Barbara Childers has served under three pastors and seen a multitude of changes at First Baptist Griffin. Her greatest joys have been to know the people and to share in our struggles and in our joys. She has certainly been a pastor in her own right to countless people as she has ministered to them in person and on the telephone. She has loved working with brides and has been present to take care of those brides at the time of their wedding. She has carried our burdens as her own. Certainly these handful of words are too limited to share with her what she has meant to this Church.
Barbara has announced her retirement which will go into affect the end of September. The Finance Committee has authorized that a “Love Offering” be taken [which is tax deductible] as a sign of our affection. As a church, we are planning a reception immediately after worship on Sunday, September 24th. Dr. Bruce Morgan will also be preaching that morning in the Celebration Service. In order to facilitate well-wishers and cherished friends, we will set up the reception in the Welcome area outside the offices. Heavy refreshments will be provided as well as a basket to receive cards and letters affirming her ministry to us all.
Doubtless, many will drop by to speak with her in the next six weeks. Make these days memorable for Barbara who has served us faithfully and sacrificially.