Charity&ChildrenAnd now abides faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina

130/3

Share the hope of Easter with a child. (Page 5) See Food Roundup needs and pick up schedule. (Page 8)

4/17

Everyone agrees, it is important tokeep brothers and sisters together

when they are unable to live withone or both parents. However, itcan be a challenge to find a family,even a foster family, that is pre-pared to care for three, four orfive additional children. BaptistChildren’s Homes (BCH) is notonly able but, with open arms,welcomes sibling groups.

“Our main facilities are likeneighborhoods,” says KeithHenry. “Our family-style homesline the streets, and children play in the yards and ride bikes.Our highly-trained cottage parents provide care for as many as ten children in each home. Thesetting and the staff are prepared

for sibling groups.”Henry is BCH’s chief operating officer

and leads in implementing a “child first”intake policy.

Today, 26 sibling groups live on BCH’sthree main campuses – Mills Home inThomasville, Kennedy Home in Kinston,and Broyhill Home in Clyde.

Henry says that BCH is committed to putting the child first. “If a child needsus and we can serve those needs, we takethem into care, no matter if it is one childor a sibling group of five.”

This approach is at the center of BCH’sworking with private referrals and the various partnerships with Departments of Social Services (DSS) throughoutNorth Carolina.

“We can get a call from a DSS worker at one in the morning with a child or a sibling group and we will admit them –right then,” says Henry. “We take thechild; our paperwork can follow.”

This approach has helped strengthenties with DSS officials.

“We need resources that are responsive,”says Rorie Staton, Children’s Services Supervisor with the Guilford County Department of Social Services. “We knowstaff at BCH care about children; they arenot just housing them. They provide nur-turing and enrichment that would rivalsome care children receive in fosterhomes.”

Staton says they always seek to placechildren in family foster homes first, butthere are times “when things don’t workthat way.”

“We work to keep sibling groups together,” says Staton. “But it’s rare to place a large group in a single home.This is when BCH comes to mind.”

Since 2014, BCH has worked to be theprovider of choice (Continued on page 3.)

Keeping siblingstogether takescommitment_______________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

Brothers Christian, left, and Sterling along with older brotherCaleb, not shown, were glad they could be together at MillsHome while their father worked through some big problems.

Charity & Children is the front door to BCH and its varied ministries.

– Michael C. Blackwell

Charity & Children – Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, Inc., 204 Idol St., PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338. Michael C. Blackwell, publisher; Jim Edminson, editor (wjedminson@bchfamily.org); J. Blake Ragsdale, managing editor (jbragsdale@ bchfamily.org); Marcia Housand, account clerk. Charity & Children (ISSN 0009-1723-09 USPS 100-460) is published 11 times a year for friends and supporters of Baptist Children’s Homes. It is printed at Triangle Web Printing, Durham, NC and mailed by Excalibur,Winston-Salem, NC. Circulation: 62,000 seven times a year, 30,000 four times a year. Periodicals postage paid at Thomasville, NC, and at additional mailing offices. For free subscription or to be removed from the mailing list or make address correction orchange, use the above address and write to Attn: Circulation Manager, send an email to address@bchfamily.org or call at 336-474-1209. Subscribe online at bchfamily.org/charityandchildren. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Charity & Children, PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338.

Vision: sharing hope . . . changing lives

Mission: To provide the highest quality

of Christian services to children, adults

and families in a caring culture of

measurable excellence

Read Baptist Children’s Homes’ stories at bchblog.org.2 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

[ M Y T H O U G H T S }

Baptist Special Ministries __________________________________

Tucker Greater Vision Outreach MinistryDevelopmental Disabilities Ministry

Weekday Education

Baptist Aging Ministry__________________________________

Frail Aging AssistanceAging Adult Enrichment

Aging Adult Ministry Support

Baptist Children’s Homes __________________________________

Residential CommunitiesGirls & Boys Wilderness Camps

Family Care CottagesFoster Care

Guatemalan Orphan Care

“My dream machine hasn’t run out of bubbles just because I’m approaching 75.”

– Michael C. Blackwell

Engaging in a staring contestwith small children...getting the

lowdown on favorite pop musiciansfrom teen girls...asking staff membersbig life questions like “how do youwant to be remembered?” – BCHpresident Michael C. Blackwell madeMondays in February memorable asthe children and staff members onthe Mills Home campus spent timewith the Prez.

On Monday, February 6, the smellof freshly popped popcorn caughtthe boys’ attention as they enteredthe meeting place after school. Black-well moved around the room greet-ing each child and speaking with the boys’ cottage parents. Laughterfilled the air as BCH’s president for the past34 yearstaught theboys thenuances of pigLatin.

ThefollowingMonday,

February 13, the girls of MillsHome gathered with the Prez.Blackwell broke the ice with smalltalk as he greeted the residentsand their cottage parents. Thenhe asked the girls to share theircareer plans.

“I want to be a nurse,” one girl said. Another wanted to go into the military.And then one girl asked,“What education would I need to become presi-dent of BCH?” The Prezchuckled with approval and shared his path to thepresidency. The girl nod-ded and said she wouldthink about it.

All agreed the meetings were a success and needed to be repeated.

Subscribe family and friends to C&C at bchfamily.org/subscribe. 34/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

BCH keeps “child first” while serving growing number of siblings_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Continued from page 1.) for sibling group placements, helping brothers and sisters remaintogether once they are removed from the home.In the past three years, BCH increased total sibling groups served by 22.5% and, today, 43%of the population served in residential cottagesare sibling groups.

According to Staton, the difference is in therelationships. “We work in some very heart-wrenching, emergency situations. The opioid epidemic is impacting the number of children weserve. More groups of siblings with very youngchildren are coming into custody. Being able tocall and have a child placed quickly is invaluable.BCH’s focus is on helping.”

Henry affirms that BCH staff members are

responding to calls from families and DSS fasterthan ever. For all involved, timing is crucial for the well-being of the children. “We want to get the children, make sure they have cleanclothes, feed them, and reduce the trauma theyare facing.”

He says working closely with DSS workersis the key in sibling group placements. BCH staff regularly visit DSS offices to meet the workers and to share their appreciation for thework they do. “Our staff know the DSS workersin the counties surrounding our facilities. We invite them on our campuses and into our cottages. We have even had DSS workers make private referrals.”

Henry notes that caring for sibling groups

is about keeping the child first. He says it is the right thing to do. “We realized that we can’t put a price on caring for a child. We havecommitted in faith to always keep the child first and let God take care of everything else. And He has.

BCH president/CEO Michael C. Blackwellsays the focus from day one, on November 11,1885, has been the child. “Caring for siblinggroups has always been a part of who we are, andwe welcome siblings today,” he says. “Althoughneeds are more complex than ever and the challenges children and families face are great, we will not be deterred as we work tirelessly to serve those in crisis. It is our mandate fromNorth Carolina Baptists. It is what God desires.”

