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LET’S EXPLORE.
WE COVER THE PLACES YOU KNOW & LOVE AND THE PLACES YOU SHOULD GO & LOVE!
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FEATURES
InTERFAITh oF
58. GREEn CoUnTy
Lending a helping hand to those in need.
ON T H E C OV E R
ChURCh on ThE
62. FAmIly FARm
Martin County man constructed church that catches the eye.
Joe and Barbara Edwards spend quite a bit of time studing the Bible together. Photo by Thadd White
VOL. 12, NO. 6 NOVEMBER 2020 STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS oUT & 68. ABoUT
A few events are still happening over the holiday season
VIEwS FRom 70. oUR 12
Check out the beautiful outside view of local churches.
Publisher
Staff
Kyle Stephens
Gene Metrick
kstephens@ncweeklies.com
gmetrick@rmtelegram.com
Editor
shstalls@ncweeklies.com
Sarah Hodges Stalls
Thadd White
Deborah Griffin
twhite@ncweeklies.com
dgriffin@ncweeklies.com
Creative Services Director Michelle Leicester DAIly DEVoTIonS 72. FRom mInISTERS
All In A 78. DAy’S TRIp
Ministers share a time to speak with God on a daily basis.
I’m Fixin’ To Blog Author Meghan Grant tours Goldsboro.
mleicester@ncweeklies.com Photo Editor Jim Green jgreen@ncweeklies.com Advertising Executives Lou Ann Van Landingham
Editorial Contributors Leslie Beachboard Brenda Monty Sandy Carawan Sarah Davis Sylvia Hughes Gene Motley John H. Walker Hugh Davis Calvin Adkins Paige Minshew
lavan@ncweeklies.com Jessica Mobley
86. BIoGRAphy
89. mARK IT!
Learn more about the life and story of Larry Gaines.
Halifax County’s historic Tillery Resettlement is featured.
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Eastern North Carolina Living Magazine P.O. Box 69, Windsor, NC 27983
Kelly Ayscue
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Eastern North Carolina Living is published by APG Media Eastern NC, and is a subsidiary of the Bertie Ledger-Advance, The Enterprise, Tarboro Weekly and Rocky Mount Telegram.
5
Hertford COUNTY
Lovingly & Joyously proclaiming faith,
Through Her Work Story by Sarah Davis Photos by Hugh Davis & Contributed
6
W
hen she was ten years old, Beatrice Sue Bishop knew she
public health nurse and nursing instructor. Currently, the Certified
wanted to be a nurse; in fact, she was already a nurse,
Diabetes Care and Education Specialist for Roanoke Chowan
having established a first-aid station in her fifth-grade classroom
Community Health Center, she also serves as the volunteer parish
after Santa Claus brought her a nurse’s kit.
nurse for St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Hertford County.
In the more than six decades since those days as a “play” nurse
At about the same time she first became interested in nursing
in Margaret Jackson’s classroom at Pantego High School in Beaufort
as a vocation, Sue joined the 4-H Club whose motto, “To Make
County, Sue has become a “real” nurse, serving as a school nurse,
the Best Better,” is exemplified in its pledge: “I pledge... My Head
to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty,
having travelled by horse and buggy twelve
My Hands to larger service and My Health to
miles to the church.
better living for my club, my community, my country, and my world.”
Baptized and confirmed as a Methodist, Sue especially recalls two people of faith
That pledge has been a guiding force in
from Bethany: Delamar Sparrow, whose
Sue’s life. She has worked to make the best
Sunday School lessons taught her the joy of
better, in her community - whether Beaufort
faith, and Bessie Sparrow, whose end-of-the-
or Cumberland or Halifax or Hertford or Wake
year cookouts on the Pamlico River always
county - in the country and the world.
included hot dogs and grilled diamond-back
She has served the Episcoal Diocese of East Carolina as an Emergency Preparedness representative,
and
following
rattle snake. In addition to the example of regular
Hurricane
church attendance for people of faith, Sue’s
Katrina in 2005, she journeyed to Louisiana to
parents also provided the model for “faith in
provide medical care. She has travelled to the
action” that has always guided Sue’s journey
Dominican Republic on medical mission trips
of faith. Sue’s father was a charter member
sponsored by St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church,
of the Bath Ruritan Club that supported the
and, along with her husband and three
community through service projects, and,
children, opened her home to AFS students
in addition to their own five children, Sue’s
from Spain.
parents welcomed over seventy-five foster
To the teachings of 4-H that began guiding
children into their home.
her in childhood, she later added the teachings
After being active in all aspects of life at
of The Order of the Daughters of the King, an
Bethany Methodist during her childhood,
order for women in the Episcopal Church. Ever
including attending Vacation Bible School, of
mindful of its motto, “For His Sake... I am but
necessity held at night because the participants
one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but
were working in tobacco fields during the day,
I can do something. What I can do, I ought to
at age sixteen, Sue chose to become a part
do. What I ought to do, by the grace of God I
of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. There her
will do Lord, what will you have me do?”
Aunt Bessie played the organ and had taken
Sue is constantly “doing something.” By
Sue to Sunday School for Sara Tankard’s
offering her “presence, resources, prayers,
class. First attending St. Matthew’s as a pre-
compassion and time and ability to listen,” she
schooler, Sue recalls memorizing John 3:16 for
makes her journey of faith.
Ms. Tankard and singing in a youth choir with
That journey began in Beaufort County.
“
I was blessed to be surrounded by people of faith, and their faith just seemed to infiltrate my cells by osmosis.
her three sisters and two other youngsters.
She says: “I was blessed to be surrounded by
Confirmed by the Right Rev. Thomas
people of faith, and their faith just seemed to
H. Wright, fourth bishop of the Diocese of
infiltrate my cells by osmosis.”
East Carolina, Sue played the organ at St.
Among her earliest memories of people
Matthew’s and enjoyed EYC (Episcopal Young
of faith is of a special Aunt Sally, an African-
Churchmen) with youth from St. Matthew’s,
American family friend, who lived with Sue’s
St. Thomas, Bath and Zion, Washington. At
family part of the time. Sleeping in the same
Zion she met the Rev. Stanley Jenkins, one of
bedroom, Sue was privileged to see Aunt Sally
the very influential “people of faith,” whom
begin and end every day by kneeling in prayer.
she describes as a “saint walking this earth.”
Sue’s parents (John E., Sr., and Lila Mae
In addition to his influence on her journey
Tuten Bishop) were active members of
through the EYC, the summer Sue was a
Bethany Methodist Church where her father,
volunteer counselor at Camp Leach - having
the youngest of eleven children, recalled that
gotten permission from her father to leave the
his parents were the first to arrive at services
tobacco fields - Father Jenkins was Director
each Sunday morning in the early 1900s,
there.
7
After the deconsecration of St. Matthews,
Rapids for almost forty years where she and
providing transportation to an appointment.
the Bible used there became part of Sue’s
her family were active at Rosemary Street
Whatever and wherever the need, tangible or
personal religious library. It had been given to
Methodist Church.
intangible, Sue attempts to meet it.
St. Matthew’s by her aunt in memory of her
While in Roanoke Rapids, Sue was a public
In her mind’s eye, Sue can still see the
health nurse and a public school nurse. She
muddy road that led to her house with no
Leaving Beaufort County for Rex Hospital
established the first Health Occupations
electricity. She would hurry down the road to
School of Nursing in Raleigh, this Methodist-
Program at Roanoke Rapids High School,
catch the bus that would take her to her first
become-Episcopalian met Betty Babson
the first Health Careers Club, the first special
grade class, having to hurry because she had
(Pearce), her roommate, an Episcopalian who
education program at the recreational center,
been listening to the “Tommy Steele Radio
became a life-long friend. Definitely one of
sponsored the first 50-mile bike ride fund-
Devotional.” She sees Public Health Nurse
the people of faith who influenced Sue, Betty
raiser to support the program, and was the
Lovie Shelton on the same muddy road when
is responsible for Sue’s Altar Guild work and
first woman to wear pants to work in the
the family was quarantined as a result of strep
volunteer parish nurse status.
Roanoke Rapids School System.
throat. She sees her parents and all those
grandmother.
Together, they attended Church of the
On moving to Fred’s home county where
Good Shepherd in Raleigh and there met the
Sue continues in her nursing career, Fred
Goodwins, an elderly couple who befriended
and Sue became members of St. Thomas’
Their journey of faith has become her
them and gave them a ride to church every
Episcopal Church where Sue has continued to
journey of faith. Sue may only be one, but she
Sunday, thus preventing their having to take
honor the pledge she made as a 10-year-old
constantly asks “Lord, what will you have me
the city bus. Among other people of faith who
4-H member intertwined with the motto of
do?”
influenced Sue at this time were the Rev. and
The Daughters of the King.
foster children. She sees Aunt Sally and Aunt Bessie and the Sparrows and...
Answering that call, as a Daughter of
Mrs. Willis M. Rosenthal, she a librarian at Rex
Sue’s friend Betty was the first parish
the King, she recognizes - just as all those
Hospital and he director of religious education
nurse in Lincoln, Nebraska, and, following
who influenced her did - that faith is not to
at Christ Episcopal Church, Raleigh.
Betty’s example, Sue is the first parish nurse
be hidden but “to be lovingly and joyously
It was also at this time that Sue first became
in Ahoskie. With minimal financial support
proclaimed.”
a volunteer with the Red Cross, helping at the
from the Episcopal Church Women, Sue
North Carolina State Fair.
is able to meet needs she encounters in
Sarah Davis is a retired librarian and regular
After marrying Baptist Fred Liverman
the community, whether supplementing
contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living and
of Hertford County, Sue lived in Roanoke
someone’s diet or prescription meds or maybe
the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
“ 8
I pledge... My Head to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty, My Hands to larger service and My Health to better living for my club, my community, my country, and my world.
New Bertie County Public Library & Cooperative Extension Facility Opening January 2021
An investment in educational resources is an investment in the future of Bertie County
9
Hyde county
COUNTY
Whether in the Woods or on the Water,
He is with the Lord Story & Photos by Sandy Carawan
F
or 19-year-old Zac Eakes, God isn’t just found in the sun-
billowy seas of the Atlantic Ocean where fishing boats filled with
faded Bibles that line the back of the church pews, or in the
silhouetted men cast their lines against the morning sun’s canvas
old hymnals that have been sung in unison for generation after generation, or in the church itself.
10
of palette-rich oranges, pinks and yellows. A resident of Engelhard, Zac has lived in Hyde County all of
God can be found not only in the field, where droplets of
his life, being raised not only in a strong Christian home and a
dew cling to the brush as the sun rises glorious and warm over
supportive church, but also amid the great expanse of Hyde
the earth where the wild game roam, but also along the spacious
County’s beautiful landscape and waterscape.
A 2020 graduate of Mattamuskeet Early
been a reciprocity through the years in which
College High School with a certificate in
he has been positively guided by others who
welding from Beaufort County Community
have built relationships with him as he has
College, Eakes is the youngest son of Jay and
been doing with others.
Donna Eakes.
