FARMINGTON — The Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry has recognized Bill and Irene Berry for their commitment to the ministry and to helping others.

The Farmington couple were presented Thursday with the 2018 Annual Salt & Light Award at the Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry’s annual meeting at Fairbanks Union Church. The ministry comprises nine churches in Franklin County.

The Salt & Light Award is based on Matthew 5:13-16, which reads:  “You are the salt of the earth. … You are the light of the world.”

The Rev. Susan Crane, coordinator of the ministry’s ecumenical heating program,  said the organizations were pleased to give the award to the Berrys, who do much for the community.

Ministry Moderator David Giard and Crane presented the framed award to the couple. Crane also thanked Irene Berry for organizing all the Easter Sunrise Services since 1977 on Voter Hill.

Crane also thanked Bill Berry and the Sandy River Charitable Foundation for their support since 2011 of the Franklin County Ecumenical Heating Fund.

“By extending an annual $5,000 matching grant for heat dances and holiday concerts, (Sandy River Charitable Foundation) has challenged the entire community to give generously to help FAEM keep our neighbors warm,” Crane said.

Every year, the foundation issues the $5,000 challenge grant, and so far the community each year has met or exceeded the goal.

dperry@sunmediagroup.net

The Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry presented Irene and Bill Berry of Farmington on Thursday with the Salt & Light Award for their commitment to helping the community and their partnership in ministry. Shown from left: David Giard, moderator for the ministry; Irene Berry; the Rev. Susan Crane, coordinator of the ministry’s ecumenical heating program; and Bill Berry. (Donna M. Perry/Sun Journal)

Members of the Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry presented Bill and Irene Berry of Farmington with the 2018 Salt & Light Award on Thursday during the ministry’s annual meeting. (Donna M. Perry/Sun Journal)