10/11/2026
A Heartfelt Thank You from Braden United Methodist Church Legacy Gala
What a beautiful evening of remembrance, celebration, and fellowship!
On behalf of the Braden United Methodist Church Homecoming Committee, we extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended and supported our 118th Homecoming Legacy Gala.
We offer a very special thank you to the Allen family, who traveled from near and far to celebrate the remarkable matriarchs of their family and honor the legacy of three generations of faith, family, and love. Your presence made this occasion especially meaningful. We continue to lift Mrs. Shirley Kynard in prayer as she recovers, and we send our love and warmest wishes to her and the entire family.
We gratefully acknowledge our speakers, Kathy Moore and Audrey Johnson, for their thoughtful contributions; Rev. Davis for offering our opening prayer; and Councilwoman Cerssandra McPherson for presenting a special proclamation from the City of Toledo commemorating this historic occasion.
A special expression of gratitude goes to our dedicated committee and volunteers whose creativity, commitment, and service brought this vision to life:
Yolanda Durden – Co-Chair and co-visionary, whose gifts in administration, design, décor, and event management were invaluable throughout this journey.
Angela Vine – Culinary Director, for coordinating our food and hospitality, setting up and at the closing of the event and kitchen.
Marcella Pryor Brown – For her contributions to décor, meal preparation and service and helping with setting up.
Baendu Williams of B Wreathes and Treats – For sharing her beautiful creativity and talents in décor and design.
Randall Jones – For providing security and helping ensure a welcoming environment for our guests.
To everyone who prepared or donated food, assisted behind the scenes, helped with setup and cleanup, or contributed in any way, we are truly grateful.
And to our beloved Braden members and friends, thank you for your continued love, generosity, encouragement, and support. Your presence and participation remind us that the legacy of Braden is not simply found in its history, but in the people who continue to carry it forward.
As we celebrate 118 years, may we continue to honor those who came before us while opening our doors and hearts to the generations yet to come.
The Doors Are Open!
We would love to see your memories from this special evening! If you captured photos, please tag Braden United Methodist Church in your posts or share them with us through Messenger or by email at [email protected].
With heartfelt appreciation,
Braden UMC 118th Homecoming Committee