This past Sunday, a small but spirited congregation of the Metropolitan Worship Center in Orange gathered to celebrate Mother’s Day.

While the church’s membership may be modest in number, the heart of the community is vast.

This year, the spotlight shone brightest on two women who serve as the pillars of the congregation: Gerry Oliver and Luzetta Moore.

Known throughout the community as beloved matriarchs, Oliver and Moore were honored by their children and grandchildren for their roles as the "beating hearts" of both their families and their faith.

For the honorees, the day was a joyful surprise.

Both women expressed they were thrilled to be singled out, though their impact on the church has long been a quiet, constant force.

Bishop Thurman Owens emphasized the significance of the holiday to his flock.

For this congregation, Owens noted, Mother’s Day isn’t just a brunch date on the calendar—it is a sacred occasion, ranking alongside Christmas as one of the holiest days of the year.

As the service concluded, it was clear that while the building in Orange may be small, the love cultivated within its walls is enormous.