Isbell, Mary Jane

Isbell, Mary Jane

Westwood Baptist Church, Forestdale
Birmingham Baptist Association

Favorite Verse: Romans 8:28
Favorite Hymn: “One Day at a Time”
Hobbies: Cross-stitching, canning and housekeeping
Family Status: Married to John for 54 years; three children, Sally, Phillip and Tanya; six grandchildren; one great-granddaughter.

Mary Jane Isbell joined Westwood Baptist Church, Forestdale, in 1984, and for the last five years, she has directed the church’s homebound ministry. At 73 years old, she spends many hours each month coordinating and implementing various projects including delivering gifts and flowers to homebound members.

Q: What led you to work in this ministry?
A: I was involved with the homebound ministry back when we lived in West End. I have been involved with Westwood’s homebound ministry for the last five years. That’s where my heart has really been.

Q: Why have you continued through the years?
A: I just enjoy visiting the elderly and doing things for them.

Q: What does the ministry demand?
A: It demands that you check on your workers and see how their (homebound) person is doing. You really have to work at it sometimes a good bit. It’s letting the family know we want to [help] them. If they need us, call us.

Q: What do you get from the ministry?
A: I think it strengthens me as a Christian. It makes me feel real good that the Lord has given me the strength to do it. It gives you a good feeling to know that you are able to minister to people like that. I don’t do it to be recognized. I just do it because I love it. I guess it’s my calling.

Q: How do others support you?
A: I get good response from the church and friends. I’m over an eight-person team. I could not do it alone.