Story and photos submitted by Dalaina Horton
The Saint Bartley Primitive Baptist Church Shepherd’s Ministry hosted a heartfelt and elegant celebration honoring First Lady Victoria Mooney on Saturday, March 28, at the Huntsville Country Club, located at 2601 Oakwood Avenue.
The event, fittingly titled “A Celebration of Grace and Faith,” brought together church members, family, and lifelong friends for an afternoon filled with inspiration, love, and fellowship. Guests were welcomed with appetizers and the smooth, melodic sounds of saxophonist Mr. Willie “Jazzanova” Davis, setting a warm and uplifting tone for the occasion.
The Honorable Sybil Cleveland-Pennywell served as mistress of the ceremony, guiding attendees through a program that highlighted both the spiritual and personal impact of First Lady Mooney’s leadership. The keynote speaker, former First Lady Minister Vonda Yates of Zion Hope Primitive Baptist Church in Pensacola, Florida, delivered a powerful message reflecting on the unique role of a first lady in ministry.
Minister Yates spoke candidly about the scrutiny often placed on women in such positions, while praising Lady Mooney for embracing her authenticity and faithfully walking in her calling as both a woman of God and a pastor’s wife.
Following lunch, guests were treated to a special musical performance by Jazz McKenzie, a top-six finalist on The Voice, whose vocals added a dynamic, soulful touch to the celebration.
In a touching moment, First Lady Mooney was visibly moved upon seeing Minister Yates, sharing that she had spoken with her just days before and was deeply grateful for the surprise. She expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Shepherd’s Ministry for their thoughtfulness and attention to every detail.
Closing remarks were delivered by Co-Chair Mother Peggy Etheridge, followed by a closing prayer from Pastor Jaymes R. Mooney, St. Bartley’s pastor and devoted husband.
The celebration served as a beautiful reminder of faith, service, and the power of community.