[ MEETINGS WITH CHILDREN & STAFF }

Each of February’s four Mondayswere highlighted at Mills Home

with meetings with BCH presidentMichael C. Blackwell. “Mondays

with the Prez!” was a unique opportunity for Blackwell to spendinformal time with children, Family

Care moms, and staff members.

There was hopelessness and despair. And thenthere was Easter.

For many children in North Carolina, life’sjourney can be difficult. This was truly the casefor Jasmine, Jesse, Erin, and three siblings –precious little ones.

Jasmine lived in a house where no one hadtime for her. She lived in a house where manynights she went to bed hungry. No one was thereto read her a bedtime story, say prayers with her,or tuck her in and give her a goodnight hug. Sheknew the meaning of despair and hopelessnessbecause she experienced it every day.

Jesse moved from house to house staying withdifferent relatives. He never had a place to callhome. He never had a place where he felt safe or, most importantly, where he felt loved. It wasvery difficult for Jesse to trust that others couldor would care for him. In fact, the pain of rejec-tion was so painful that he would reject othersbefore they had the chance to do the same tohim. He built a wall around his heart that wasnearly impenetrable.

Erin’s mom died from drug abuse. The traumaof her mother’s death put Erin on a path ofhopelessness and despair. It was a journey shestruggled to get through each day.

A family of three siblings recently came intoour care. I will not use their names for their pro-tection. The oldest is a ten-year-old girl who feltas if she carried the weight of the world on hershoulders. It is heartbreaking to see the despairand hopelessness in her eyes. Her sister is fourand her brother is two. They came to BaptistChildren’s Homes because of the effects of the opioid epidemic in North Carolina. In thiscase, the father’s drug abuse plus the mother’sdrug abuse resulted in the neglect and abuse of their children.

In an article recently published in the BiblicalRecorder, the increase of opioid abuse in NorthCarolina is described as frightening. “Wilming-ton is now America’s worst city for opioid abuse.Hickory comes in at number five; Jacksonvilleranks 12th and Fayetteville is 18th. One out ofevery three opioid prescriptions in North Car-olina is being abused. In 2015, 738 North Car-olinians died from prescription opioid abuse.”

These are not just statistics or numbers on apage. They represent the sorrow of parents left to grieve. They represent children being neg-lected and abused. They represent hopelessnessand despair.

The scenario for the children I mention is all too typical. There are thousands of children in North Carolina who know all too well the

meaning ofhopelessnessand despair.

There aremany wonder-ful stories –from hopelessto hopeful –found in the Bible. Of course, as Easter approaches,the one thatcomes tomind is thejourney ofMary, mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene as they journeyed to the tomb of Christ.

“And very early on the first day of the weekthey went to the tomb when the sun had risen.And they were saying to one another, Who willroll away the stone for us from the door of thetomb?” – Mark 16:2-3

They were burdened by grief and sorrow over the death of Jesus. They knew the feelingsof hopelessness and despair. As they approachedthe tomb, what they discovered was that thegrace, hope and power of our Lord could not bebound by any tomb or by any stone! The tombwas empty.

Hopelessness and despair. . .and then there was Easter!

Opiate abuse, domestic violence, poverty, and physical abuse. Every day, the headlines seemto shout to us about the suffering of children andfamilies. The difficult circumstances they faceeach day is overwhelming. They find themselvesasking the same question Mary and Mary Magdalene asked, “Who will roll away the stone of grief and despair?”

For Jasmine, Jesse, Erin, and the three littleones, the journey led them to a place where they would find loving, caring cottage parentswho work tirelessly to shower them with love,encouragement and hope by the bucketful. Theprofessional and profoundly loving Christian environment provided by your generosity hasworked miracles.

You have shown our children that no hurt is too big for the healing grace of Jesus; no problem too great for the wisdom of God; andnothing that has happened in their lives can prevent the love of Jesus from reaching them.This Easter, they do not make the journey alone.Through your support, you are there to helpthem make life’s journey.

Last year at BCH, we had the joy of witnessing147 precious souls make their journey to Jesus.

Thank you for all you have done and are doingto help each one on the journey! This issue ofCharity & Children is filled with opportunitiesto make a difference. Pick one, or more, andmake a difference in the life of a child. For moreinformation, call me at 336-689-4442.

Hopelessness and despair. . .and then there was Easter!

[ WORTHWHILE INVESTMENTS }

Hopelessness and despair. . .and then there was Easter!_____________________________________________________________________________________________

By Brenda B. Gray, Executive Vice President, Development & Communications

4 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

Brenda Gray’s passion is children. She serves BCH as the executive vice president, development & communications. Gray directs all fund-raising/friend-raising activities for the state-wide services.

Leave a legacy through planned giving. Visit bchlegacy.org.

Events CalendarFood Roundupwww.bchfoodroundup.org – AprilFancy Finds Resale ShopOpen 1st & 3rd Fridays and Saturdays

Ride to Clyde Motorcycle Ride:East to West Charity Ride – May 10–13

Broyhill BBQ Festival:Broyhill Home in Clyde – May 13Friends of Children Workday:Kennedy Home in Kinston – May 6Oak Ranch in Broadway – May 6Odum Home in Pembroke – May 6Camp Duncan in Aberdeen – May 13

Hope in Style Fashion Show:Greensboro Country Club – Aug. 26

Go to bchfamily.org/easter or mail your gift.

Help a child immediately. Give at bchfamily.org/givenow. 54/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

To make a gift by check, please print your information below and mail this form with your check.

Name _____________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________ State ______ Zip __________ Phone ________________________________________ Email ________________________________________

To make a gift by credit card: 1) Go online at www.bchfamily.org/givenow 2) Or make your gift by calling Faith Frazier at 336-474-1312

Yes, I would like to receive email updates from Baptist Children's Homes.

Contact me with information on how to prepare a Christian Will. I have included Baptist Children’s Homes in my estate plans.

Use my gift to share the hope of Easter with a child. $100 $300 $500 $1,000 $ _________________ Any size gift!

Please pray for the children and families Baptist Children’s Homesserves through 22 locations andorphanage inGuatemala.

[ E A S T E R A P P E A L }

children and adults accepted Christ!Last year, 147 souls were won because of

your prayers and generous support! We celebrate together when a child

gives her heart to Jesus. Children who have experienced so much heartache in their young

lives find comfort and healing. Children who wereafraid to trust anyone come to trust a Heavenly Father.

When you give, your support helps provide a safe home, daily provisions and the loving care

of Christian cottage parents.

Most importantly:you make it possible for the boys, girls and adults we minister to daily to learn about Jesus!

Please share the hope of Easter with our children!

