Dr. Jim Pounds, director of the Extension Division of Samford University in Birmingham, traveled to Andalusia on Nov. 11 to recognize students who had earned certificates in Christian training through studies in the extension program.

The presentation was made during the class at the Covington Baptist Association office.

Three students were awarded certificates in, which recognizes eight semesters of study. They were: the Rev. Bobby C. Rhodes, pastor of St. Peter Baptist Church, Andalusia; the Rev. Matthew Coleman, pastor of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, Gantt; and the Rev. Wendell Williams, pastor of Springhill Baptist Church, Dozier and Clayhill Baptist Church, Wilkin Town, Ala.

The Rev. John Lawrence was recognized with the second advanced certificate in Christian training, which is awarded for 24 semesters of study. He is the pastor of Piney Grove Baptist Church in Opp.

The mission of Samford Extension is to help Christians grow in Jesus and be trained to share God’s love and message.

The teacher, the Rev. Hank Roberts, who is a retired pastor that also teaches Bible studies and does supply preaching, was recognized for 16 years as teacher in the Covington Center. The Rev. Ed Ganus, pastor of Philadelphia Baptist Church, serves as director in the Covington Center.

Samford Extension is a ministry of the Covington Baptist Association, and classes in Andalusia began in September 1951 as Howard College Extension. The name was changed when Howard College became Samford University.

The next semester will begin Feb. 3, 2011, with the Rev. Roberts teaching Isaiah.