Columbia, SC (WLTX) — For more than 30 years, Dr. Wendell Estep has served as pastor of First Baptist Church in Columbia. And Sunday marked the final time he spoke to his congregation.
Hundreds packed the church Sunday afternoon to honor Dr. Estep and his wife Lynda.
"They are godly people that love the lord," says Nedra Smith, a member of First Baptist Church. "They love people and want people to know the love of Christ and bring them to know Christ."
Since 1986, the Estep family has stood at the forefront of one of Columbia's largest churches, making an impact on not just their congregation, but also on the community.
Now, after 32 years of ministry at First Baptist, Dr. Wendell Estep has retired. The church and members of the community honored the Esteps' legacy of service Sunday evening.
Several familiar faces honored the Esteps at the service, including Governor Henry McMaster, Senators Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott, Congressman Joe Wilson and friend and fellow pastor Charles Jackson, Sr.
“South Carolina is a better place, probably the entire country, certainly Columbia. This is one of the sources of strength, this is one of the rocks that makes South Carolina strong and the work that they have done Is magnificent.” Gov. McMaster said.
After the service ended, the Esteps shared their love and appreciation to everyone who came out to the service.
"All of you, you are a special people to me, and I’ll always love you. God bless you, and thank you for this evening,” Dr. Estep said.
Dr. Estep and his wife will now attend Village Church in Blythewood, where their son serves as pastor.