Make your special gift today.

Moeisha is driving to meet friends. She putsher seatbelt on and turns the ignition

key. The motor starts. Driving down the street,she looks in her rearview mirror.

“It takes resilience to keep going forward,” shesays. “It’s like looking at your past in a rearviewmirror: You can always see it, but the fartheraway, the smaller and less significant it becomes.”

The 20-year-old Western Carolina University(WCU) junior says she has put as much distanceas she can between her and her “heart’s hurt.”

“You feel a longing and want to be homesometimes, and then you have to be smart. It can be emotionally too much,” she confides.

The former Mills Home resident says that iswhy HOMEBASE is so important.

Moeisha’s mom was a teenager. She lived withher father until she was four, and then her then69-year-old grandfather and her step-grand-mother took custody.

Despite being her father’s “baby” and hergrandfather’s “world,” feelings of abandonmentkept creeping into her mind.

“I remember thinking, ‘My parents don’t wantme’,” she confides. After being sexually abusedby a family acquaintance, she recalls, “I felt thefault for how things were – it didn’t fall on any-one else – everything was my fault. I felt I wasthe problem. . .I still have those feelings today.”

To cope, Moeisha turned her focus to school.It was her escape. In high school, she became in-volved in sports, played in the band, and partici-pated in academic rallies. Each activity was a wayto be away from home and the growing conflictbetween her and her grandmother.

“My grandparents are a very caring couple.They have always gone above and beyond forme,” she says. “But my grandmother and Ibutted heads all of the time. Things got worsethe older I got. The more I wanted to try newthings and venture out, the more we fought. She wanted to be like my mom or a best friend or confidante. But she couldn’t be; she was mygrandmother.”

The final blow-up got out of hand. Other people became involved, and she ended up infoster care. She thought everything there wasgoing to be temporary and she would go backhome. Instead, she went to live at Mills Home inThomasville.

When she first came to Mills Home in Febru-ary 2014, Moeisha was upset. She says she didn’tspeak to anyone for a month. “I felt abandoned

again. I felt my family’s life would go on withoutme, and I could be replaced.”

Her school work suffered. She did not involveherself in her new school. After making some bigmistakes and growing tired of fighting, she says,“It felt like I was drowning, and I was goingunder the last time.”

She felt hopeless until she turned to the adults around her – her cottage parents and casemanager – and they helped her.

Her senior year in high school became a different story. “I helped out in my cottage. I joined marching band and made the soccerteam. I was busy again. It made me happy.”

But this time, instead of escaping, she wasthriving.

Knowing she wanted to become a neonatalnurse, she mapped out a plan to reach her goaland committed to attend Western Carolina University in Cullowhee.

Today, Moeisha stays in contact with former

cottage parents and is always welcome at MillsHome and Broyhill Home in Clyde, but thereare things that come up during middle-of-thenight “student hours” when she won’t pick upthe phone and call – “These are things and timesin my life that fit well with HOMEBASE.”

HOMEBASE offers compassionate support to college students who are former residentialcare and foster youth, orphans, emancipatedyouth, or homeless. The outreach is a collabora-tion between BCH and WCU and operates onthe university’s campus.

“At HOMEBASE, the students are like me,”Moeisha says. “We have similar past experiences.It gives us students a sense of home with nojudgments.”

She says despite the heartache students like herhave known, it’s important to find ways to moveforward, to keep going. “People who come toHOMEBASE are looking ahead. We can’t allowour pasts to hold us back.”

6 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

[ HOMEBASE FEATURE }

Moeisha makesconnection at HOMEBASE___________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

Western Carolina University junior and former Mills Home resident Moeisha is working toward becoming a neonatalnurse. She finds the extra support she needs to be successful at HOMEBASE. Students with similar backgrounds connect

and access resources through the on-campus ministry.

Keep up with BCH on Facebook – facebook.com/bchfamily.

Jerry and Jeune Coffey’s love for motorcyclesis only eclipsed by their love for ministry.

As members of the Carolina Faith Riders, thehusband and wife from Forest City have marriedtheir passions so they can share the Gospel wher-ever their bikes carry them.

“It’s taken us places where we never thoughtwe would be able to share God. We’ve spoken tothe Hells Angels and the Outlaws,” Jeune saysreferring to the two infamous biker clubs.

Their ministry has brought the Coffeys in contact with some of the roughest personalities.It has also brought them alongside boys and girlswho have lived through the roughest of times.

The Coffeys participated in last year’s inaugu-ral “Ride for Clyde,” a charitable ride benefitingBaptist Children’s Homes (BCH). BCH servesmany children who have experienced traumafrom neglect, abuse and family dysfunction.

The couple are gearing up for this year’s sec-ond “Ride for Clyde” which takes place May 10to May 13.

“Once both of us committed to last year’sride, God gave us such a passion for it that I can’texplain it,” Jerry recalls.

Organized by the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina, “Ride for Clyde” brings together motorcyclists for a three-day, 460-mileride that stretches from the east coast to themountains of Clyde, NC. Along the way, partici-pants visit three of BCH’s locations where theymeet the boys and girls they are raising funds to help.

“I never realized how the children would affect me personally, especially the ones at

Cameron Boys Camp,” Jerry says about BCH’sresidential wilderness program in Moore County.“I had no idea the Baptists had that.”

“We fell in love with the children,” Jeune says.“Our church (Chase Baptist in Forest City) reallygot behind us. They dive in with anything thathas to do with children.”

Like all of the participants,the Coffeys were challengedto raise at least $100 each inaddition to their registrationfee. They set an initial goal of$500, but according to Jerry,they were “floored” whentheir final tally reached$3,750. The ride raisednearly $20,000 in its firstyear.

“That’s all God. We justdelivered the money he pro-vided,” Jeune explains.

The Coffeys were the topfundraisers last year, but as Jeune humbly says,“We hope we get beat this year.”

Being a part of “Ride to Clyde,” or any motor-cycle event, would have been impossible for thecouple a few years ago. In fact, their riding daysappeared to be over.

In 2014, Jeune wrecked as she avoided a truck

that was attempting to pass another vehicle. The damage to both her bike and her body wereextensive. A year later, Jerry totaled his motorcy-cle when he skidded on hydraulic fluid leakingfrom a tractor in the road ahead of him.

“We didn’t know if we’d ever ride again,”Jerry reveals. “We left it in God’shands.”

Once the couple healed from their physical and emotionalwounds, Jerry began shopping formotorcycles. Looking online, hefound a pair of bikes for sale inWisconsin.

“I prayed, ‘God, if it’s your willfor us to get these two bikes andcontinue in motorcycle ministry,please work this out for us,’” he divulges. The funds to purchasethe bikes came through the verynext day.

“It’s given riding a whole newmeaning,” Jeune says.

