The needs were great and yet the relief was scant and insufficient. She was reminded of the suffering every day as she gazed at the people around her.
Daily, the famine claimed lives. If nobody else could find a solution, she would have to try.
She would let the burden fall on her and pray for God’s help. Too late, it was discovered she had ceased to eat in order to allow others to have food.
Then, on Dec. 24, 1912, Miss Lottie Moon died.
I heard Miss Moon’s story often while growing up. Many times, I wondered what would have happened if the churches had responded before she decided upon her course of action. How many more years would she have been able to serve the Lord?
In Alabama, today, there is a great need. I am afraid that the relief is scant and insufficient. Already, she is taking steps to meet the needs on her own. History must not repeat itself due to the churches’ inaction. We must not allow her to slowly yet surely give her life. Who is she? She is the Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries (ABCH).
The ABCH has already reduced staff, closed two counseling sites, sacrificed various office resources, and is in the process of eliminating its pregnancy help line.
We must meet and surpass the financial needs of the ABCH. It is unacceptable that less than 1 percent of the Alabama Baptist State Convention budget is designated for the ABCH. The ABCH cannot operate for three weeks with this amount.
The church I serve, through its budget, gives 10 percent to the Cooperative Program, 5 percent to the association, designates a specific amount to the ABCH and receives a special offering for the ABCH during the year.
Alabama Baptists, we must act now. Please, collect a special offering. Designate a set amount in your budget. It is not too late for Alabama Baptists to do what is right.
Paul Hicks
Cullman, Ala.
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