Maranatha Baptist Church honored Pastor Steve Conwell on Feb. 6. Conwell has served the congregation and the community for 35 years.

Conwell and his late wife, Marie, grew up in Roanoke Rapids, N.C. An electrician by trade, Conwell was called into the ministry and the young family moved to Lynchburg where he graduated from what is now known as Liberty University with a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Divinity from Liberty University School of Divinity. The family moved to Farmville in 1981 where Conwell has continuously served as Maranatha’s pastor.

The special surprise celebration included testimonials on the impact Conwell has had over the duration of the ministry, a presentation of a plaque and a special time of fellowship.

Maranatha Baptist Church is located on Tuggle Road in Prince Edward County. In addition to the church ministry, Conwell writes a ministerial column for The Farmville Herald. He also offers a “Thought for the Day,” heard mornings on WFLO and WVHL radio stations.