As “Ride to Clyde” approaches in May, Jerryand Jeune are sharing their excitement with otherbikers and encouraging them to go.

“I tell them they will be blessed beyond meas-ure as we get to share God with the children,”Jerry says. “It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Join Ride to Clyde at bchnc.org/ridetoclyde. 74/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

[ 2017 RIDE TO CLYDE }

Couple marries passions for motorcycles and ministry_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By J. Blake Ragsdale, Managing Editor

Jeune and Jerry Coffey of Forest City stop under the archway at Baptist Children’s Homes’ (BCH) MillsHome in Thomasville during “Ride to Clyde 2016.” The couple, who were a part of last year’s inaugural

charity event, are preparing for this year’s ride taking place May 10-13. Below, a photo of Jerry and Jeunefrom her Facebook page. Visit bchnc.org/ridetoclyde to join the ride or sponsor a cyclist. Click on

bchnc.org/comeride or scan the QR code to watch the 45-second video from last year.

8 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3 Download Food Roundup resources at bchfoodroundup.org

MOST NEEDED ITEMS:__ Canned Fruits__ Paper Products (paper towels, toilet paper, Kleenex, napkins)__ Household cleaning products (i.e. bleach, Comet, Lysol spray and wipes, Clorox spray and wipes, Windex, Pinesol, Pledge, Tilex, etc.)__ Fruit Juice (Apple, Orange, Grape, Cranberry)__ Laundry Detergent__ Bottled Water__ Dry Cereal__ Spaghetti Sauce__ Pasta (Spaghetti, Lasagna, Macaroni)__ Canned Tomatoes (diced, sauce, paste)__ Pancake Mix and Syrup__ Soups (All types & condensed)__ Sugar (Granulated & Brown)__ Flour__ Splenda and Stevia

__ Popcorn, Kettle Corn__ Apple Sauce__ Fruit Pie Filling (Cherry and Peach)__ Beverage Mixes (Tea, Tang, Kool-Aid, Lemonade, Cider Mix - All Sugar Free)__ Vegetable Oil, Shortening, Olive Oil, Pam Cooking Spray, Bakers Choice__ Canned Sweet Potatoes, Canned Yams, Canned pumpkin__ Canned Meats (pink salmon, tuna, roast beef, chicken - packed in water)__ Stuffing Mix__ Gravy Mixes__ Hamburger, Chicken, and Tuna Helper (all types)__ Pickles (Sweet & Dill)__ Refried Beans__ Hot Chocolate Mix__ Snack Foods with & without sugar (Fruit Rollups, Fruit Cups, Beef Jerky, Slim Jims, Pepperoni Sticks, Cheese Nips, Pretzels, etc.)

__ Health Snacks (Dried Fruit, Nuts, Raisins, Cranraisins, Trail Mix)

__ Individual Cookie Packs__ Jello__ PopTarts__ Rice__ Instant Potatoes (scalloped, au gratin, mashed, julienne)__ Muffin Mixes__ Bisquick Mix__ Kidney Beans__ Baked Beans__ Pickle Relish__ Cranberry Sauce__ Mac & Cheese__ Corn Meal__ Jiffy Mixes, Corn Muffin Mix__ Potatoes__ Hush Puppy Mix__ Peanut Butter__ Jelly, Jams, Preserves (Strawberry is their favorite)__ Pizza & Pizza Dough Mix__ Saltine Crackers, Ritz, Nabs

Crackers, Graham Crackers__ Sauces (A-1, Steak, BBQ, Texas Pete, Cheese, Worcestershire, Soy, Teriyaki, Sweet & Sour)__ Spices and Seasonings (including Salt & Pepper)__ Dishwashing detergents

__ Laundry pre-treating products (i.e. Shout, Spray and Wash)__ HE Laundry Detergent__ Brooms, Mops, Scrub

Brushes, Dust Pans__ Foil and Plastic Wrap__ SOS Pads__ Fabric Softener __ Dryer Sheets__ Sanitary Pads & Tampons__ Hand Lotion__ Shampoo__ Body Wash__ Soap__ Hand Sanitizer

OTHER NEEDED ITEMS:__ Brownie & Cookie Mix__ Canned Vegetables__ Individual Chef Boyardee cups__ Clif brand nutrition bars__ Hot Dog Chili__ Coffee (Regular & Decaf)__ Coffee Creamer__ Sweetened Condensed Milk__ Evaporated Milk__ Dehydrated Food (powdered milk & eggs, dehydrated meals)

__ Flavorings (Vanilla, etc.)__ Honey__ French Fried Onions

__ Ketchup__ Mustard__ Oatmeal__ Salsa__ Vinegar__ Parmesan Cheese__ Puddings, Pudding Cups__ Paper Products (Cups, Plates, Bowls, Plastic Ware, Dixie Cups)

__ Copy/Printer Paper __ Trash Bags (large & small)__ Zip-Loc bags (Sandwich,

Snack, Quart & Gallon Sizes)__ Band Aids__ Rubbing Alcohol/Peroxide__ Anti-bacterial ointment__ Razors__ Shaving Cream/Gel__ Dental Floss__ Hair brushes__ Deodorant__ Conditioner__ Tooth Paste__ Tooth Brushes__ Diapers (all sizes)__ Baby Wipes__ Bug Repellent__ Wasp/Hornet Spray

__ Sunblock 30+__ Batteries (AA , AAA and D)__ Disposable Gloves

(Non-Latex ONLY)

Gift Cards are appreciatedto buy perishables anditems not received. (Wal-mart, Sams Clubs, Food Lion,Lowes, Ingles, Piggly Wiggly,etc.)

We can use all size cans.Some locations prefer #10family-size cans.

Please check for expireddates on food. Help our vol-unteer truck drivers by pack-ing your donations in small,sturdy boxes.

Questions? Help? ContactAlan Williams at 1-800-476-3669 ext. 1277 or email himat awilliams@bchfamily.org.

[ FOOD ROUNDUP }

Needs list______________________________________

Your church can help us carefor more boys and girls! Like

last year, Baptist Children’s Homes willopen another cottage in 2017 to provide ahome for more hurting children. Help collecta minimum of $350,000 in nonperishable food,gift cards and other items. This is approximately700,000 meals and snacks – enough for a year!

