Nearly a century-and-a-half ago, a simple, white-columned building arose in Butler County, as a congregation of the faithful came together to form Pine Flat Methodist Church.

Each October, descendants of the church's pioneer founders and their friends come together to celebrate the church's rich history. It's a time to worship, fellowship and remember their forefathers together.

On Sunday, Oct. 2, the faithful will mark yet another annual celebration at Pine Flat.

"We are so thankful for what we have been able to do to keep up this wonderful old church and its historic cemetery. We all look forward to our annual homecoming and decoration day," Mae Poole, a trustee of the Pine Flat Cemetery Association, said.

Founded in 1858, the original frame building was renovated in 1967 when descendants of those early families and their friends came together to carefully restore the historic church's pews, altars, pulpit and other areas.

Though the church no longer has regular services, its members, along with members of the cemetery association, work diligently to maintain the building, grounds and cemetery, Poole said.

The day will begin with a special worship service at 11 a.m. featuring guest speaker Rev. Cletice C. Ingram, Alabama-West Florida Conference (ret.).

Ingram's planned sermon title is "In His Steps" with scripture from Hebrews 11:29 and Hebrews Chapter 12, verses 1 and 2.

Mrs. Kenneth Renfroe, Hubbard Smith, and Mrs. Charles R. Terry, organist, will provide special music for the day.

Mrs. Hinote Watson will give the memorial service. Mr. and Mrs. McDuffie Stallworth will be registrars for the event.

Charles Terry III will serve as acolyte, with Catherine Ann Walker and Mary Helen Terry serving as usherettes.

An old-fashioned "dinner on the ground" will be served following the worship service.

Attendees are asked to bring a basket lunch, folding chairs and a folding table.

The day also serves as the church's official decoration day for its historic cemetery, Poole said.

The Trustees of the Pine Flat Cemetery Association cordially invite family and friends of Pine Flat Methodist Church to attend the Oct. 2 event.