Throughout his young life, Zac participated
He is not only grounded as an avid
in 4-H. Now he serves as a leader working
outdoorsman and sportsman in Hyde County
and fellowshipping with children during
and eastern North Carolina, but he is grounded
the summer camp. Even though he meets
in the word of God and his walk in this world
some new children, he still knows a lot of the
with Christ.
children and they know him.
This selfless young man possesses a strong
Also, throughout his years as a student in
moral compass, driven by the direction in
the classroom and a talented athlete on the
which he allows God to lead him and goes the
basketball court and baseball field, Zac always
distance by serving Him in different ways.
gave his best and humbly carried himself
Zac relies on Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the
acting as a role model. He served as a member
Lord whatever you do, and He will establish
of the Senior Beta Club, Ducks Unlimited,
your plans,” as a means to enhance his
and the Future Farmers of America (FFA),
communication with God through meditation
completing service projects that benefitted
all the while bolstering his faith.
his community.
Zac has grown up in the Engelhard Christian
Zac has also coached a 12-Youth baseball
Church, of which he has been a lifelong
team as an assistant and from his experience
member. His connections to this church
as an athlete he has been able to share with
run deep as his family has not only been
his team his personal messages of inspiration.
members for several years, but The Rev. Scott
“I love working with kids, but in baseball
Sukeforth, his Paw-paw, ministered to the
especially, I’m trying to help them get better,”
church for years as well as his grandmother,
he insists. “I want them to strive to do their
Edna Sukeforth.
best. I tell them what I struggled with in
It is from this experience that Zac has
baseball or how I overcame something that I
gained a strong foundation for him to
could not always overcome as a way to help
spiritually walk with Christ, build relationships
them fix their problem.”
and guide others. “I grew up walking to church. I never drove to church. I’d always run out the front door and run across the yard and be at church in less than twenty seconds.” Through the years, Zac has been an active
Balancing a busy work schedule, Zac is able to combine his work with his love of hunting and fishing. He works for Coastal Producers in which his work varies between the field, office and occasionally guiding.
member in his church, participating in building
“One day I may be in the office keying in
projects, plays, parades, Christmas carol
invoices, and the next day I’ll be in the field all
singing and conducting Children’s Church.
day long,” he said.
He has worked with children not only between the ages of three to four, but also
He scouts crops and conducts soil samples, which he enjoys.
children between the ages of nine to twelve
“During harvest season, I’m in the field
reading Bible stories, allowing them to interact
checking on the farmer to see if he needs
with the story, and praying with them.
anything and I’ll go get it so we can keep him
“I like working with the little kids, which is really fun. But when I have to work with big kids, I enjoy it just as much,” he said.
“
I’d always run out the front door and run across the yard and be at church in less than 20 seconds.
working in the field,” Zac said. Additionally, he works at the Mattamuskeet Outpost, a faith-based organization that is a
In service to his community, Zac has
part of the Dare to Hyde Outdoor Adventures.
enjoyed other experiences in which there has
During the winter, he guides for black bear
11
and ducks. He is an extremely knowledgeable
His favorite fishing is white marlin, dolphin,
wants over Him. Just keep Him first and help
guide knowing the black bear and different
tuna, sword fish and bottom fish such as
other people to seek Him and know Him
duck species and their habits in Hyde County’s
snapper and trigger fish.
better.”
diverse habitats.
“I love making bait. When I go fishing we
Zac’s faith in God is an important part of
“I really do love bear hunting and duck
have sea witches, a hand-made bait with
his life as well as his leading by example and
hunting, but if I had to choose which one to
various colors that on certain days will attract
leading others to Christ.
guide it would be bear hunting all day long,”
fish. I give them to other boats and people will
Though he is young, he has established
he said.
ask me to make them for them so I’ve actually
himself not only within his community but
sold a few,” he said.
with his own peers as well as children much
While working at the Mattamuskeet Outpost, Zac says that he gets to meet a lot of new people and make friends, men
Of course, Zac encounters challenges that with God’s help he must try to overcome.
and women of all different ages, and some teenagers.
younger than him. This young man of faith is also a man of
“I keep my faith, but sometimes I go
strength, courage, perseverance and love not
through a situation that will put stress on me
only because of his relationship with God, but his desire to selflessly serve others.
Leading by example and living by faith,
and I remind myself to go back to the One
Zac states, “We always pray before every hunt
that knows best, the One that will show me,”
and every meal. We’re not just hunting; we are
admits Zac. “I always remember that the Lord
teaching people and growing relationships
may keep you strong in a situation to keep you
“I set many goals. One is to keep the faith
with them.”
from getting in a worse situation somewhere
and always strive to reach my goals and do my
down the line. I always tell myself little things
best.” He adds, “Don’t rush anything. Just live
that keep me in faith.
life one day at a time.”
In addition to hunting, he enjoys working out, charter fishing and making fishing lures.
Zac’s hopes for the future resonate with good advice for anybody of any age.
While Zac serves as mate on the 38-foot
“I’m always in continuous prayer,” he
charter boat Laura Linn out of Ocracoke, he
continues. “I pray all the time. I remind myself
Sandy Carawan is an English Language
also does a lot of fill-ins and ride-alongs with
to stop and thank the Lord for what He has
Arts teacher at Mattamuskeet Early College
different captains from Pirate’s Cove and
blessed me with and not just what I want. I
High School in Swan Quarter and is a regular
Ocracoke.
keep telling myself not to put my needs and
contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
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Northampton COUNTY
In the fields and in the classroom,
He is Laboring for God Story by Gene Motley Photos Contributed
L
eon Dickens admits he abhors wasted
located between Garysburg and Seaboard in
Christ at age 12 and I was even the first person
time and wasted ability. Perhaps that’s
Gumberry.
ever baptized in the church’s new baptistery,”
why he makes the most of that which he has been given. A true Northampton County native of the soil – born on a farm, and managing one
“I was born into a family that went to
he added.
church,” Dickens said. “We started going there
A graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with a
(Elam) when I was three years old, so I was
history degree, Dickens has spent the better
brought up in church.
part of 38 years in various capacities at
still – two of his great passions are his many
“It taught me Biblical truths and I had a
Northeast as a teacher (a post he holds to this
years of service to Northeast Academy in
Mommy and Daddy who lived a life of faith,
day), board member and former Headmaster.
Lasker, as well as to Elam Baptist Church
and believed church was important. I accepted
His wife Brenda was a dietitian at the school.
14
At Elam Baptist, Dickens has served as
The Dickens’ have three children and one
deacon, Sunday school superintendent and
grandchild. The couple are grateful for the
teacher, and choir director; while Brenda has
legacy they have left the world.
served as pianist at church and at school, and
“Among the blessings that I thank God
she has served, literally, in the lunchroom for
for every night is that our children have
30 years before she recently retired.
never been a burden, have always been
“I don’t care what kind of day you were
positive, and done so many things right,” he
having or how bad you felt coming to work,
acknowledged. “They’ve done a lot of good
once you saw those kids getting their lunch or
things and contributed to where they live.
those snacks, they would just make you feel
They did the best they could. That is such a
so much better,” Brenda says.
great accomplishment for young people.”
Leon credits his Christian faith for being
Dickens involvement with Northeast began
more than the foundation of his life, it’s also
with his children's’ attendance at the school
aided in helping him face life’s challenges.
in the 1980s and blossomed from there. He
“As a farmer, as a teacher, and as a human
was an administrator, got into teaching, then
being, everybody is presented challenges
returned to administration before moving
in life from sickness, finances, workload and
back to the classroom recently.
things that happen that you just don’t know
“I tell my students I don’t want to come
why,” he explains. “(A recent) Sunday School
to school and not teach because that’s when
lesson said, ‘fret not, don't worry about things
I’ll quit,” he boasts. “I just love teaching so
that are out of your control because God is in
much. We have all kinds of students, some
control, trust him’.”
of everybody, and they’re all so respectful to
Drawing further on his Biblical teachings,
themselves and the adults.”
Dickens maintains that everyone struggles
“Northeast is just such a big part of
with the depths of their faith and keeping the
our family,” Brenda insists. “Our first child
faith.
attended in 1985 and we’ve been there ever
“Whenever I look around and question the
since. It’s just a part of us. I just like people.”
way things are, all I have to do is look around
Brenda’s love of people came from being
and see how blessed and fortunate I have
the daughter of a grocer and learning to strike
been,” he said.
up a conversation over the most innocent of
“As a farmer, one of the things that will
things.
always test you is the weather, so its a matter
“I’m like him, I love people and I can talk
of faith for me to keep the faith God will look
to most everybody,” she insists. “Somebody
out for us regardless of what the weather is
asked me, ‘How do you just talk to the people
if we put our trust in him,” Dickens maintains.
in the grocery line, do you know them?’; and
“God works through people, and He chooses
I’ll say nope, but if you just say it’s a hot day
to work through people.”
outside you’ll find somebody who’ll talk to
Dickens believes in ‘paying it forward’; a chance to help others succeed and advance. “Every chance we get to pass along some
you.” In their 55-year marriage, the Dickens’ like to say they work off each other.
help to someone else who needs it we look
“He’s got points that I don’t have and we
for that opportunity and are glad to help out,”
have a good life,” she said. “He’s the backbone
he said.
and I thank God for him. We have a good life,
“We’ve had a lot of trying times and things
“
He’s the backbone, and I thank God for him. We have a good life, and I’m thankful for it.
and I’m thankful for it.”
that have tested our faith,” Brenda conveyed. “But then you’ll have things that’ll turn it all
Gene Motley is a retired Sports Editor and
around and that’s when you know it was faith
Sports Director and regular contributor to
that made it all happen.”
Eastern North Carolina Living.
15
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17
Bertie county COUNTY Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6
With puppets, prayers and praise
They Lead Children to Jesus Story by Thadd White Photos Contributed
N
early five decades of ministry followed what some would
“Sister Asiatico was doing children’s church, but was also
say was happenstance, but others would say was a divine
playing the organ, and she asked me to help her,” Brenda recalled.
appointment. Shortly after professing faith in Christ and beginning to
18
“I went in to help her, and the next Sunday she said she had to play the organ and left me to do it.”
regularly attend Askewville Assembly of God, Brenda Hoggard
Not long after, George Henderson Hoggard joined his wife –
was asked to assist the then pastor’s wife – Myrna Asiatico – in
both in following Christ and in helping with children’s church – and
children’s church.
thus began the groundwork for a ministry that started in the 1970s
and is still going strong today.
The puppet ministry began when
Over the next 40 years – and through
the Hoggards made a trip to a church in
three different pastors – the Hoggards have
Murfreesboro and decided to adapt what
continued their work with the children of
they saw to their ministry.
Askewville Assembly of God and houses
“It’s just a good feeling when people
of worship near and far. They have worked
come up and talk about the days they
with more children than either can count,
were in children’s church with ‘Uncle Hen
seen professions of faith and guided those
and Aunt Bren’ and they remember the
moving into adulthood to become children’s
puppets.”
ministers themselves. Henderson said he was reluctant at first, but his wife’s faith led him to church. “I didn’t want to go, but she gave her heart to the Lord and here we are,” he mused. As they look back on that decision to give
Henderson said most of the puppets were animals in the early days of the ministry and that he is still amazed when people remember the names. “I occasionally get asked if we still have the puppets from the early days,” Henderson said. “We still have all of them.
their hearts to God and follow His direction
“When I do puppets, I try to make them
into children’s ministry, both said they know
look real, act real and talk real,” he added.
they made the right decision.