VIDEO: HouseparentsSee Hunger FirsthandAdam & Sian Saunders share theneeds they see daily. Download atwww.bchnc.org/food17

April 2017

Statewide collection ready to receive food donations_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Alexander AssociationLari Stucky828-632-6546Anson AssociationKim Glenn704-694-2790Ashe AssociationTrish Church336-846-5631Atlantic AssociationRachel Dupree252-447-4593Avery AssociationGarland Huneycut828-733-6674Beulah AssociationTeresa Wilkins919-730-0226Bladen AssociationConnie Holland910-862-3496

Blue Ridge AssociationSharon Blanton 828-559-0685Brier Creek AssociationSherry Mesimer336-468-8000Brunswick AssociationApril Smith910-754-7979Brushy Mountain Assoc.Gloria Kilby/Linda Holland336-838-4407Buncombe AssociationNancy Owen828-252-1864Burnt Swamp Assoc.Odum Home - Kathy Locklear910-521-3433/910-318-3981Cabarrus AssociationMarvin Tyson704-786-9171Caldwell AssociationAssociation GarageDarlene Townsend828-758-4081Carolina AssociationPaula James828-693-4274Catawba River Assoc.Marlene Houk828-437-0137Catawba Valley Assoc.Woodlawn BCRev. Jerry Anderson828-464-6921

Cheoah AssociationNew Hope BC, RobbinsvilleGerald & Nellie Phillips828-479-8279Chowan AssociationNancy Porter / Annie Leslie252-426-9621Columbus AssociationTheresa Powell910-642-2155Dan Valley AssociationRev. Walter Daves 336-342-2207Dock Association910-640-0801Eastern Association1. Sandra Winstead910-293-70772. Grove Park BCCameron Dunn910-574-9829Elkin AssociationChurches independentlycollecting & delivering toMills HomeFlat River AssociationBecky Curran919-693-2300/910-690-5120French Broad AssociationDru Moore828-689-2845Graham AssociationNew Hope BC, RobbinsvilleGerald & Nellie Philips828-479-8279

Greater Cleveland Assoc.Charles Reed704-482-3472Greater Gaston Assoc.Association WarehouseBetty Hamilton704-867-7257Green River AssociationTeresa Sams828-286-9278Haywood AssociationBroyhill Home - Linda Morgan828-627-9254Johnston AssociationJohnston Comm. CollegeCarolyn Tharrington 919-934-3749Liberty AssociationMills Home - Alan Williams336-474-1277Little River Association1. Baptist Grove BC919-552-85922. Gourd Springs BC910-436-02763. Lillington BC910-893-91514. Westfield BC910-892-2216Macon AssociationCyndi Bohner828-524-3215Metrolina AssociationBeth Rose704-375-1197

Mitchell AssociationJudy Greer828-765-9412Montgomery AssociationWendy Jarman910-572-2451Mount Zion AssociationSandy King 336-226-0249Neuse AssociationKennedy Home –Al Little/Brian Baltzell252-527-4417New River AssociationChristine Nemoto910-347-3146New South River Assoc.Robert Ivey/ReginaHammonds910-485-8791North Roanoke Assoc.Debbie Williams252-443-3883Pee Dee AssociationLanell Moree/Janie Frye910-895-5282Piedmont AssociationRebecca Newlin336-275-7651Pilot Mountain Assoc.PMBA at Northwest BaptistKaren Taylor336-830-8189Polk AssociationShannon Brower828-894-3787

Raleigh AssociationIris Woodard919-231-3995Randolph AssociationDrema Hill/Steve Sells336-625-4175Robeson Association1. Alan Taylor910-738-81862. Odum Home -Kathy Locklear910-521-3433/910-318-3981Rocky Face AssociationTony Daniels 828-850-2267/828-632-4726Rowan AssociationCindy Key704-637-3407Sandhills AssociationTom Lamkin910-947-2238Sandy Creek AssociationNancy Evans919-776-9423Sandy Run AssociationKaren Hutchins828-245-2613

South Fork AssociationFaith Ingle704-735-1642South Mountain Assoc.Don Willis704-462-4472

South Roanoke Assoc.1. Linda Franks252-756-43322. FBC Wilson, Max Liles252-243-7961South Yadkin AssociationFairview BC - Paul Hill704-872-4246Stanly AssociationJudy Hartsell/Libby Hartsell704-982-4891/704-982-1033Stone MountainJulius Blevins336-696-4210Stony Fork AssociationRoy Gryder828-295-3410Surry AssociationSusan Haynes336-789-5701Tar River AssociationPauline Muller919-496-7172Tennessee River Assoc.FBC, Bryson City Judy Hensley828-488-2679Three Forks AssociationHarold Bennett828-264-4482Transylvania AssociationJan Miller828-877-3203/828-808-7917

Truett AssociationKaren Twiss828-837-5401Tuckaseigee AssociationGracella Morris828-586-6011Union AssociationJean Rollins704-283-8383United Association(Drop at Metrolina Assoc.)Beth Rose/ 704-375-1197West Chowan Assoc.Britton Ministries – Joann Mizelle252-332-3235Wilmington Association1. Andrea Knight910-799-11602. Scotts Hill BC- Alena Sandlin910-686-9885Yadkin AssociationBrenda Garner/Dennis Shaw336-679-8731Yancey AssociationCathy Silvers828-682-2388Yates AssociationTeresa Dotson/Michael Bond919-489-3396

PLEASECALL FIRST.

Delivery hours vary ateach location. Please

call the location inadvance to schedule

your delivery.

THANK YOU!

The opening paragraph of JohnChandler’s (‘41) very recently

completed account of growing up atMills Home begins:

“‘Sounds like Deerfield.’ That wasJack Sawyer’s surprising response to my brief description of what it was liketo grow up in Mills Home, a Baptistorphanage in Thomasville, NorthCarolina where I lived for seven and a half years. John E. Sawyer was president of Williams College at thetime, and I was dean of the faculty. In 1934, sixteen-year-old Jack Sawyerand the other Deerfield Academy boyswere belting out ‘There is Power in the Blood’ and other evangelical hymns in the Deerfield Chapel. As a ten-year-old, I was among the 550boys and girls who gathered frequentlyin the Mills Home Church and the hymns that we sang drew upon a similar repertoire. I knew enoughabout New England prep schools torecognize, after a moment’s reflection,what Jack Sawyer meant. Yes, MillsHome and Deerfield Academy werecomparable in some important ways. The orphanage, however, was a peculiar, distinct, and extraordi-nary institution.”

A very interesting read, John’sstory is embellished with photos of key spots at Mills Home and keypeople who influenced his life. Forthose who are interested, you can access John’s story at this address:http://archives.williams.edu/files/chandler_biography.pdf. If you do notuse the computer, you can probablyask a friend to access and print the42-page story for you.

We are happy that Estie Culler wasable to find out how Jan Lipscomband Libby Phillips are getting alongsince their very bad accident somemonths ago. Respectively, these two ladies are married to Gilbert Lipscomb and Larry “Are” Phillips. A note from Gilbert reads: “Estie,Jan came back to Charleston and isin a rehab facility. She will be there at least a few weeks. We will have 4-8weeks of home care when she comeshome. Libby had back surgery inJacksonville and came through it fine. She should be going back to North Carolina today. Don’t

know where she’s going yet. She will probably have several weeks in a rehab facility first. Both of themwill be fine, but it’s going to takesome time. Thanks for asking andkeep us in your prayers. Cheers, Gil Lipscomb.”

