What brought you to Wilshire and when?
I joined with my parents on Nov. 7, 1954. Natalie and Marshal Cook are listed as being members #349 and #350. My name, Patricia Cook, was not listed in the official church roster; I claim age discrimination as I was just two months shy of my 12th birthday. I had been on the cradle roll at Gaston Avenue Baptist Church, and at age 7 I was the first person to be baptized in their new sanctuary.
Who was pastor when you joined?
Huber Drumwright. Although I was not a member of Wilshire from 1965 to 1977, I can proudly say I’ve been a member during the tenure of every senior pastor we have had.
What was the building like back then?
I think my fondest memory of the old building is Wednesday night prayer meeting in Fellowship Hall. I loved the stage and the permanent side rooms and going through the Wednesday night serving line “cafeteria style.”
What ministries or staff members have impacted your life?
Janie Bell was my youth minister, and she led our Sunday night fellowship. My favorite memory was a bus trip she led to Toronto, Canada, for the Baptist World Youth Conference in 1958. After returning to Wilshire, I was greatly impacted by the ministry of Carolyn Shapard. When I called her to complain that there was not a Library Committee, she said, “Well, let’s start one, and you are the chair.” She was always supportive, and we worked hard but also had lots of laughs. I also loved working with Jessica Capps and helping her with our homebound ministry. Last but definitely not least, Mark Wingfield was my favorite “let’s get stuff done” minister. I had a vision to install wayfinding signage throughout the church, and Mark made it happen.
What things are different and what has stayed the same?
Indeed, we have made lots of changes through the years, like approving women deacons and ministers. But the one thing about Wilshire that has been consistent throughout the years is the welcoming spirit of the congregation.
Why have you stayed so long?
I love this sacred space we call Wilshire. I have no doubt the reason I’m still here is because of the people who care, who support and who share similar values. I come to church for the handshakes, the hugs and the genuine concern. Wilshire makes me smile.