“We worked hard to never let anyone know
Is there a time when they saw their faith as essential in survival? “Every day,” Brenda said. “Raising
exactly who was behind the stage. The thrill of it for me has always been watching the children laugh.”
children and working and doing all of the
As children have aged out of children’s
daily activities. I couldn’t make it without
church, many have expressed a desire to
him. I don’t know how people make it
come back and be part of the ministry. After
without the Lord.”
a three month hiatus, they are welcomed
Henderson agreed, “Without him I
back for training.
wouldn’t have made it. I’m still human, and
“I’d say 50 percent of the children
I still make mistakes, but He’s there to pick
that age out want to come in and help,”
me up and forgive me when I fall.”
Henderson said.
Both said they were thankful for
“Training the next generation in ministry
whatever part they were allowed by God to
is why we have so many people in place
have in the lives of the children they teach.
now,” Brenda added.
“The most rewarding part is seeing
Currently, the Hoggards are part of a
the children who went through children’s
Children’s Ministry team which has five
church who then turn around and minister
different groups that take turns leading
themselves – as pastors, missionaries,
children’s church each Sunday.
children’s workers or whatever they are
“We have five teams so we only do
called to do,” Brenda said. “There have been
children’s church every fifth Sunday now,”
many others who taught them too, but we
Brenda said. “It feels good to know that if
are glad to be a small part of their lives and
something happened to us today, it would
then to see where God has taken them.”
go right on.”
Though children’s ministry involves a lot
She said the adults and youth are
of disciplines – from Bible Study to arts and
dedicated to keeping the children’s ministry
crafts – the one most synonymous with the
alive and work hard to do their part.
Hoggards is puppeteering. “Henderson knows how to make a puppet come alive,” Brenda stressed.
“
It feels good to know that if something happened to us today, it would go right on.
Still, when called upon, the Hoggards are glad to be back in the classroom. “When I get in there, I still love it,”
19
Henderson said. “I can’t get up and down as
Beginning with the Asiaticos and continuing
easy as I used to, but I still enjoy it. We just
through the Rev. and Mrs. Van Willis and
knew we couldn’t keep doing it every day.”
an interpreter, but the children loved it.”
continuing through the Rev. R.O. Denton Sr.
And it is those children who have kept
While helping guide youth in the church,
and Naomi and the Rev. R.O. Denton Jr. and
them back to the ministry for more than 47
the Hoggards raised three children of their
Cheryl, the Hoggards said they found spiritual
years.
own – all of whom helped in the ministry and
guidance and friends.
have gone on to minister in their own way. “Sometimes you look back and feel maybe they were left out,” Henderson said.
“I would say Rev. Asiatico was my spiritual father and I have had good relationships with every pastor since him,” Henderson said.
“We didn’t want to show favoritism and
“For me, I’ve been close to each of the
maybe we went too far to make sure we
pastor’s wives and they have always been
didn’t,” Brenda added.
supportive of me,” Brenda added.
Their own concerns aside, they said all
She also has another spiritual mentor.
“Their hearts are so tender,” Henderson said. “They have such great faith.” During prayer time, the Hoggards have heard requests for dogs, cats and a variety of other animals, as well as the heartfelt need of parents. Still, the best feeling for the Hoggards is seeing children come to Christ.
three children – Greg, Stephanie and Joseph –
“It may sound strange to some people,
were there helping them practice and working
but when my daughter, Stephanie, became a
in the ministry in their own way.
missionary, I always looked up to her,” Brenda
The Hoggards said they have loved every
“It’s wonderful. In fact, there should be a bigger word than wonderful,” Brenda said.
In fact Stephanie Hoggard Stewart now
said. “I saw her ministry and her heart and it
minute of the time they’ve spent not only in
works as one of the team leaders for children’s
gave me encouragement. I saw faith lived in
children’s ministry, but in serving God. And,
church and her children work with her on
her.”
while they appreciate the accolades, they’re
the team. Greg went on to play the piano at
Stephanie isn’t the only Hoggard who was
Askewville Assembly, so isn’t involved in the
on the mission field, however, as her parents
children’s ministry.
have conducted Kids Crusades as nearby as
Joseph was a really good puppeteer when he was involved in the ministry, according to his parents. While they have guided many – including their children – in the paths of the Lord, the
“
a curtain for us to do the puppets, and we had
Ebenezer Assembly of God and as far away as India.
And maybe that desire to follow God’s will and give even more to His service is why they
They have also ministered in churches
are closing in on their golden anniversary of service to both the children and to the God
Carolina.
they serve.
“Ministering in India was an unreal
the most part, been the pastors of Askewville
experience,” Brenda said. “There were people
and their wives.
as far as we could see. People were holding up
20
“My feeling is I would like to have done more,” Henderson said.
of multiple denominations in eastern North
Hoggards said their spiritual mentors have, for
When I do puppets, I try to make them look real, act real and talk real. We worked hard to never let anyone know exactly who was behind the stage. The thrill of it for me has always been watching the children laugh.
slow to accept them.
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20 KJV CSIC is a multi-ethnic, multi-generational body of believers whose vision is to love all people, win them to Christ, build them in discipleship, and send them out to fulfill their divine destiny!
www.csicministries.com
21
Martin
COUNTY
Divinely led to preach at a young age
And Still Following God’s Call Story & Photos by Jim Green
B
ishop Jerry McCrary has served in many capacities during
not even surprised. She said for me to do what the Lord told me
his nearly five decades in the ministry. But McCrary – who
to do.”
turned 59 years old on Oct. 20 – has only found one true calling. “I knew in my heart I was born to preach, no doubt about that,” said McCrary. “I accepted my calling when I was 12 years old.
22
But back then (in the 1970s), the notion of a child preacher didn’t exist. “There was never a time when I doubted (my calling), but to
“I went to my mom one day and told her the Lord had called
me, I’d become an anomaly, a phenomenon,” McCrary said. “I
me to preach – I knew it. It was inevitable; it was the call. She was
only knew of one other child preacher and he was in Chicago at
the time and well established. It gave me
would be the preacher,” he said. “I wore an
validation.”
old choir robe that (the) Rev. Dr. Otis Parks
Jerry McCrary is the eldest of five sons
(Little Friendship United Free Will Baptist
born to Bishop Jerry T. and Elder Joyce
Church in Mount Vernon, N.Y.) let me keep.
McCrary.
We played church and I went through
As with everyone in his family, McCrary
the whole format – at the age of 7 or 8.
started attending church at a young age
My family members were just awestruck
and was quite taken with the ministers who
because nobody had ever seen anything
delivered the Sunday message.
like that, but for me, it was natural.”
“It was understood in my family there
McCrary made his confession of faith
was no question – you were going to church
at the age of 8. After his parents relocated
and had no voice,” he said. “Typically in the
the family back to North Carolina, McCrary
black family at that time, it was mandatory.
preached his first official sermon at the
I don’t care if you went out and partied
age of 13 on Mother’s Day – May 11, 1975
Saturday night and didn’t get in until 7
– at his new home church, Hattie’s Chapel
o’clock Sunday morning, you were still going
United American Free Will Baptist Church
to church.”
in Hassell.
Born in Williamston and a native of
“For some reason I felt nervous,” he said.
Parmele, McCrary moved to New York with
“There were people everywhere. Coming
his parents when he was just a toddler.
from miles around, they were thinking,
“I started going to Little Mount Bethel
‘What can a child tell us?’
Missionary Baptist Church in the Bronx
“I remember walking into the sanctuary
when I was 2 or 3 years old,” he said. “I was
and gasping because I had never seen that
always fascinated and infatuated by the
many people,” he added. “I had to reset,
preachers ever since I could remember,
wipe the sweat and breathe. My mom and
and my godparents were in the ministry
others reassured me. My message was ‘Now
together. As I started having a consciousness
is the Time.’”
of self and the church, the ministers always
On Oct. 11, 1975, he was licensed
fascinated me by their demeanor, the way
and ordained as an Elder at the Annual
they carried themselves, how they were so
Conference of the Northeast “B” Division
regal and spoke with such authority and yet
of the UAFWB Denomination, making him
with such compassion. I loved their suits
the youngest ordained Elder in the history
and the way they dressed.”
of the denomination.
McCrary used to loved to hear his
McCrary preached at revivals and other
grandfather – the Rev. Howard Wesley
religious events such as crusades, tent
McCrary – preach.
services and seminars up and down the
“He would stir a church and knew how to reach the people and how to bring them to a crescendo,” he said. “My paternal uncle – actually several of them – were preachers.” As he grew up, McCrary was active in any
“
It was understood in my family, there was no question you were going to church and had no voice.
East Coast for several years, from New York all the way to Florida. “My attitude from the age of 12 – and still is – is, I am going to go where the Lord needs me to go,” he said. “
youth-oriented activity that involved the
My mom was my chauffeur back then
church, from being and serving as president
and those were fun exciting trips. We would
of the youth ushers and youth choir. He also
sing, talk about the last sermon and do what
would get together with some of the other
normal families do – we just emphasized
family members and “play church.”
the spiritual aspect,” he added.
“Growing up, kids used to play house,
McCrary graduated from Roanoke High
right? I’d get all my cousins together and I
School (now South Creek) and earned his
23
undergraduate degree in Psychology and
consecrated to the Episcopacy during the Holy
Social Work from Shaw University. He also
Convocation of Love-N-Fellowship Ministries
Another time was in 1985, when an
attended Shaw Divinity School.
Inc., with Bishop Claudie H. Wilkins presiding.
electrical fire destroyed the family home in
you to leave your footprint in the earth.”
In August of 1991, McCrary began working
It was held at McCrary’s current home church,
Parmele. McCrary, 22 years old at the time,
extensively in youth ministry and founded
Roberson Chapel Word of Life Ministries,
lost his first preaching robe that Pastor Parks
The Youth Conference Inc., an organization
Inc. in Parmele, which was founded by his
gave him, his glasses, keepsakes he wanted
composed of Martin, Bertie and Hertford
grandmother Fannie Mae Perkins Roberson.
to pass on, cassettes of sermons and video
counties as well as other surrounding counties
His aunt, Shirley Powell, is the senior pastor.
footage of him at revivals.
in eastern North Carolina. It was established
McCrary and members of his family have
“I told God I didn’t understand what was
to assist youth in artistic, academic, social and
helped start and served at many churches,
going on, but once I expelled that negative
spiritual development.
and for numerous denominations, and he
energy, it was immediately replaced with
been involved in many groups over the years,
positive reassurance,” he said. “It happened
whether as a founder or an active member.
and was bad, but all things work together for
Over the course of several years, McCrary met several people to whom he attributes his spiritual and ministerial growth: Archbishop William Spain of The Glorious Church in Raleigh; and Bishop Charles E. Drake (of the Church of God in Christ) in Los Angeles, Calif. “Dr. Blake taught me many things: excellence among them. He was a humble person,” McCrary said.
