Southmont Organist Recognized By Guinness World Records

Southmont, N.C., — Martha Curtis Hedrick Godwin, organist and pianist at Macedonia UMC in Southmont, NC, has been recognized by Guinness World Records for playing the longest consecutive time at one church.

Mrs. Godwin began playing at Macedonia UMC when she was thirteen years old, and she has played for more than 73 consecutive years.  She still remembers her first Sunday saying, “I was scared to death.  I played Wonderful Words of Life and it has a first and second ending.  I played both and began to play through again because it didn’t sound right.  We stopped and then started over.  It was the most I have ever been embarrassed.”

During those 73 years Mrs. Godwin played weekly worship services as well as special services, weddings, and funerals.  According to her, “I just grew old doing what I like to do.  The Lord has been good to me and it’s one way I can praise Him.”

The official certificate from Guinness World Records reads, …»The longest career as a church pianist/organist is 73 years and was achieved by Martha Godwin (b. 17 Jan 1927, USA), who has served the Macedonia United Methodist Church in Southmont, North Carolina, USA since April 1940, aged 13 years.”

A celebratory worship service, with the twin themes of service and music, is planned for May 18, 2014 at Macedonia UMC at 10:30 a.m.