The Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries was recognized during the Alabama Baptist State Convention (ABSC) for its quick response during a church crisis.
“On July 15 of this year, the life of Macedonia Baptist Church (in Coates Bend) was literally turned into chaos,” said Macedonia Pastor Dave Roberts during the Children’s Homes report to convention messengers.
That day Charles Johnson, 40, and his wife, Lisa, 38, were killed when a van they were riding in wrecked. The couple was serving as chaperons on a youth missions trip to Gulf Shores sponsored by the church. Several teenagers were also injured.
“During that time of crisis (the Children’s Homes) answered the call to ministry (by offering counseling support),” Roberts said, presenting plaques to both Paul Miller, executive director of the Children’s Homes, and Rod Marshall, director of counseling. “They brought health and healing to our church.”
Marshall said, “The opportunity to respond to Macedonia Baptist Church was an humbling experience. We were honored to bring reconciliation and healing to the saints of Macedonia.
“We have professional staff trained to respond to crises at the church and associational level,” Marshall said. “Give us the privilege of responding to you as well.”
The Book of Reports for the ABSC further explained that the Children’s Homes has 27 professional counselors and social workers trained in crisis management.
“The counselors and social workers are available and equipped to assist in the first 12 to 72 hours after a traumatic event,” states the Book of Reports.
Also during the Children’s Homes report time, a former resident, Wanda Hysmith Barron, thanked the ministry for helping her.
Barron’s father was an alcoholic and was abusive. “My mother died as a result of his being abusive,” Barron said. She ended up with houseparents from the Children’s Homes by age 7. Soon after she received Christ, she said.
“There were several things that affected my life,” she said, noting weekly attendance in worship service, GA camp, music week at Shocco Springs Conference Center and the love of the houseparents.
“I learned to read my Bible, pray and serve,” Barron said.
According to the Book of Reports, the Children’s Homes has so far this year celebrated 17 children and youth coming to Christ, provided homes for 178 children and youth, served close to 78 foster children, counseled 688 children, youth and families and assisted 960 people on its pregnancy hotline. (TAB)
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