Thee; Shower, O shower them, Lord, on me.
-POST COMMUNION PRAYERAll: Almighty God, we thank you that in Your great love You have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of Your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be to us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom, where there is no death, neither sorrow nor crying, but the fullness of joy with your saints; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen POST COMMUNION HYMN | Through All The Changing Scenes Of Life Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.
Oh, make but trial of His love, Experience will decide How blest they are, and only they, Who in His truth confide.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me, With me exalt His name; When in distress to Him I called, He to my rescue came.
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight, Your wants shall be His care.
The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance He affords to all Who on His succor trust. The entire congregation including the bereaved family is asked to stand for The Commendation
-THE COMMENDATION President: Blessed be God our Father. Congregation: The Creator and Preserver of all life. President: Blessed be Jesus Christ. Congregation: The Saviour and Redeemer of mankind. President: Blessed be the Holy Spirit. Congregation: The Enabler and Sustainer of those who seek for grace. President: Congregation:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
President: Grant us, Lord, the wisdom and the grace to use aright the time that is left to us here on earth. Lead us to repent of our sins. The evil we have done and the good we have failed to do; and strengthen us to follow the steps of your son, in the way that leads to the fullness of eternal life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. All:
Amen.
President:
Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints.
All:
Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
President:
ou only are immortal, the creator and maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the Y earth, and to earth shall we return. For so did You ordain when You created me, saying, you are dust, and to dust you shall return. All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
All: Give rest, O Christ, to Your servant with Your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. President:
Lord have mercy
ALL: Christ have mercy President:
Lord have mercy
ALL: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name; Your kingdom come; Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are Yours, now and forever. Amen. The President facing the remains says: Let us commend our sister Viola Withlene to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver Your servant, Viola Withlene, O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set her free from every bond, that she may rest with all Your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit You live and reign, one God forever and ever. All:
Amen.
President: Into Your hands, O merciful Savior, We commend your servant Viola Withlene Acknowledge; we humbly beseech You, a sheep of Your own fold, a lamb of Your own flock, a sinner of Your own redeeming. Receive her into the arms of Your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. All:
Amen.
President:
The Lord be with you
All:
And also with you.
President:
Rest Eternal grant unto her soul O Lord
All:
And let light perpetual shine upon him
President:
May she rest in peace
All:
Amen
President:
Let us go forth in the name of Christ
All: Thanks be to God.
Recessional Hymn As the remains are borne from the church, the following verses are said: Christ is raised from the dead, trampling down death by death, and giving life to those in the tomb. The Son of Righteousness is gloriously risen, giving light to those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death. The Lord will guide our feet into the way of peace, having taken away the sin of the World. Christ will open the kingdom of heaven to all who believe in His name, saying, Come, O blessed of My Father; inherit the kingdom prepared for you. Into paradise may the angels lead you! At your coming may the Martyrs receive you, and bring you into the Holy City, Jerusalem. Recessional Hymn: And Can It Be And Can It Be And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain— For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? ’Tis mystery all: th’Immortal dies: Who can explore His strange design? In vain the firstborn seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore; Let angel minds inquire no more.
Still the small inward voice I hear, That whispers all my sins forgiven; Still the atoning blood is near, That quenched the wrath of hostile Heaven. I feel the life His wounds impart; I feel the Savior in my heart. I feel the life His wounds impart; I feel the Savior in my heart.
He left His Father’s throne above So free, so infinite His grace— Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race: ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, For O my God, it found out me! ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, For O my God, it found out me! Long my imprisoned spirit lay, Fast bound in sin and nature’s night; Thine eye diffused a quickening ray— I woke, the dungeon flamed with light; My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee. My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach th’eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own. Bold I approach th’eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
GRAVESIDE HYMNS When peace, like a river When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. Refrain: It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul. My sin—oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!— My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul. But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord! Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul! And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul. It is Finished There’s a line that is drawn through the ages On that line stands an old rugged cross On that cross, a battle is raging To gain a man’s soul or it’s loss On one side, march the forces of evil All the demons, all the devils of hell On the other, the angels of glory And they meet on Golgotha’s hill The earth shakes with the force of the conflict And the sun refuses to shine For there hangs God’s son, in the balance And then through the darkness he cries It is finished, the battle is over It is finished, there’ll be no more war It is finished, the end of the conflict It is finished and Jesus is Lord
I’ll Fly Away Some glad morning when this life is o’er, I’ll fly away. To that home on God’s celestial shore, I’ll fly away. I’ll fly away, oh glory, I’ll fly away. When I die, Hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away. Just a few more weary days and then, I’ll fly away. To that land where joy will never end, I’ll fly away. I’ll fly away, oh glory, I’ll fly away. When I die, Hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away. Oh I’ll fly away, oh glory, I’ll fly away in the morning When I die, Hallelujah, by and by, I’ll fly away.
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging Not all prisoners of war had come home These were battlefields of my own making I didn’t know that the war had been won Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages Had fought all the battles for me And that victory was mine for the claiming And now praise his name, I am free
Active Pall bearers Donald S. Bullard
Donavaughn Bullard Wilmore Stuart
Steven Hamilton
Dimagio Bullard
Nayvarro Rolle
Draymore Stuart
Malik Lyder
Donald S. Bullard Jr. Nayvin Rolle
Wilmore Stuart Jr.
Felician Ellis
Shannon D. Bullard
Jarius Stuart
Phillip Ellis
Nayvaughnte Rolle
Honourary Pall bearers Rev. Leviticus Anderson
Cyril Anderson
Aaron Smith
Hylan Smith
Patrick Brown
David Rolle
Presely Saunders
Sterling Wilkinson
Mark Lyder
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