Many guests awaited the arrival of Emma Bradley, first lady of the General Assembly of the Church of the Living God, in the church’s reception hall to surprise her at a dinner birthday party, and they were not disappointed when she appeared in total shock.
The event was planned by her family members and her husband, Elder Samuel T. Bradley, who is the pastor of the church.
“I was totally surprised and delighted to see so many of my wonderful relatives and church friends, especially when I thought I was attending another affair secretly arranged by a couple of my neighbors,” said Lady Bradley.
Celebrating her 80th birthday, the affair was ideal for gathering her extensive family, which included her daughter, son-in-law, sons, sisters, brothers, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
In addition to a delicious meal, the guests enjoyed soothing music and beautiful decorations with the words, “Happy Birthday,” on a giant balloon on the head table. Also, small star-shaped balloons, flowers and individual guest souvenirs were on each table.
Several family members shared short and often funny reminiscences about Emma, causing guests to laugh out loud. In addition, everyone was delighted by the dramatic praise dance performed by her granddaughter.
As Emma addressed the audience, she gave thanks to the guests and family members who arranged the birthday party and ended by thanking God for giving her another year of life and wonderful relatives and friends.