Friends can contact Gilbert at1313 Woodpecker Lane, Hanahan,SC, 29410 or eglipscomb@comcast.net. Larry “Are” Phillips can bereached at 161 Winterbell Dr.,Mooresville, NC, 28215, act-seight37@shotmail.com.

Joyce Peek Rogers has reconnectedwith many of her Mills Home friendsthrough her activity on Facebook. In a Facebook note in mid February2017, she wrote that her husbanddied in July, 2016 and, at her son’sinsistence, she moved to Florida to live with him. She finds her new“Florida hometown” to be quite a bit different from her small townhere. Friends can send condolencesand reconnect to Joyce at this address: 700 33rd St., N. Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 or by email, joyce02@gmail.com.

I visited Jeanie Helms Cooper atWestchester Manor Nursing Centerseveral days ago and talked with her soon again thereafter. She was so obviously delighted when shementioned all the cards, calls, flow-ers, gifts, and visits she has received.Jeanie has had a very difficult timeever since her stomach surgery lastApril. One major issue has been thatshe has not been able to digest herfood and consequently her body has been denied adequate nutriment.She is awaiting surgery on March 14which will reverse the procedure performed last year and hopefullytake care of conditions which contributed to the digestion and nutriment absorption problem. Shehas been moved to a new room whileshe awaits surgery. Folks can stay upto date with her progress by visitingFacebook, the Mills Home websiteor contacting her sister Jane HelmsBrown. Family and friends all requestcontinued prayers for Jeanie. Folkshave inquired about helping in some way so I am referring all suchinquiries to Jane who can be con-tacted at ddbjhb86@gmail.com or

call 919-451-2912. Send cards and letters to Jeanie at Jane’s addressand she will deliver them to Jeanie.Jane’s address is 720 Curry Rd.,High Point, NC 27265. You canmake direct contact with Jeanie at: 336-905-1852.

A note from Jane Brown reads:“Please let every one know that I am so thankful to have such a loving, caring family from MillsHome. You are not just my child-hood friends but my brothers and sisters for life and I love youdearly.”

The Alumni Council had a pleasant and productive meeting on February 19 with new presidentBob Mayton presiding. A good dealof time was spent assessing our lastHomecoming with the hopes ofmaking improvements. You can startyour plans by calendaring August 4,5 and 6 for Homecoming.

James Byrd commented in themeeting that he felt my encourage-ment in our column and severalother people mentioning it in Char-ity & Children played a large part in more folks paying membershipdues and/or come to Homecoming.Please continue encouraging othersto keep up membership and continueto return and reconnect with belovedfriends. We’re always grateful for thetremendous help we get from BaptistChildren’s Homes. The AlumniCouncil’s planning is a job done witha great deal of love and commitmentso that we can all have a wonderfultime. If you wish to volunteer tohelp with Homecoming, please contact Bob Mayton. Bob and thecommittee chairpersons will find a suitable job for your talent, timeand energy. Some of you may wish to go ahead and let Bob know if you would be willing to devote sometime to help with the registrationthat goes on most of the weekend or with the Silent Auction. Othersmight be willing to help serve thedelicious food cooked up by Dannyand Jane Helms Brown and their crewon Saturday evening and sometimesFriday evening. Contact Bob at rim-rim1951@gmail.com, 1206 MelchorRd., Albemarle, NC 28001, 704-796-3900.

We are in an “odd numbered”year so we will reprint the MillsHome Address Directory. Please remember that all corrections andadditions for the address book needto be sent to Sally Beck FergusonNO LATER THAN May 31, 2017.The book will go to the printer by June 15. Things most often forgotten are updates on cell phone numbers and email addresses. SallyFerguson’s address is: 25 SouthernPine Trail, Ormond Beach, FL,32174 or fergusonsb@yahoo.com.

Whenever you have an addresschange, you also need to send it tothe Charity & Children office. Youcan send it to Deneesha Edwards,Box 338, Mills Home, Thomasville,NC 27361 or to this email address:address@bchfamily.org.

I was saddened to learn of thedeath of Margaret Price Hahl (June11, 2016). Coming from Cher-ryville, NC, Margaret entered MH in1937 with siblings Fosteena, DessieLouise, Katie Bernice, Ernest William& Ralph Emanuel. She graduated in1945. Most of her adult life, workand family rearing years were spentin Toms River, Summit, and Brick,New Jersey. She was a budget assistant for NASA in Langleyfield,Virginia for seven years, a member of the Lions’ Heart Arts and Crafts and Ceramic Group, Friendsof the Library, volunteer at the Shore Animal Shelter in Brick, and a volunteer at the Board of Electionsof Toms River and Brick, NJ. Shewas predeceased by her husbands J.Roger Conant in 1982 and Howard L.Hahl in 1997, and her son RogerPrice Conant. She is survived by herdaughters Cheryl and Patricia andthree cherished granddaughters. Her funeral service was held on June 25th, 2016.

I am saddened to pass on the news that Lorraine Owen Brewer and Matthew Lambert passed away in March, 2017. Look for more in

the next column.

Lib Johnson was a resident of MillsHome from 1946 to 1957. Johnsonbegan writing the Mills Home alumnicolumn in 1992.

[ MILLS HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

Story about growing up at Mills Home is online –Volunteers needed for August Homecoming_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Lib Smathers Johnson (336) 299-7412 libsjohnson@triad.rr.com

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/millshomealumni 94/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

_______________________________Camp Duncan for Girls

Camp Duncan for Girls’ Pioneer Group spentthree weeks canoeing the Peace River in south-ern Florida and then navigated the waters ofTen Thousand Islands. Ten Thousand Islands are a chain of islands and islets outside of Ever-glades National Park. The girls and their chiefscamped in the park for three days and observeda variety of wildlife. They snacked from citrustrees and tasted alligator at the Gator Grill._______________________________Broyhill Home

The unusually mild winter has still yielded acouple of beautiful snow days especially forchildren living at Broyhill Home in Clyde. Threeof the children were so excited by a recentshow that they rushed outside to see the hugeflakes as they fell._______________________________Friends of ChildrenMembers of the local chapter of the BeardedVillains held a fundraiser on February 21 called“Beards for Beds.” The group raised $786.43 for BCH’s boys and girls. The group, which is a community for bearded men, make it a pointto be a part of charitable causes and are planning to make “Beards for Beds” an annualevent. Pictured are Connor Royals, left, and

Chris Garcia, right, presenting the event checkto BCH’s Development and Communicationsmanager Alan Williams._______________________________Mills Home

