For more than a decade, Sunday school teacher Lavette Smith attended Lakeview Church of God, but this past weekend marked the first time she received a red carpet welcome. On Sunday, August 14, the 24-year-old was officially presented to her church as the new Miss Gospel Bahamas 2011/2012.

The church's foyer was decorated for her joyous homecoming. A "Congratulations" banner dangled from the ceiling. Underneath it were three of the garments the queen wore the night she was crowned: the 'Esther' outfit which won her...