By Chris Crain
BMBA executive director
There are moments in history that shape a generation. For many of us, Sept. 11, 2001, is one of those moments. We remember where we were when we heard the news. We remember the courage of firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel and countless other first responders who ran toward danger while others were running away. Their sacrificial service has never been forgotten.
Five years later, on Sept. 11, 2006, the Birmingham Baptist Association launched Adopt-A-Station as a way for churches to continue remembering those heroes — not simply with words, but through ministry. Today, we are known as Birmingham Metro Baptist Association, and we continue that tradition of service by encouraging churches to adopt police and fire stations in their own communities and intentionally share the love of Christ with those who faithfully serve us every day.
The focus takes place Sept. 6–12, and it doesn’t have to be elaborate. A visit with homemade cookies or baked goods, a meal, handwritten notes of encouragement, children’s cards or simply taking time to pray with those on duty can make an eternal difference. These public servants often carry tremendous responsibility and stress, frequently witnessing situations that most of us never experience. A simple act of kindness reminds them they are seen, appreciated and prayed for.
Gospel relationships
Because most stations operate around the clock, consider including every shift in some way. Your church may even discover that a one-week ministry becomes the beginning of a year-round relationship. Some congregations continue visiting throughout the year, providing meals, praying for prayer requests, encouraging families or even beginning Bible studies with interested personnel. What starts with appreciation can grow into genuine gospel relationships.
This is also a wonderful opportunity to involve every generation in your church. Children can create thank-you cards and banners. Student ministries can assemble gift bags. Small groups and Sunday School classes can prepare meals or treats. Senior adults can write notes of encouragement. The entire church family can participate in expressing Christ’s love to those who faithfully protect our communities. For some churches, coordinating with local first responders to cater a meal or bring in pastries is a great way to show thanks.
Jesus taught that even a cup of cold water given in His name matters. This September, let’s once again demonstrate the love of Christ through simple acts of gratitude and encouragement. Together, our churches can remind the men and women who serve our communities that they are deeply appreciated — and that the people of God are praying for them.
It’s one special way to honor our first responders and shine the light of Christ, especially during this 25th anniversary year of the 9/11 tragedy.
Collecting testimonies, memories from 9/11
As we look toward the upcoming 25th anniversary of the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, The Alabama Baptist team is collecting testimonies, memories and photos from that day and the weeks that followed.
If you have a story to share — were in New York City that day, helped with recovery efforts, served in chaplaincy ministry or are connected in other ways — please share those with us. Your submissions will be considered for an upcoming print or digital publication.
Email those to news@thealabamabaptist.org or upload to the submissions portal at tabonline.org. You also may mail your submission to: 3310 Independence Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209. (TAB Media Group)
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