This year’s celebration will take place on Sunday, January 19, 2025, during worship at 10am. Our guest speaker, Persephone Hall, has chosen "Ready? Set... Go!!" to be the title of her message, which she will present during worship, followed by brunch and Q & A's, in Friendship Hall.

Minister Persephone L. Hall grew up in Canton, Ohio and started her ministry by singing in the adult choir at the People's Baptist Church at 12. She continued ministering at Ohio University, receiving a Bachelor's degree in Communication and a Master's degree in College Student Personnel.  Persephone moved to Connecticut in 1986, where God began using her musical gifts, and in 1992, she became a licensed minister. Persephone has been invited to speak for Women's Day celebrations, lead Bible studies and minister at special events. At the Liberty Christian Center, Hartford, Persephone was appointed by her former pastor, Dr. Keith Bolton, over 20 years ago, to serve as the Worship Coordinator. Under the leadership of her current Sr. Pastor, Dr. Corey James, she continues to support the logistical and administrative aspects of each worship service.  Persephone has led Praise and Worship workshops throughout Connecticut and in her home state of Ohio. She has served in many roles in the historic Connecticut Conference and the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ and is the current President of the Board. Professionally, Persephone is grateful to have enjoyed a career in leadership roles in human resources and career services at Wesleyan University and Connecticut College. She is in her 9th academic year as the Executive Director of the Hale Center for Career Development. Persephone lives in Southington with her husband Minister Lawrence Hall, and together, they have three adult children.