Celebration marks 60th anniversary of BVS work in Falfurrias, Texas.

The year 2008 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of a Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) project in Falfurrias, Texas. Falfurrias Church of the Brethren is holding a celebration of this anniversary on Saturday and Sunday March 8-9. The congregation is welcoming former BVS workers at Falfurrias, former church members, and friends of the community.

More than 140 BVS volunteers served in Falfurrias between 1948-68. The volunteers helped to build the Falfurrias Church and various farm buildings, and either built or improved the homes of many low-income families in the community, said the invitation from the church.

"Most importantly, BVS volunteers created an atmosphere of goodwill and service, and demonstrated God's love in daily practical acts," the invitation said. "The Falfurrias community was changed and improved by the Christian witness of the BVS volunteers. Many hundreds of Falfurrias residents were uplifted. Many persons have moved to other communities now, but continue to be active participants in community betterment and church activities wherever they live."

The celebration will include opportunities to meet former volunteers, church members, and old friends, as well as time to share stories and memories, look at pictures, and eat and fellowship. A written history of the work of BVS in Falfurrias will be available, along with pictures of volunteers and directors for the project, and updates of the results of some of the work BVS did in the community. Activities will start at noon on March 8.

"If you are unable to come, we invite you to send pictures and letters of greeting," said the church’s pastor, Stanley Bittinger. "Please let us hear from you." For more information contact Bittinger at 1614 Santa Cecilia, Kingsville, TX 78363; 361-592-5945; bittinger@cmaaccess.com.

Source: 1/16/2008 Newsline