Music, speakers and a tribute the late Mayor Neil Perry were part of the thanksgiving service at First Baptist Church on Oct. 19. 

“This is a dual celebration to thank the community for its support of our painting project and to celebrate our long existence in the community,” said the Rev. Nathaniel Burnes, pastor. 

The white clapboard church, established in 1815, was painted from top to bottom for the first time in 20 years in September at a cost of $100,000.

Rose Maria Redman, president of the Methuen Festival of Trees, presented a check for $20,000 to Burnes at the service. Other donations came from church members and local businesses.

Acting Mayor DJ Beauregard spoke about Neil Perry as a photo of the late mayor was projected on the walls of the sanctuary. 

Beauregard said Burnes was by Perry’s side as he battled many illnesses “that diminished his body but failed to diminish his spirit.”

Other speakers were Robert Chase, owner of Pollard Funeral Home, and the Rev. Dr. Mary Day Miller, executive director of the American Baptist Church in Massachusetts.

Musical entertainment was provided by Lura Smith; Adullam Christian Church, a Hispanic congregation that worships at First Baptist; and The Choral Majority who sang songs highlighting unity.