Girls living at the recently reopened CraverCottage hiked at Hanging Rock State Park. Thepark is located north of Winston-Salem in theSauratown Mountains. Above, the girls exploreone of several waterfalls that can be accessedwithin the park._______________________________BCH Supporters

Vernelle Holt, left, and daughter Laura Powell,right, present BCH director of communicationsBlake Ragsdale with $1,635 from Albion BaptistChurch in Mt. Airy. The church are longtimeBCH supporters._______________________________Guatemala Orphanage

Like many babies, some of the youngest resi-dents at the Good Shepherd Children’s Home,are bathed in a sink. A number of children whocome into the care of the orphanage in Quet-

zaltenango (Xela), Guatemala are victims ofpoverty, neglect or abandonment. Currently,children in care at Good Shepherd range fromages three months to 14 years old. Pictured isone of the orphanage’s child care workers,known as niñeras, giving a bath to a baby._______________________________McNeill Home

The city of Indian Beach, where McNeill Home is located, recently held a surf fishingcontest to raise funds for BCH’s beach cottage.The event brought in more than $2,100. Forsome time, the city has been looking for an opportunity to support the home which offersBCH’s residents and their staff an opportunityto experience a beach vacation each year. They plan to make this an annual event. Indian Beach police officer Ryan Ipock, left presenting a check to Kennedy Home directorBrian Baltzell, is a former lifeguard at BCH’sKennedy Home pool in Kinston. He met with Kennedy Home staff last summer to coordinate the event._______________________________Odum Home

The “Sisters of Strength”, a women’s groupfrom Antioch Baptist Church in Lumberton, collected supplies to help the boys and girls living at Odum Home in Pembroke. _______________________________Children Helping Children

The youth group from Old Savannah BaptistChurch in Sylva took on the project of collect-ing paper products for Broyhill Home in Clyde.The donation filled up the vehicle of BCH’sLewis Smith when he picked up the supplies.

You can help!bchfamily.org/getinvolved

10 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3 Discover ways to help at bchfamily.org/getinvolved

Every day at churches and BCH facilities “around the state,” staffmembers, residents and North Carolina Baptists are making news. In Charity & Children and throughBCH's social media posts, friendscan connect daily, weekly andmonthly to learn about all of BCH's happenings.

Around the State

The Kennedy Home (KH)Alumni Beach Retreat at

Indian Beach has been changed this year to Labor Day weekend.

Come on, help us fill up thebeach cottage and let’s have a greattime. Details will follow in a latercolumn, but I just wanted to letyou know the dates so you canmake plans to join us. The dates are September 1, 2, 3, and 4.

This is wonderful! The water willbe warm enough to go swimmingwith the sharks down there –just kidding. Put the date on your calendar and I’ll let you know later about all the details like costand what to bring. Let’s have the largest crowd ever. I think the cottage holds 60 people.

Rebekah Grimsley, the KHalumni recording secretary, wroteto me recently. She is not an alum,but she married one.

“Brother John, I am writing this not from living at KH, butfrom the point of view of one whomarried someone that lived at KH.My story begins when I met mywonderful husband Michael –he was at KH as a teen for threeyears in the 70s. There were family issues; so his momma put himwhere she knew he would get thelove he needed. This would giveher time to handle the issues athome. Mike has three sisters andone brother – plus a stepfather.

“Mike lived in the cottage with Bill and Betty Beacham. The Beachams are both with theLord today. They were the greatestthing that happened for Michael.

“Mike’s mother was a good loving mother that would fight for her kids, but she was gettingoverwhelmed with five children, a military retired husband, andbooze. Mike was the eldest and thetallest at 6’ 4” in bare feet. KH reinforced his mother’s life teach-ings plus helped ground him in a lot of ways. The years he wasthere he worked in the dairy with Mr. Poteat. Mike loved working it.

It gave him a chance to grow emotionally and in his walk withGod. It also allowed him to indulgein his favorite past time – fishing.

“There was a pond on the farmwhere he was able to fish. It wasthe perfect retreat for him at a timewhen he had to absorb the newthings that were being thrown athim at the hardest time normally in a teenager’s life.

“Mrs. Beacham helped him a lot. They were both tall and large.She did not take any gruff from anyof her children. The children whohad the privilege of living in hercottage knew her rules and knewshe would stand by them. Theyweren’t allowed to sit around anddo nothing. They all had jobs inthe house and on the campus. Butalong with the responsibilities, theyhad lots of fun, too.

“Basically, these are the thingsthat my husband told me about hislife at KH. It is so engraved in hisspirit and soul. The Home helpedhim accept who he was (a big tallperson) and that he was loved. Helearned to forgive the wrongs ofothers, to just let it go.

“When I met Mike, he was agentle giant. Big deep voice and a twinkle in his eyes. Never in our18 years of marriage has he liftedhis voice or hand in anger. Do notget me wrong, we have our words,but we always gave ourselves timeto cool off. Then we discussed the issues. Before it’s over, either weagreed to disagree or he wouldmake me laugh. I came to him withsome right heavy baggage in mylife, and he helped me over thelumps and bumps.

“We became great friends. Even to this day, he gives God, his mother (who had passed now),and the KH for giving him his freshstart in life. He is thankful for a family to love, his KH brothersand sisters that he keeps in contactvia Facebook, and of course for me.

“I do not think I could love himmore. He is a well-rounded manwith strong morals, a love of God

and his country, and he is a personof integrity – he is true to himself.

“KH, you helped another childbecome the man he is today. He isstrong in faith and full of love. Heis one of God’s children that trulytries to help those in need. Hewatches and the Lord tells himwhat to do. He listens strongly to God’s voice.

“So, I leave this story as is, because no more needs to be told.Those that know Mike as ‘brotherfrom a different mother’ under-stand what I am saying. He lovesthem as though they are his broth-ers and sisters. For this, I thank you for molding my best friend andhusband into the man he is today.Love, Rebekah”

Michael was there when I servedat KH. I really enjoy his remarks on Facebook every day. He trulyhas a love for KH in his heart. I remember he was very well liked.Rebekah, thank you so much forthis meaningful letter. You can tell it comes from your heart.

Bruce Shell sent me a note about his father. “Mr. Thompson,my father Deaver Shell attendedKH from 1925-1935. His twoyounger sisters, Cornelia and Lor-raine, were there as well. He passedaway many years ago but thoughtof KH as home. I enjoy readingyour column and appreciate yourpassion to make it happen. Justthought I would thank you foryour effort. Take care.”

Thank you, Bruce, for writing.Please take the time to write moreabout your father. I’m sure a lot of people remember him.

