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The First United Methodist Church in Brewton hosted a drive-thru “Senior Recognition Parade.” Finding a way to recognize the class, the church provided a creative event that allowed families and friends to gather. A tradition of the church, the service looked a bit different than years past. “Every May, our church hosts an event called Senior Recognition Sunday. We usually honor the seniors in the service and then have a luncheon for them and their families afterwards,” said Brittany Fuqua, organizer of the event.
With the cancelation of this event, members of the church started rethinking the event. “When we realized that wouldn’t be happening this year, a couple ladies in the church and I started brainstorming about an alternative. This came the Senior Recognition Parade,” said Fuqua.
At the event, each senior stood under a tent with decorations commemorating their time in high school. Families joined each senior and the tents lined the side of the parking lot parallel to the church. The “drive-thru” aspect came when friends and other family members drove by each senior congratulating them. From signs on the side of cars to words of encouragement, those that attended the event recognized each senior. For the senior class, it was a sweet moment. Fuqua shared, “I think the seniors did enjoy it. They got to see each other for the first time in awhile and also were able to feel connected to those from the church, their families, and friends who came through.”

Above, church members drove by each senior during the special time of recognition. Top right, the church has eight graduating seniors from the area. Bottom right, members decorated cars much like this one, celebrating the class of 2020.
Submitted photos