Ordination Celebration held for Pastor Emery Polelonema
Richfield, UT – First Baptist Church, Centerfield, Utah held an ordination service for Emery Polelonema, a long-time member of Sevier Valley Baptist Church (formerly First Baptist Church Richfield), long-time pulpit supply for churches in Central Utah. For the past two years, Emery has served as pastor at First Baptist Church, Centerfield after former pastor, Nathan Simmons, passed away from cancer. The service took place in Richfield on January 23, 2022.
An ordination council was organized with area pastors and the Executive Director of Utah-Idaho Southern Baptist Convention. Perry Causey, current interim pastor of Sevier Valley Baptist Church, Don Carter, former pastor and interim pastor, First Baptist Church, Mt Pleasant, current Pastor Addam Swapp, Horseshoe Mountain Christian Fellowship (formerly First Baptist Church, Mt Pleasant), and Rob Lee, Utah-Idaho Southern Baptist Convention. The council questioned the candidate under Don Carter’s leadership and Rob serving as the clerk for council. Emery shared his testimony of receiving Christ as Lord and Savior at First Baptist Church, Richfield in 1983.
Rob shared that having known Emery for nearly thirty years and having sat in Bible studies and sermons preached by candidate that this was an enjoyable time to recognize God’s call on Emery’s life. Emery has also served two full terms on the Executive Board for the Utah-Idaho Southern Baptist Convention. Emery is from the Hopi tribe and Lillie, his wife, is Navajo. He is also retired from serving Six County Association of Governments (SCAOG) and as a consultant for SAE Engineering in Richfield.
Perry Causey preached the charge to Emery and Lillie, family living locally and online, guests, and to those watching online live from Italy, Arizona, and Idaho. Twenty-two were in person and another twenty-five online for the service. Long time church member Paula was so touched seeing so many in attendance for the service. Afterwards the church provided a fellowship meal as they celebrated this day with Emery and his family.