Hugh L. Kirkman of Cove Citywrote: “Hi, Bro. John. I miss youand Mrs. Becky. I attend churchnow where my cousin Rev. ObieKirkman, Jr is the preacher. Ourchurch is called Bethany ChristianChurch. I love it a lot. I even singin the choir. I remember the firsttime Earl and I met you on campusat KH. It was a hot August day in1975. I was nine years old and wemet at the office. Mr. Horace

Hawes was there and a girl namedPeggy.

“I lived in the Bigg’s Cottage –I had never seen a house that big.Boy, it was neat! Mrs. Cribb was myhousemother. We later moved toCCB. She loved Earl and me. Sheloved all the CCB boys.

“Before coming to KH, I lived in a foster home in Cherry Point.We were able to play on the base a lot and I loved it.

“I remember going to the Beach Cottage while at KH. I alsoremember playing at the gym. You would take our choir over toLaGrange to sing Christmas carols.

“I love you and Mrs. Becky. I hope to see you at Homecomingthis year the first weekend in June.

“Thanks for taking Earl and mecamping back at the Skeeter Hut.We would shine lights and look for cows and snakes.

“I now work for Drake JanitorialCleaning services. I feed six goats,four dogs, a hog, a turkey, a ginny,two ducks, and two rabbits. Love,Hugh Kirkman”

Thanks, Hugh, for writing. I remember all the good times wehad together. We will never forgetyou. Becky and I loved serving theLord and the children.

I want to encourage everyone to attend Homecoming this yearthe first weekend in June – June 2,3 & 4. The new date worked realwell last year.

Come on, let’s have the largestcrowd KH has ever seen. KH ishome to so many people. I considerus to all be one big family. Pleasecontinue to send me more newsand information for my column. I appreciate you taking the time to make the column possible.

Give us a call or write We loveyou very much. Youwill always be myyoungins. – jt

[ KENNEDY HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

Alumnus spouse shares how Kennedy Homehelped husband “become the man he is today”_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By John Thompson, 2324 Country Club Road, Jacksonville, NC 28546 (252)671-3515 jthompson117@ec.rr.com

John Thompson was the choir director at Kennedy Home from1972-1977. Today, he enjoys a veryactive retirement.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kennedyhomealumni 114/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

Read more at #Homeword or bchfamily.org/charityandchildren.12 4/17 – Charity & Children – 130/3

As a boy, I looked up to my grandfa-ther. I had to – he stood nearly

6’ 5”. He was nimble, too. Tales of his contortions fascinated me. I remember as a six-year-old sitting, tugging and pullingone leg proudly around my neck. Pawpaw,as a young man, could tuck both feet behind each ear, wiggle his toes and act as if the feat was nothing at all.

Pawpaw’s career began as a pole climber for the local electric power and ice company. With his pole spurs attached,he shimmied up the wood poles with ease,earning a reputation of being one of thebest in his line crew.

Later, he managed a bucket truck and supervised a crew. The massive vehiclehoisted him high in the sky. Using levers attached to the inside of the bucket, hecould position himself safely between powerline poles. Even in storms with fierce winds,he and his men tackled the formidable taskof restoring customers’ electricity.

He was a bowler. I have a trophy on a shelf in my office that he received for participating in the Civic and ServiceLeague the year I was born.

I have fond memories of going fishingwith Pawpaw. Sitting together in his green-metal, flat-bottom boat, he trolled amongstthe decaying tree stumps of Lake Iatt. Itseemed he knew exactly where the beds of bream waited as he cast his line beneaththe cypress tree boughs yielding one fishafter another.

Using my small Zebco rod and reel, Iwould attempt to cast my line as effortlesslyas he did. It never yielded the same reward,but he encouraged me to keep trying.

Back at theone-room fishcamp he built along thebank of this man-made lake in cen-tral Louisiana, he fried the day’s catch in a black skillet and served the fish with raw sliced onion and mounds of ketchupflavored with hot sauce.

We settled on cots beneath old blankets at the end of day. I would lay there recallingeverything we did together, feeling contentand being in awe of my grandfather.

My grandfather set a high standard of behavior. He was a leader in his community,and when the need arose, he led his familyto join others in his neighborhood to organize a Baptist church and was one of the congregation’s first deacons.

Being around a person you admire causesyou to aspire to lofty heights.

Jesus called men who were fishers to aspire for more, to use their energies to become fishers of men. Peter and Andrewwere good at what they did. They wereskilled with their nets and could navigatetheir boat as well as any of the other fisher-men. But Jesus inspired them to be more.

Jesus was approached by a woman getting her day’s water from the community’s well.

He told herthere was water she

could drink and never thirst again. He knewthe life she had lived left her wanting andthirsting for more. Jesus assured her thatshe could rise up to new life.

Jesus calls us all to look up on the crossand see the life given, for while we were enemies of God, He died for us. We see Hisact of love and conviction falls on us. Butinstead of being beaten down, He calls us to rise up and be imitators of God, as belovedchildren. In Jesus, we can aspire to heavenlyheights.

Recently, I was asked how I would like tobe remembered. I told the person about myPawpaw and said that I hope my grandchil-dren will be inspired by my example like heinspired me. I hope they will remember thatI believed in them, just like my grandfather

believed in me.Edminson writes “Homeword” to encourage readers with personal anecdotes of home life.He is available for preaching and speaking engagements. Email him at wjedminson@bch-family.org or call 800-476-3669, ext. 1217 toschedule a date.

[ # H O M E W O R D }

1. Western Area Family Services Linda Morgan, Lead Dir. 828-627-9254

2. Central Area Family Services Regina Keener, Dir. 336-474-1200

3.Eastern Area Family Services Brian Baltzell, Dir. 252-522-0811 www.kennedyhome.org

4. Odum Home Kathy Locklear, Resident Mgr.910-521-3433www.odumhome.org

5. Oak Ranch/Family CareLynn Garner, Dir. 336-474-1240

6. Cameron Boys Camp Stephen Ashton, Dir. 910-245-4034 www.cameronboyscamp.org

7. Camp Duncan for Girls Paul Daley, Dir. 910-944-3077 www.campduncanNC.org

8. Weekday EducationLinda Russo, Dir. 336-474-1201

9. Dev. Disabilities Ministry Peggy Pennington, Dir. 336-474-1261www.hereismyhome.org

10.NC Baptist Aging MinistrySandy Gregory, Dir. 336-474-1221www.ncbam.org

11. Tucker Greater Vision MinistryMarjorie Rorie, Dir. 336-747-0018

12.HOMEBASE at WCUJim Dean, Dir. 828-293-4660

13.Good Shepherd Children’sHome, GuatemalaKeith Henry336-474-1215

Ideas or suggestions, contact: Keith HenryChief Operating Officer 336-474-1215

Can we help?_____________________________________To learn more about BCH’s min-istriy, call 800-476-3669 or go online at www.bchfamily.org.

It was a tall order lookingup to my Pawpaw_________________________________________________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor