"How long have you been at Chapel Hill?"
BARBARA: A long time...since 1977!
"What initially brought you to this church?"
BARBARA: It was close by where I lived. I visited several local churches when I first moved here from Shawnee before I settled at Chapel Hill. Jim Rogers was the senior pastor at the time, and I enjoyed his sermons. I'm what you call a "cradle methodist"!
"Do you have a favorite Bible verse?"
BARBARA: I love all of the Pslams. The one that first comes to mind is Psalms 28:7, which is:
"The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
and with my song I praise him."
"Is there a day that you would consider to be the best day of your life?"
BARBARA: There are many days I've loved. My wedding day, and the birth of each of my children. Last June, on the 21st, we celebrated my 90th birthday with a big outdoor party. We had a picnic in my backyard with my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren – I was surrounded by family!
"What has been your life's work?"
BARBARA: I was in banking when I was young – on the accounting and bookkeeping side. I do my own taxes, and I have done them for others as well. I was a Braillist at a library for the blind. Most importantly, I'm a servant of the Lord. I spent many years teaching Sunday school and leading bible studies.
"Do you have any advice for the younger generation?"
BARBARA: Keep an attitude of gratitude...for your parents...for everything really! Remembering all that we have and are blessed with lifts our spirits and gives us a positive outlook on people and life.
"What do you think has been your biggest contribution to Chapel Hill?"
BARBARA: I've been part of a prayer chain for 17 years. I also introduced Dr. Rogers to The Bethel Bible Series which he taught layman to teach – out of that, several bible studies developed, which contributed to Chapel Hill's bible literacy and spiritual life.
Thank you God, for the wisdom, generosity, and strength of spirit that Barbara carries with her wherever she goes. We are truly humbled by her steadfast presence at Chapel Hill, dedication to her livelihood, and love for her family and faith!
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