But even he has had times where his faith was tested. As early as 14, he was hearing discouraging
good. It was for a purpose and a reason, and we have to follow and trust Him.” What does Christianity mean to McCrary?
words from some adults who thought he was
“To me it means being an ambassador on
too young to be a preacher. His mother heard
earth for Christ,” he said. “It is the symbol of
the same things.
who God is and His love for us. He loves us
“Her response was, ‘I will support my
more than what we give him credit for – He’d
Regarding Spain – who died in July due to
son if this is what he wants to be, and who
rather love us than judge us. It is about love,
complications from COVID-19 – McCrary said,
am I to tell him when or when not to stop
caring, compassion, altruism… all the things
“He was a mentor on several different levels:
preaching?’” he said. “She eradicated all my
that would make your life here on Earth
he was a father figure, best friend, confidante,
doubt by saying ‘As long as the Lord and your
better.”
a great Biblical teacher, gifted, funny, down to
mother are with you, you don’t have anything
earth…we cried together and had the best of
else to worry about.’ It’s as if God gave me a
Jim Green is Interim Editor of the The
times.”
vocal impression – this is who you are and
Enterprise and Photo Editor of Eastern North
what I created – this is the seed that will allow
Carolina Living.
In
“
24
August
of
2010,
McCrary
To me, it means being an ambassador for Christ. It is the symbol of who God is and His love for us. He loves us more than we give Him credit for - He’d rather love us than judge us.
was
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25
Gates
COUNTY
Beginning at an early age,
Her Faith Began to Flourish Story by Leslie Beachboard Photos by Leslie Beachboard & Contributed
C
laire Presley says her faith in God began to flourish at a
Presley said growing up in her neighborhood was a lot of fun.
young age.
“All of the children would roam the neighborhood. We would
Presley grew up in Petersburg, Virginia where she, along with
her parents John and Marrion Titmus, lived with her grandmother, Maude Camron. “My grandmother was a strong, spiritual lady. It was not just in her words, but also in her actions,” Presley recalled.
26
ride bikes and skate. We had a lot of fun together. It was good times,” she added. Presley and her family attended Monumental Baptist Church. She said this is where her foundation began. “This is where my spiritual growth developed. My parents made
sure I was always at church. As far back as
with the children to visit. It was also special
I can remember, church was a big part of
to visit,” she added.
my life. It was about worshipping God, and
Presley worked for 12 years at a Christian
the fellowship with other families. When I
book store in Suffolk, Virginia until her
grew up it was not the case to go anywhere,
daughter had twins.
anytime,” She added.
Presley said that after her husband
Presley says she remembers as far back as attending beginner Sunday school as a little girl.
retired it was a hard time. “We had to find a new church and that was hard after being where we were for 38
“I remember we would sing and have a
years,” she continued.
Bible story. When we were done we could
The couple joined First Baptist Church in
go into the other rooms to play. I remember
Ahoskie, and Presley said she became active
a little house that we all wanted to get in and
with the choir and music, mission work and
play,” Presley continued.
the Women’s Missionary Union (WMU).
During her junior year in high school, Presley’s
family
relocated
to
“My faith has been tested over the years,
Colonial
but it was my faith that gave me the strength
Heights, Virginia, and joined Woodlawn
to get through those things. The loss of my
Baptist Church.
husband in February 2019 was the hardest,”
She met her soon-to-be husband, Billy Presley through the church. He was attending seminary at Wake Forest University.
said Presley. “He was sick for a while. It was hard to watch him decline. “It was hard. Billy was in the hospital
“The pastor of the church was also a
every two months. In the end we brought
seminary student there, and he introduced
him home. We had many good times here.
us,” she added.
He was tired of fighting. The children were
The two were married on June 18, 1961. Shortly after they were married, her husband accepted a position at Woodlawn Baptist Church in Florida. Presley said she enjoyed being in Florida, and that living in the panhandle was not much different than what she was used to. While in Florida, the Presley’s welcomed their first child, DeAnna. Two years later, Presley returned to Colonial Heights. Her husband would commute to Southeastern University.
close. I don’t know what I would have done without them,” she continued. Amongst the things which built her faith were the many mission trips she took over the years. “I have been to West Virginia three times. I went to Alaska. We did construction and taught Bible school. I went on a trip to Pennsylvania. We went as a support system for the pastor’s wives,” she said. Presley said her trip to the Ukraine 8 years ago was an eye opening experience.
“Not quite a year later in 1964, we moved
“Here we take everything for granted.
here. Billy accepted the pastor position at
They would save every scrap of construction
Reynoldson Baptist Church. We were there
paper. Everything was saved to be used
until he retired, 38 years later,” said Presley.
later,” she added.
The Presleys’ welcomed their second child, Billy Jr. in 1967. During her years at Reynoldson Baptist Church, Presley led the choir and fulfilled a variety of roles.
“
My parents made sure I was at church. As far back as I can remember, church was a big part of my life.
Presley still keeps herself busy, and spends a lot of time with her autistic grandson, Steven. “We do a lot of activities together, We volunteer at the food pantry, helping and
“The only vacations we would take would
packing boxes. I take him to his Easter Seal
be to visit my husband’s family in Mississippi.
programs. We spend a lot of time thrift store
We would drive from here to Mississippi
shopping. He really likes that,” she smiled.
27
Presley also participates with the Hanging
women have to sign an agreement to stay
problem. Faith takes you through the problem.
of the Green at Middle Swamp Baptist Church.
in the program,” she continued. “There have
Faith doesn’t always take away the pain. Faith
“It is very rewarding and fun directing.
been many success stories come from the
gives you the ability to handle the pain. Faith
People come together from all over,” she
program. It can be challenging, but also gives
doesn’t always take you out of the storm. Faith
added.
you the feeling of accomplishment.”
calms you in the midst of the storm, Amen.”
Presley also volunteers with the Christian
During her free time, Presley likes to read,
Women’s Job Corps through First Baptist
put together puzzles, work in the yard and
Church.
spend time at the river.
“This is a ‘hands up’ program’ to help women get on their feet. We help women find a job, repair their credit, build their self-esteem. The
“
28
My grandmother was a strong spiritual lady. It was not just in her words, but also in her actions.
Presley keeps an index card on the table next to her chair that reads: “Faith doesn’t always take you out of the
She says she reads it daily as a reminder of what her faith means. Leslie Beachboard is a former News Editor of the Bertie Ledger-Advance and regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
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Tyrrell
COUNTY
Servants of God in Mexico and the U.S.,
Filling a Musical Void Story & Photos by Deborah Griffin
A
soft light emanating from the All Souls Catholic Mission in Tyrrell County beacons weary sojourners traveling
westward on U.S. 64 on recent a Saturday night. The music wafting from inside the small church in Columbia is reminiscent of Old Mexico. Father Carlos N. Arce, a Franciscan bilingual pastor from Nicaragua, performs mass for a handful of Spanish speaking
30
immigrants, who have left Mexico seeking a better life. Jose Gonzalez, 44, grew up in Mexico City dreaming of what a life in America would be like. When he was 21, he received the opportunity to leave home for America, and never looked back. He found a life in the vacation destinations of Nags Head and Manteo, doing landscaping.
“I was supposed to come for only a year, but I have been here 20,” he said. Gonzalez plays a 12-string guitar and sings at the mission. He and his cousin,
Jose said his journey to faith began as a young boy growing up in Mexico. “[In Mexico], I used to go [to church]– and that’s it,” he said.
Ricardo Gonzalez, and Ricardo’s family,
After he came to America, he began
travel from Manteo to Columbia (about
drink a lot. His boss invited him to church
45 minutes) every Saturday night to
one day, and he turned him down.
lead music for congregants of the small, hispanic mission. About a year and a half ago, the Gonzalezes
“After a while, I began to go - little by little,” he said.
were
traveling
He also learned to play the guitar.
through
“I started to play a little bit - then I quit
Columbia when they realized the small
drinking and I quit smoking. I just stayed
church at the intersection of the four-lane
focused a little bit more on church,” he
highway and Main Street had no music.
said.
“One day we went by the church and
His life completely changed.
saw that nobody was singing. It was so
“A lot of people ask me about it. It is
sad,” said Gonzalez. “We saw that nobody
hard to explain. I tell them I can explain it
was playing here so we decided to play
to you a little bit - but you have to find out
here.”
for yourself,” he said.
The family’s love for music is evident
“Once you stop the way you were
during worship. Ricardo and his wife,
living - it is awesome - I can’t explain it,”
Lourdes Martinez, also play guitar and
he added.
sing, and their young sons - Dylan, 9, plays
Before he changed - if he did ask
the keyboard and sticks, and Mitchel, 6,
God for help, “It was from here,” he said,
plays maracas.
pointing to his head, “never from the
Jose said at their home church in Nags
heart.”
Head, there was already an abundance
Jose said he is teaching his fiancee to
of musical talent - about 15 people play
play guitar. She currently sings with the
instruments in the church they attend on
small family band.
Sundays.
“
It is hard to explain. I can explain it a little bit - but you have to find out for yourself.
From Tabasco, Mexico, Cupil came to
The family soon realized All Souls Mission was their ministry.
Tyrrell County to work in the crab industry, which draws immigrant workers seeking a
Gonzalez said their desire is to reach
better life.
people living in Tyrrell County, where a
She said it is a hard way to make a
growing hispanic community is changing
living. Workers hand-pick fish and crab
demographics,
more
meat from carcasses, sometimes for as
immigrants seek work in the fish and crab
as
more
and
many as nine hours in a row, and some
industry.
shifts not ending until two or three o’clock
Jose said they want to increase the
in the morning.
number of people attending the mission.
Cupil worked at the fish house for six
“[We hope] they would like to come
months. When Gonzalez met Cupil, he
and enjoy [the music] for a little bit,” he
convinced her to leave the fish house
said. “We try to make people happy for an
behind, and she began cleaning cottages
hour or so,” he said.
in Nags Head.
Jose met his [now] fiancee Adriana Cupil while playing at the mission. “We are thinking about getting married next year,” he said.
When asked what her life would be without God, Cupil’s eyes glisten with tears. She explains through an interpreter
31
that in Mexico, somebody murdered her
was up to about 30 people, Jose said. Since
24-year-old nephew. She said she and her
March, attendance has dropped. On a recent
No matter the attendance, the family
daughter have grown closer to God through
Saturday, only two others, besides the
doesn’t hesitate to travel the distance to
the situation. The murderer has still not been
Gonzalez family, attended mass.
Columbia.
charged.
here and play,” he added.
“Sometimes I feel bad, because before
“Maybe it is just a little church - but, we
Ricardo has played the guitar 25 years.
[COVID-19], people had started coming in.
think like the church is full,” said Jose. “We
He spent most of his life attending church in
Now nobody wants to come - because they
don’t care if it is one or two persons.
Mexico. In 1996, he left his home country to
are scared,” said Jose.
work at the fish house in Wanchese. His sister, brother and parents are still in Mexico. His wife, Lourdes, likes playing and singing
“It is kind of sad,” he continued. “A lot of
people might think we get paid for it. We do
the hispanic community live within a [two
it for free. We try to make people happy for a
minute] walking distance of the church, but
little bit. We try and to share with people what
nobody comes.”
we can, what we know,” he said.
at All Souls because she wants to be as close
He knows the virus has kept many away.
to God as she can be. She also attended
“Everybody makes excuses,” he lamented.
church growing up in Mexico, but it has only been in the past 20 years, since moving to
He feels it shouldn’t be hard for people to find an hour out of their day to come.
America, that church has become a bigger
“God is with you all day,” he said.
part of her life.
For the Gonzalez’s, the time commitment
The ministry the family delivers is not dependent the number of parishioners. At one time, All Souls Mission’s attendance
“ 32
(We hope) they would like to come and enjoy (the music) for a little bit. We try to make people happy for an hour or so.
“We do it because we like it. Sometimes
is much greater, but does not seem to be a burden. “It takes us two to three hours to come
Jose said he hopes they are a beacon of hope during these times of uncertainty. “Sometimes you are sad - if we are playing something good, then maybe it can touch your heart and change your mind,” he said. Deborah Griffin is a Staff Writer for The Daily Reflector in Greenville and Eastern North Carolina Living.
33
Halifax
COUNTY
No matter where life has taken him,
He’s Not Ashamed of the Gospel Story by Thadd White Photos by Thadd White & Contributed
“
part of a Christmas play when he was eight years old.
You might say the church scared the devil out of me.”
34
That’s how Joe Edwards described the events that led to his
“A part of the play was about the second coming of Christ,”
profession of faith in Christianity as a youngster, and to a lifetime
Edwards recalled. “They had trumpeters there and none of us
commitment to live up to the Bible’s command to not “be
knew it – well I didn’t for sure. All of a sudden at the second coming
ashamed of” the gospel.
they blasted the trumpets and scared everyone to death.”
Edwards, who was born in the Virginia mountains, was living in
Edwards went on to be baptized at Woodlawn and continued
High Point and attending Woodlawn Baptist Church when he was
attending church there until he left for service in the U.S. Army.
Following his time in the military, Edwards
spent time teaching Sunday School,
would settle in Miami, Florida and find
working with the visitation program and
himself attending First Baptist Church there.
doing anything else he felt he could do to
It was at that time, the church called a young
help the church.
minister named Dr. Charles Stanley – who
Just five short years later, Edwards left
went on to become a fixture on television
the man he has become to know as his
and pastored First Baptist Church in Atlanta
pastor and moved to Winston-Salem,
for nearly five decades - to serve as pastor.
where he attended Main Street Baptist
Edwards quickly befriended the new
Church in Kernersville. There he also got
pastor and the two worked hand-in-hand as
involved and participated in church.
they founded the George Mueller Christian
It was a few short years later he was on
Academy. In fact, Edwards drove a truck all
the move again for Bell South, this time
the way to Liberty, North Carolina to collect
settling in Raleigh where he became a
desks for the new school.
member of Leesville Baptist Church.
With the school up and running,
Once there he again spent time working
Edwards focused on working with troubled
with the young men in the church, including
youth at the church. He did everything from
coaching them in softball and basketball.
appearing in court to forming a softball
His teams again won city championships,
team, taking them swimming and helping
just as they had in Miami.
them through their issues.
While in Raleigh, Edwards met his wife,
“I spent some time with each one
Barbara, and the two hit it off. Both had
of them each week,” he said. “I loved
been through divorce, each had a son and
working with them and they seemed to get
they found themselves drawn together.
something out of it.”
Together they began attending Calvary
He guided them to learn the error of their
Baptist Church in Durham, and the two
ways and helped them have fun – including
were married there and attended church at
winning a city title with his softball team.
Calvary until they retired to Littleton some
Edwards relayed a story about a
years later.
youngster who was caught stealing cars
Despite Barbara’s upbringing in the
and became part of Edwards’ program.
Methodist Church, and Joe’s longtime
The young man said he felt he had to take
affiliation with Baptist churches, the two
the cars when people left their keys inside.
have helped each other grow in their faith.
Several years later, the young man walked
They attended Methodist and Baptist
in Edwards’ office in Raleigh and told him he
churches in Raleigh, before settling at a
had grown up to become a pastor.
local Baptist congregation when retiring to
“He told me, ‘I wanted to come by and show you what you helped start.’ I felt good about it,” Edwards recalled.
Littleton. But before he retired, Bell South allowed Edwards and his family to meet a variety
While Miami was a beautiful place
of U.S. Presidents during their visits to the
and ministry, Edwards worked for Bell
state, and the opportunity to go aboard Air
South and soon was promoted to Atlanta,
Force I on several occasions.
Georgia where he worked in the company’s headquarters.
“I loved working for Bell South,” he said. “In fact, even after I retired I went back to
While in Atlanta, he also renewed the
work to help them with recovery efforts in
acquaintance of his friend Dr. Charles
Florida following Hurricane Wilma. They
Stanley, who by then had become Pastor of
called and asked for me to go, and I couldn’t
First Baptist Church of Atlanta.
say no.”
Edwards soon joined the church and
“
I spent time with each one of them each week. I loved working with them, and they seemed to get something out of it.
It was the year 2000 when the Edwards’
35
made the move from Raleigh to Littleton on
Littleton and Halifax County area as well as
While Joe sings and plays with friends in
a permanent basis.
teaching seniors at the Weldon Day Center
a music group – the Sonshine Trio - Barbara
to play guitar.
entertains seniors as “Ummons the Clown.”
Once there, they settled in a local church and began ministering in a variety of ways. Joe
became
Sunday
School
Director,
Chairman of the Deacons and a member of the building and grounds committee while
He said he has a strong desire to finish
They often went to nursing homes together
teaching those seniors once COVID-19 is no
– before COVID-19 – to entertain the senior
longer an issue.
citizens who live there.
Looking back over the years, Edwards
Barbara directed the Young at Heart
said his faith in God has helped him through
program and helped with the church’s
bad times – including the death of his son
bookkeeping duties.
and difficult times at church.
Looking back, Edwards is glad he chose a life of faith in God. “Faith has brought the good things in my life; I would have regretted had I not
Edwards said he again hit it off with a
“If it hadn’t been for God, I wouldn’t have
accepted Christ,” Edwards said. “I like going
young pastor named Dr. Darren Lambert.
gotten through my son’s death,” Edwards
to church and I like worshipping God. I like
The two worked together and Dr. Lambert
said, recalling a dark time when his son David
serving God alongside Barbara.”
served the local congregation for a dozen
was killed in a car wreck at only 24.
years. Edwards was in the church building weekly, doing any maintenance or odd job he felt could help the church. While working inside the church, Edwards was also doing work for God outside the church – singing in nursing homes in the
“
36
If it hadn’t been for God, I wouldn’t have gotten through my son’s death.
Edwards said he liked sharing his faith,
While still feeling the loss of his son many
and always kept Romans 1:6 close to his
years later, Edwards said he is thankful God
heart, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel
put Barbara’s son, Blair, in his life.
of Christ: for it is the power of God unto
“He treats me just like his dad,” Edwards
salvation to every one that believeth…”
said. All-in-all the combined family has served God together and are happier for it.
Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
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37
Washington COUNTY
Thriving through mission ministry,
Pastor Enjoys the Fruits of Faith Story & Photos by Gene Motley
B
ishop Avery Barnes Sr. says he felt the spirit of God
Rock Holiness Church (also in Plymouth) where I first started in
compelling him to preach the Gospel at an early age.
1977,” Barnes recounts. “Bishop Gary Cooper was the pastor and
It would be his anointing that would come years later.
Two years afterward, in 1979, Barnes was appointed to Solid
at 528 Wilson Street in Plymouth, which he founded in the early
Rock’s deacon board and he was ordained as a minister there in
1980s. In 2020, he celebrated 38 years as an ordained minister.
1980.
“I founded my current church in ‘82, when I was still at Solid
38
my anointing was his way of letting me out.”
Barnes is the current Senior Pastor at Temple of Christ Church
“Bishop Cooper was a great teacher,” Barnes said. “Early on, I
had been singing with a rock-and-roll band
have one; but that’s when I made plans to
called the Psychedelic Souls and the King
take over the building on Wilson Street,” he
Cobras.”
admitted.
Barnes’ regular job was a 44-year career
Despite expansion renovations, Barnes
at Weyerhauser – both at the Landfill and
and the Temple of Christ outgrew the
at the pulpwood treatment facility, but he
former showroom and he went in search of
still maintained his ministry the entire time.
another facility. He didn’t have to look far:
His first church was on Wilson Street, near
an old building supply store came open on
where the current sanctuary stands today.
the same Wilson Street.
“We started at the Brooks house, a local
“Little did I know as a boy buying nails
family home, where I held prayer, taught
and glass that this was God saying that one
and preached and then the Lord blessed
day He would give this to me,” the Bishop
me with a building right there where I was
said. “So we later purchased the building
raised up,” he said. “I grew up on that street,
and the land and got started. The ministry
playing like young boys would do, passing
kept growing and growing and if everybody
by it every day and never knowing that this
had stuck with me, I would have had the
is where God wanted me to have a church.”
biggest congregation in town.”
The Wilson Street building had been an
Despite
a
new
sanctuary,
Barnes
automobile dealership in the sixties that
continued his remote ministry: visiting jails
later relocated.
and homes. He also then expanded to the
“They had a big showcase window there so people could look in and see all the pretty
radio in Plymouth at WBHD-AM radio until the station closed.
cars,” he continued. “After they moved out,
Barnes also returned to music, but this
they painted over the window with red
time with a gospel group called the ‘Sons
paint. Me being a young boy looking for
of God’. They have suspended recording
work, they asked me if I would scrape off
during the COVID-19 pandemic, but hope
the window, and I did it with a razor blade.”
to return to the studio sometime in 2021.
Barnes says while he didn’t realize it at
“Since this wasn’t my first one, I knew
the time, God was working in his life. His
how to go about things (in the music
pay for all the work of scraping the painted
business),” he acknowledged. “We have a
showroom window was a chili burger and a
CD we recorded back in the nineties, and
soda. He laughs about it to this day.
people still ask for it.”
“I wasn’t sassy or anything, because little
Back in the 1980’s, Barnes received a
did I know God was looking out for me,” he
commendation from then-North Carolina
relates.
Governor Jim Hunt for his prison ministry
As he approached his twenties, Barnes took his evangelistic work to the streets and into homes and prison.
work. “I thank God for how he has blessed me to have what I have in my hometown,” he
“It’s as Paul told Timothy, ‘Do evangelist
remarked. “When people want something
work for your ministry to make full proof of
done they look to me. Not because I’m great
your ministry’,” Barnes noted.
or anything, but because God has given me
At a revival a short time later, Barnes
favor in this town among whites and blacks.
stood when the revivalist asked pastors to
I look down on no man and a lot of young
stand, even though he had no church at the
people look up to me.”
time.
“
I spent time with each one of them each week. I loved working with them, and they seemed to get something out of it
Barnes counts as one of his friends
“I had no members, building, or anything,
another minister with Washington County
but the Lord told me to stand. When asked
roots: former North Carolina NAACP
the location of my church I admitted I didn’t
President Rev. William Barber II.
39
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” - Galatians 5: 22-23
“His mother and father taught me (at
“We have to have something for the young
“I couldn’t be where I am without her,” he
Plymouth High School),” Barnes says. “He’s
people to do because there is very little for
confessed. “I thank God for her because she
very educated and has a church in Goldsboro,
them to do here,” he insists. “I believe God will
stuck with me through the thick and thin for
but he’s there and I’m here where I feel I can
bless us with the finances, not just for Temple
the last 38 years of my ministry. She made
make the most difference.”
of Christ, but for the whole of Washington
me the Man of God I am.”
Barnes maintains his faith works for him
County. It will have recreation, training and
The couple have two children Shalawn B.
every day because he is constantly praying
education, and drug awareness services for
Saunders and Avery Barnes Jr. who both work
and talking to God.
addicts, and things like some folks have here,
as musicians with their parents in the ministry.
but this will be for all people.”
The Barnes’ also have eight grandchildren.
“Like Scripture says, I acknowledge him and he directs my path. I can’t start my day
Barnes currently oversees other Temple
without prayer. This helps my faith, especially
of Christ ministers, some from as far away as
Gene Motley is a retired Sports Editor and
in a time like this,” he noted.
Charlotte. He also credits his wife of 43 years,
Sports Director and a regular contributor to
First Lady Valtine Barnes with being one of
Eastern North Carolina Living.
Barnes believes a future Family Life Center is in the works one day for his hometown.
“ 40
I couldn’t be where I am without her. I thank God for her because she stuck with me through thick and thin for the last 38 years of my ministry. She made me the Man of God I am.
the inspirations of his life.
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Beaufort COUNTY
The belief in things unseen &
Assurance of Things Hoped for Story by Sarah Hodes Stalls Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls & Contributed
L
ast names on the gravestones resting at St. Peter’s Episcopal
then stopped going to church for about 20 years after my kids
Church read like a roll call of Beaufort County’s history
were born,” Nancy Hamblin explained.
makers. One Sunday, a woman who had relocated to Washington realized the church nestled in the trees at the corner of Market and Bonner streets was where she and her family needed to be. “I was born and raised a Lutheran out in Washington state and
42
When the family came to Washington, Hamblin’s 16-year old daughter told her, “Mom, we need to go to church.” On the day in question, Hamblin felt like she was at home. Today she credits her daughter for starting the movement that brought the family to and back to church.
She told her daughter, “this feels like
of him.”
home” and remains thankful for how
And he did.
things transpired and how it helped
The thing about faith, according to
prepare her for what was to come.
Hamblin, “it’s a gift anyone can receive if
For Hamblin, her walk through this world has not been easy. She has lost both husbands and a son.
they really desire it and ask and be open to looking places that God is present.” She
She believes the time following her first husband’s death “brought her to a place of confidence in my faith.”
continued,
“For
me,
God’s
presence shines forth a lot through people.” Hamblin strives to be watchful for
“I was laying in bed feeling terribly
those people sent across her path. It may
sorry for myself and everything else,”
be for her own benefit or in an opportunity
Hamblin explained. “And I had this feeling
to benefit someone else.
I was not alone.”
“During this time, there’s a lot of alone
And she realized she was not, and
time. I can’t do a whole lot physically, but
would never again be alone. Today people
I can try and connect with people and see
continue to cross her path that re-affirm
that spark, that divine spark in each other,”
this feeling.
she insists.
She is a firm believer God places
Hamblin added, “And then you
people in her path for a reason. One of
recognize that spark, and everyone
those was a former priest at St. Peter’s, Bill
around you – no matter of faith, no matter
Bradbury.
tradition, no matter dogma – you realized
“We were talking, and he said ‘Nancy, have you ever tried meditation? I think you’re the quiet, introspective type’,” she recalled. She
we are all one and in this together. And we can pull through this.” As the country continues to endure such
began
“
I can’t do a lot physically, but I can try and connect with people and see that spark, that divine spark in each other.
meeting
with
unprecedented,
chaotic
times
the
during the current worldwide pandemic,
meditation group he was leading and the
Hamblin leans on her faith to offer
practice stuck.
encouragement.
“It’s been a lifelong thing of mine every
“Have hope,” she said with the
morning to get up and just be quiet, figure
anticipation someone could be inspired
out what’s going on,” she explained.
by her words. “If you’ve asked for faith
This portion of her spiritual journey led her to a monastery visit for 10 days of peace, quiet and work.
and you’ve received it, you can during this time go with confidence and love.” Since the day Hamblin and her children
People she encountered during that
arrived at St. Peter’s, she has been finding
experience encouraged Hamblin to do a
her place at the church taking on various
spiritual timeline. She says the practice
roles, including but not limited to, altar
has been immensely helpful in her life.
guild, using her Spanish speaking skills to
The grief and fears that accompanied the loss of both husbands and her son have always been comforted with the knowledge that. “God was there.” When her son fell ill many states away,
work with the ESL or English as a Second Language Ministry. For years she served the church as a part-time employee focusing on evangelism outreach.
another special person was put in her path
“Basically I was the meet and greet
in the form of her son’s fraternity brother.
person at the door and to follow up and
The young man named Daniel told
see if there was anything the church
Hamblin, “He’s my brother. I’ll take care
could do for them or ever help them,” she
43
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She clarified it may not look exactly like we’d expect, but it will come. Although there have been heartaches along the way, Hamblin remains confident that her faith will see her through and for a divine purpose.
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Bertie Ledger–Advance Community News at your Fingertips Thadd White Editor twhite@ncweeklies.com
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also and itati dso In the plic s to rs The five days As theoutbreak suffered r gionSee – COwere on. MURDER, ations. WINDSOR pneumonia as – whi ARHS 3 serv death . a Cross double con- in Ber FILE PHOTO Cho American Red of the novel toll wan ch include ice tinues tie Cou from a result clim nty, says says plasma bed ofquotank , Perquim s Ber reto clim the effects dueittoalso t h o s e coronavirus. the con goal.Curritu , Hertfor ans, tie, changed to a drive-thru b met yearly While battling natiits with event was ck and d, Cam Paswho have chapter still nearly onally be back outdoors Rev. Denton COVID-19. The county For Life hopes to Gates den, recovered disease Bertie County Relay possible. Last year’s Remdesivir, May 14, 2021 if counf r o m receivedmany COVID-19 an event on Friday, have See DEAT COVID-19 as including HS, A6 may help patients, Donald t h o s e President s u f f e r i n g Trump. it was when But, from the plasma Rev. Denton they gave him virus. who a person County from One Bertie LESL recovered from IE B it EAC had THADD WHITE that Rev. Bertie man says he knows delighted with OARD in HBCOVID-19 Ledge did thru event. I’m cerns. Bertie Ledger-Adv r-Adv and I’m does, or at least well before saw a dramatic ance Denton ance we raised yearlong goal, set shut the funds Askewv his case. offWINDSOR American the THADD WHITE change. ille the novel coronavirus delighted we keptGloria All talk Rev. for now -R.O. ASK EWV ILLE Mayor The Carolina. particularly Bertie Ledger-Advance – One Bryant Society s are The down much of North not Cancer Ber- and tie able Denton . Jr. County town isat the said the See PLASMA, A5 “Buddy” cancer CommostBer townbattling behind “Given we were or those tie was audits, the have mis would subject had what said.but“We on its year filled with our event cussed sioners County WINDSOR – In a of LocalJordan forefront,” it is ent closures, to host working with had been thinkGovernm possibl the COVID-19-related Commisfundraisers, I disboth sion (LGC) e exp future the action last auditor and the their of week. LGC to catch up. gion Bertie-M ansion She said to al Town officials one audit has sess Jail dur artin Rebeen ion on , howing a ever, say they ted and others submitThe Tuesda work were not are be houses jail y. curr Bertie inmates ently Joe and Huff ties. from Mar view THAD s the D WHIT offic Chowan tin cou Bertie newl ials E y upda Ledge Cou nhav terest r-Adv ted Civil ance in joine shown nty MAR Mar War intin Trails ing ERLA GRATEN, house Regiona Bertiesign NDS at the – Tho THE NETH care county. inmates l Jail Wind LEWIS sor Boat in Theof a sold se taking from to HOGGA Acc the RD / Land Netherlier’s grav Windso look ing. Countyording r/Bertie ing Chamb Bertie for his ands aree er of Vaugha Man to Bertie Comme County. family age rce Rec cials n II, cou r Juan in who ently, Lisa – bothand the nty officitiz is a Unit Kulk separatjail boa en rd livin ed Stat a ely es g in and the
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at bo
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at land
109 S. King St • PO Box 69 • Windsor, NC 27983 Phone: 252-794-3185 • Fax: 252-794-2835 ing
history meets adventure 47
Edgecombe COUNTY
Following the footsteps of their fathers,
Couple finds Home in Pulpits Story by John H. Walker Photos by Calvin Adkins & Contributed
P
astor Nathan Wittman is the son of a Methodist minister
talked about growing up saying they would not follow in those
and is married to a Methodist minister.
footsteps.
He has been in ministry for 12 years and is currently at St. James
UMC in Tarboro. His wife, Laura Wittman, has just transferred from St. Paul’s UMC to The Mills Church, both in Rocky Mount. Like Nathan, Laura is the child of a Methodist minister and the couple joked about following in the footsteps of their respective fathers. “God has a sense of humor,” Laura said with a laugh after both
48
Laura grew up in Lexington and Nathan in Elizabeth City and Nathan said he is what he called “an extreme introvert.” “I didn’t want to commit and then, about my sophomore year (at Duke University), I came around,” he said. Laura said she always knew what she wanted to do. “I had wanted to be a math teacher from the time I was 8,” she said. “I had a scholarship to Meredith, but that fell through. My dad
had a friend at High Point University and asked me, ‘Why not try High Point?’”
worship chairwoman for the conference. As a church, St. James opened its sanctuary
She said that while at High Point University, her paths crossed with Dr. Phillip Norwood, a professor in the theology department.
for service in July, although not all congregants have returned. “We do small groups... no singing,”
“Dr. Norwood let me preach at his church
Nathan said. “The challenge is, how do we
a couple of times,” she said, explaining the
worship as we start to come back in this new
mental transition from teaching math to
environment?”
preaching.
Both agreed that if a person is looking for
The couple likes living in Tarboro, where they reside with their three young sons, but
a church home, now might be a good time to look.
Laura said that having grown up in Lexington,
“The theology and community (of the
the self-proclaimed “Barbecue Capital of the
church) are important,” Laura said. “You should
World,” she was exposed to North Carolina’s
look to find a place that’s comfortable for you.”
western style of barbecue and wasn’t sure
They also cautioned to take care of one
about any other style.
another mentally during the COVID-19
“Then I went to Duke, met a boy named
pandemic.
Nathan and he took me to Parker’s (Barbecue)
“We have a lay group that calls church
and that was it,” she said. “I was sold on the
members every week,” Nathan said. “Some
east.”
are enduring on their own, but it is always
But a decision eventually had to be made, because Laura was in North Carolina’s Western Conference and Nathan in the Eastern Conference.
helpful to check in on people.” They also discussed the changing church, such as Laura’s new charge, The Mills Church. “People are interested in church, but not
“They (conference leaders) told us that one
how it’s always been,” Laura said. “People have
of us was going to have to give (and move),
been hurt by the church. I think the church will
so between Nathan, a couple of pastors and
look different in the future and I think we need
Parker’s, here we are,” she said with a laugh.
to try new ways.”
Laura’s move to The Mills Church — located in the former Marvin UMC on Falls Road — is her second charge since Nathan’s assignment to St. James in July 2015.
As an example, she spoke of house churches and churches at dinner clubs. “People want to be part of the change, but wrestle with issues. In the midst of COVID,
“The church (UMC) tries to keep a pastor (in
we’re forced to change,” Nathan said.
a location) longer than in the past. Of course,
They said that with COVID-initiated
it’s based on the needs of the congregation
changes, there are increasing opportunities for
unless (the pastor) there has an interest in
people to participate.
another plan,” Nathan said.
“Through the season of online (everything),
The couple said the COVID-19 pandemic has
brought
“
The theology and community (of the church) are so important. You should look to find a place that’s comfortable to you.
about
several
challenges,
especially with worshiping.
people have been given a safe space,” Nathan said. “As we go back (to face-to-face), how do we maintain our safe spaces?”
“A survey showed that 66 percent of (all)
Both St. James and The Mills worship at
pastors felt unprepared for online worship,”
10 a.m. on Sundays and are also available
Nathan said. “Some churches are more tech-
online and both Nathan and Laura issued an
savvy than others.”
open invitation to people to visit one or both
He said some churches grasped platforms
churches to see if they connect.
such as Zoom and jumped right in while others languished behind. “And then, there are a lot of communities with no internet,” said Laura, who serves as the
John H. Walker is a Staff Writer for the Rocky Mount Telegram and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
49
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Nash
COUNTY
A desire to be closer to her God,
Leads Her to a Church Home Story by Paige Minshew Photos Contributed
W
ord Tabernacle Church has been
The Word Tabernacle community is “called
Ministry of Arts. This division focuses on
a prominent member of the faith
to preach the gospel; to teach people to live
music, drama, dance and any other forms of
community in Rocky Mount for over a decade.
Christ-like; to practice love; to give priority to
artistic expression to worship God.
The church strives to be “a place of
prayer; to increase in the wisdom and favor of
relevant ministry where relationships are built, needs are met, purpose is fulfilled and God is enjoyed.”
God; to fulfill purpose and to enjoy God.” Audrey Mikell, director of the celebration
Mikell said her desire to walk closer to God and to do more in mission and ministry is what brought her to Word Tabernacle.
division at Word Tabernacle, became a
“I felt this desire to be closer to God and
Since the church’s founding in 2005, the
member and joined the staff in 2005. The
joining this church was what He pressed on
Rev. James Gailliard, has pastored the church.
Celebration Division is Word Tabernacle’s
my heart,” she said. “Developing my walk with
52
Christ has been a life-long journey. I grew up in a church-centered, Bible-believing home and my parents made sure to teach us the way to Christ. “No matter how we are raised, we end up taking our own paths, experiencing bumps in the road and unexpected turns, but eventually end up on our way to Christ,” she added. “The beauty of the journey to faith is
“
No matter how we are raised, we end up taking our own paths, experiencing our own bumps in the road and unexpected turns...
letting go of what we believe is a better way. To be truly happy and fulfilled, we must put all of our faith and trust in God,” Mikell said. While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to struggle with their faith, many have found peace throughout this time. Worship has dramatically changed over the past several months; social distancing has impacted all religious services equally. Experts advise that even though worshippers cannot congregate due to social distancing rules, there are still many ways to lift your spirits during this time and to look to God. Technology has been a blessing during this time because now many ministries can stream services online and reach a broader audience. “Of
course,
the
ministry
looks
different because of the pandemic, but God is still present and is working His way through the community,” Mikell said. “During this season of uncertainty, Word Tabernacle has seen more than 70 people accept Christ as their Lord and Savior.” “We at Word Tabernacle Church have trusted God through prayer, how to support our neighbors locally and abroad and volunteering during seasons of crisis. We serve five generations of worshippers and we do everything we can to ensure God’s purpose is fulfilled,” she added. Paige Minshew is a correspondent for the Rocky Mount Telegram.
53
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Greene County’s
Be con in the Storm
Story By Brenda Monty Photos by Brenda Monty & Contributed The charitable organization, Greene County through many hurricanes, the Great Recession Interfaith Volunteers, takes to heart a statement of 2008 and even deadly tornados in 2011. spoken by Jesus Christ nearly 2,000 years ago.
In 2013, the organization took on the
from the Duke Endowment, Walmart, the Rouse Family Foundation and the Cannon Foundation.
Recorded in the Bible at Matthew 25:35,
However, it was the generous donations
Jesus told his followers God’s favor is based on
of land, money, time, building materials
their hospitable acts toward those in need. Organized in 1999, Interfaith was born out of one of Greene County’s greatest needs in its modern history. Hurricane Floyd struck the east coast of North Carolina. In addition to wind damage to property, trees and power lines, the 17 inches of rainfall resulted in massive flooding that crippled the region. Through the united effort of local churches and
community
volunteers,
Interfaith
was formed to organize home repairs and distribution of food, clothing and other resources.
“For I was hungry and you fed me. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you invited me in ...” – Matthew 25:35
Over the years, the organization has evolved
it happen. In 2015, a debt-free, 4,000-squarefoot facility was constructed just off Kingold Boulevard in Snow Hill, behind Piggly Wiggly grocery store. Greene
County
native
local
businessman Tommy Rouse and the Rouse Family Foundation were was a major financial contributor to the building project, according to Dianne Andrews, Interfaith’s executive director. Piggly Wiggly franchise as well as Greene Local building contractor Albert Holloman
In addition to local fundraisers held to of Holloman Construction donated all his
in Snow Hill, where it served the community benefit the project, funding came from grants services, Andrews added.
58
and
ambitious task to acquire property and Ridge Racquet Club, donated the land.
In the early days, its operations center was construct a new building. based at a former lumber business on N.C. 58
businesses, churches and schools that made
Bobby Taylor, owner of the neighboring
not only into a food pantry, but also a statedesignated disaster recovery center.
and other resources from local individuals,
Donations of food and financial
carport
convenient
for
vehicles
support for the food pantry, which
picking up food boxes during the
now serves 1,000 families a month,
distribution twice a month.
continue to come from the Snow
The facility includes a walk-in
Hill Food Lion grocery store, local
freezer and warehouse with a total-
food drives and generous individuals.
building
Plots in the local community garden
dining room, waiting area, interview
are
room, office and restrooms.
dedicated
to
the
mission.
generator,
kitchen
and
Donations of eggs and produce are
At the 2015 grand opening, N.C.
often provided by local farmers. Five
Senator and former Snow Hill mayor
churches in the community provide
Don Davis noted how such a facility
regular assistance. Ace Hardware,
serves
Rouse’s
natural disasters and beyond.
Restaurant
and
New
Direction Church are also regular contributors.
the
community
through
“When you look at challenging times, when some families are truly
“I saw God today in the face
struggling to the point that they are
of some Greene County people
dealing with food insecurity within
helping others,” said Tanya Elks
their households and especially their
Tripp, a New Direction member who
children, this has been a blessing to
recently volunteered on a food box
this community and families across
distribution day. “They were doing
the county,” Davis said.
what the good Lord asks of them –
An example of this was during
to love and serve others... Greene
Hurricane Matthew in 2016, which
County is a lot of things, but it’s
again brought widespread flooding
mostly just home for real people
and power outages to Greene
trying to make a difference in their
County. The week following the
little corner.”
storm, Interfaith volunteers provided
The food pantry/disaster relief
thousands of hot meals to first-
center includes a drive-through
responders and hundreds of home-
59
delivered meals to residents in
Volunteers was named by the
flooded areas.
Food Bank of Central and Eastern
Like a beacon in the storm,
North Carolina the 2019-2020
Interfaith guided local residents
Greenville Branch Partner of
in need to resources.
Excellence and was recognized
From water and baby diapers
by the state for its outstanding
to roofing tarps and cleaning
disaster
supplies, Interfaith received and
Hurricane Matthew.
response
following
distributed mass quantities of
As for future goals, Greene
supplies flowing in from local,
County Interfaith hopes to build
state and federal sources, such as
a soup kitchen and children’s
the N.C. Food Bank in Greenville
canteen onto its facility.
and other donation centers. During
natural
Whether
disasters,
in
response
to
a natural disaster such as a
Interfaith also coordinates work
hurricane
crews and housing for such
brought about by a recession
groups as such as Baptist Men
or unemployment during the
and others working to repair
COVID-19
storm-damaged homes.
County Interfaith and its nearly
or
economic
pandemic,
crisis
Greene
In addition to the day-to-day
100 community volunteers is
operation of a community food
ready, willing and able to live up
pantry, Interfaith supplies food
to the Bible’s command to love
for summer and weekend feeding
one’s neighbor.
programs organized by local schools and county recreation. It
Brenda Monty is a retired
also participates in toy collections
staff writer for The Standard and
and
The Enterprise and a longtime
distributions
during
the
holidays. Greene
60
contributor County
Interfaith
to
Carolina Living.
Eastern
North
61
Willing Believer Local man follows a vision Story & Photos by Sarah Hodges Stalls Council Smith grew up along a stretch of N.C. 903 in Martin County that is so far north, many people think is actually Halifax County.
doesn’t have to be spread at the pulpit.” “As I moved around going to and fro, the Lord showed me something
Today, he and his wife of more than 50 years, Fannie, live in a home
in a vision that one of these days church doors are going to close, which
he built on the family farm. The couple moved into their home in 2005.
is today,” he said, acknowledging the recent closure and modification of
“He’s an amazing man,” Fannie said with humble pride in her husband. “He’s a giver.”
services due to COVID-19. He initially looked toward the Biblical description of the rapture as
Only a field separates that home from another of Council’s projects
the closure disclosed in his dream, but can’t help but look at recent
- the little church in the cotton field. The small white church was
church closings caused by the pandemic. Time passed and Council
made mostly from products left over from the building of their home.
continued to meditate on the vision, which had been shown to him.
Windows came for the project all the way from Washington, D.C. long before the architect knew what he would do with them. A deacon at James Mount Pilgrim Church near Hobgood, Council proudly acknowledges being a man of faith and seeks opportunities to follow divine direction. “When you live close to the Lord and meditate on his goodness, He can show you great and mighty things,” he explained. “And the word
62
“’Church doors closed due to the rapture’, that’s what’s on the sign,” he said. That sign stands beside the little white church Council built as a result of the message relayed to him. “The Lord spoke to my heart and said build a little church,” he explained. Council was then led to enter the church as a float in the Oak City Christmas parade.
“Two years in a row we took first place,” he said. He would go on to enter the church in the Hamilton parade. Mrs. Fannie was initially surprised, but that did not last long. “When he showed it to me, I looked at it and said ‘I can’t believe you actually built a little church’,” she explained. “Then I thought about it: he built a house so he could build a church,” she added. He got the church home on the trailer and was then faced with a decision. Hauling it back and forth became a lot of work for the now 73-year-old and finding help to move it was not always easy. So he began listening for direction. “Maybe it will stand in the family cemetery for a while,” he wondered. And it did. That cemetery, the resting place of his father’s family, has another special touch provided by craftsman. He constructed headstones honoring those laid to rest who were buried long ago. “This relieved me from all the hassle of trying to put it on a float and trying to dress it,” said Council.
And Smith uses his knowledge and love of the subject matter to answer every question.
But it did not relieve his commitment to spreading the Lord’s word,
This is not Council’s only mission. His garden behind their home is
and he was fine with that part. Having the church and its accompanying
by no means just for the family. He takes great enjoyment in giving and
sign sitting in the field for any and all passers-by to see gave the
helping provide for those who have crossed his path.
message an entirely new and unlimited audience. “This was even better because this is spreading the word,” he smiled.
“It’s just a feeling you can’t explain,” Mrs. Fannie’s husband said. “It’s a wonderful feeling.”
Numerous people have since stopped and inquired about the church and its message on the sign. “What is this all about they’ll ask us, what is the rapture?” he said.
Sarah Hodges Stalls is a Staff Writer for Eastern North Carolina Living and The Enterprise.
63
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67
OUT ABOUT!
&
Out & About is a listing of events happening in and around the 12 counties which make up the coverage region for Eastern North Carolina Living magazine. Those wishing to have an event listed should send it to: Eastern Living, Attn: Out & About, P.O. Box 69, Windsor, NC 27983. Email events to Thadd White at twhite@ncweeklies.com. Nov. 13-Jan. 10
for the holiday season.
Christmas at Chowan program
rings in the holidays with the
Main Streets Lights
They will be displayed on a
is planned for 3:30 p.m. on
Chowan Winds and the beautiful
MURFREESBORO – The Main
decorated
Saturday, Nov. 21 and at the same
voices of the Chowan Singers.
Street Lighting of Murfreesboro
month of Dec.
time on Sunday, Nov. 22.
In addition, Chowan University
will be lit from Nov. 13 through
The opening reception is planned
The event will take place on
President Dr. Kirk Peterson and
Jan. 10, 2021.
for 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14.
the festive McDowell Columns
his wife, Rachel, will provide
Artists of Elements is located at
portico and the surrounding lawn.
narration.
370 Lizard Creek Rd. in Littleton.
The half hour event is free and
Attendees are encouraged to
open to the public.
bring unwrapped gifts that will be
Nov. 14-Dec. 31
tree
through
the
Artists of Elements LITTLETON – Artists at the
Nov. 21 – Nov. 22
The
Artists of Elements are creating
Christmas at Chowan
community
ornaments, decor and small gifts
MURFREESBORO – The annual
celebrates the birth of Christ and
seasonal
event
favorite
is
a
as
it
donated to Smart Start. Nov. 28 Tarboro Holiday Market TARBORO – The Tarboro Holiday Market will be held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28. The market is held at 409 North Main St. in Tarboro. Dec. 5-11 Christmas At Hope WINDSOR – The Historic Hope Foundation will host Christmas at Hope on Dec. 5-11. Tours will begin at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tours are limited to eight people per tour and masks are required. The cost is $6 per person.
68
Hope Plantation in Windsor decorated for Christmas.
For more information or to schedule a tour, call 252-7943140
or
Christmas@
hopeplantation.org. The Historic Hope Plantation is located at 132 Hope House Rd. in Windsor.
Home of Holiday Decor.”
Tickets for the Showcase Home
Also on those dates, The Cupola
Tour and the Virtual Tour are
House will be “The Magic of
online at
Colonial
christmas or call 252-482-7800.
Christmas
and
The
www.ehcnc.org/
Historic District Illumination MURFREESBORO
–
Illumination
of
District
Murfreesboro
of
the
The Historic is
planned for 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec.
Dec. 13 Reverse Christmas Parade TARBORO – A reverse Christmas
Chowan Arts Council will become
Dec. 11-12
Main St. in Tarboro.
“Art within the Lights.”
Dec. 12
parade is planned for 2 p.m.
The second part will be a virtual
Tarboro Holiday Market
Sunday, Dec. 13 in Tarboro.
Christmas Candlelight tour of
TARBORO – The Tarboro Holiday
For more information, visit the
all 18 homes. The tour can be
Market will be held from 10 a.m.
Tarboro/Edgecombe
purchased from the Edenton
until 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12.
of Commerce at https://www.
historical Commission.
The market is held at 409 North
discoveredgecombe.com/
Chamber
11 and Saturday, Dec. 12. For more information, contact the Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce at 252-398-4886. Christmas Candlelight Tour EDENTON – The 39th annual Christmas Candlelight Tour will continue, but with two different parts. The first is planned for 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday Dec. 12. On those dates, the historic, 1790 LittlejohnByrum home will be transformed into “A Christmas Showcase
69
VIEWS FROM OUR
12
urch ptist Ch a B k c e Mill N
First B a
ptist C hurch Rich S q
uare
ptist ing Ba
pr Cool S
70
h Churc Free Union Baptist Church
Sandy Run Baptist Church
Nahalah Presbyterian Church
Photos By: Leslie Beachboard Sarah Hodges Stalls Jim Green and Thadd White
Maple Grove Baptist Church
Sound Side Free Will Baptist Church
71
Be Still...
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” - Psalm 46:10
TRUST T he Rev. R.O. Denton Jr. Pastor, Askewville Assembly of God
On Tuesday, Sept. 27, 1994, the ferry
life jackets.
We simply must trust Him. Trust Him for
MS Estonia departed Tallinn, Estonia for
They were thorough and took their time.
safety. Trust Him for strength. Trust Him for
Stockholm Sweden, carrying 989 passengers
Too much time for a six-year-old whose
comfort and peace. When we do, we can live
and crewmen.
brain can only handle so much important
life without fear.
Around 1:00 in the morning (Sept. 28) she
information. He finally turned to his mother
Along with trust, there must be obedience.
began transmitting calls for help. (Mayday)
who was holding him on her lap, and said,
Even when there is discomfort. Life jackets
Within an hour, authorities lost radar contact.
“Mom, if this boat starts sinking, will you help
were not made for comfort, but for salvation
She went down in the frigid Baltic sea,
me put that thing on?”
in storms.
carrying with her 852 souls. This was the second greatest loss of life in a single ship accident, surpassed only by the Titanic.
My wife responded, “Of course.”
We had to watch and listen for our own
He responded, “Good. I’m going to play.”
safety. We had to trust they were seaworthy
We live in difficult times. We are faced
and put them on in the proper way. The trip
with both natural and man-made disasters.
that night across the Baltic Sea was rough. I
A few weeks later, my wife, myself, and
Health issues, financial crisis or even relational
imagined what it must have been like a few
our three children - ages six, nine, and 12 -
problems often become destructive in our
weeks earlier for those passengers.
were in Stockholm, preparing to travel on the
lives.
same ferry line (Estline) back to Tallinn. The
Yet, God has given, in His Word,
weather was not good, reminiscent of the
instructions on how we can survive when
night the accident happened.
However, as my son trusted his mother and me, I trusted the ferry company to learn from the mistakes of the earlier disaster.
storms rage and we are afraid. He shows us
We must learn to trust God for protection
Before departure, all passengers were
the “rescue boat” and the “life Jackets” in His
and guidance in this stormy climate, so we
summoned to the top deck for a thorough
Word. It is important that we pay attention
will arrive safely at our eternal destination,
briefing on safety. Because of the recent
and know how to use His instructions. It is life
the shores of heaven.
disaster, everyone was attentive, even my six-
and death in cases of emergency.
year-old son. We listened as they explained
Sometimes, as children, we may not
The Rev. R.O. “Buddy” Denton Jr. is Pastor
exit procedures in case of emergency. We
understand. However, He has given us His
of Askewville Assembly of God Church. He can
observed where lifeboats were located. We
Holy Spirit to be a Helper in those times of
be reached via email at rodenton@coastalnet.
watched as they described the usage of the
question.
com.
72
T his is the Day
This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24
DAILY Dr. Gary L. Cordon Pastor, Victory Temple Church of Christ
I thought it would be good to share with you a starting point for daily prayer. I know that many of you already do this. But, here is a refresher or a place to begin to pray
language of honor, decency and love from
student to pray every morning before
you.
going to school.
The greatest love that parents give their children is to love each other.
Pray that God will protect you from danger, keep you from drugs and un-
daily. Nothing complex, just an appetizer
FOR SONS and DAUGHTERS:
marital sex, prepare your minds and bodies
to get you going. I always conclude my
Pray for the will and the mind to be
for success in all of your classes‌ and help
morning prayers with the prayer that Jesus taught His disciples (Matthew 6:9-13).
respectful to your parents.
you make friends that will keep you going
Learn (study, meditate, give it attention)
FOR PARENTS:
to obey them. Observe those who are
Please pray for the courage to be
obedient,
parents. Pray that God will teach you to be fathers and mothers, and not just a man and woman with children.
and
become
students
of
obedience. How will you teach your children
in the right direction rather than making friends that will bring you down. Remember that God loves you so much that He gave His Son Jesus to die in our places for our sins.
obedience if you don’t know how to obey
Accept His love by asking Jesus Christ to
yourself? Pray for the peace of your home.
live in your heart through faith in His Word.
taking leadership in the guiding of their
Pray for God to help your parents
Allow Him to be your LORD and Savior
lives to become what God intended.
to be delivered from the problems and
My absence as a father is the single
dilemmas they struggle with. Pray that
biggest cause of violence and crimes, the
God will give you the maturity and long life
The Rev. Dr. Gary Cordon is Pastor of
degrading/disrespect of women and the
that He promised for those who are godly
Victory Temple Church of God in Christ of
breakdown of the home.
children.
Windsor. He can be reached via email at
Pray as men to raise your children,
Pray as women to have self worth and dignity. Children will learn your unspoken
today.
FOR STUDENTS:
pastor@vtcogic.org or through his website at
I want every child, teenager and college
www.PastorCordon.org.
73
T he Carpenter’s Tools
WORD
T he Rev. Dr. Wallace Phillips Pastor, Carpenter’s Shop International Church
Okay... I made the move!
sure all of them had an ample supply of water
hearts through faith--that you, being rooted
Yes, I went to the store and bought the
to get started on their journey.
and grounded in love,
plants, potting soil, Miracle Gro and all that is
I couldn’t help but notice the tabs on
18 may have strength to comprehend with
needed to get into the groove with porch pots
each one, telling me the number of days in
all the saints what is the breadth and length
and garden spots.
which I could expect delicious fruits from my
and height and depth,
It seems I wasn’t alone in this feat. The
labor. We shall see.
aisles of the greenhouse area were flooded
With the right sun, water, weed removal
with guys and gals making their picks of the
and the like we should be in fine business
popular plants - Gerber Daisies, Geraniums
especially since we juice them with a little
and the like.
Miracle Gro along the way.
19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Paul fully expected the power of the
Next, I made my way to the vegetable
My plants in the garden and in the pots
Holy Spirit to strengthen the believers. And
packs and chose my favorites; red bell pepper,
are grounded well. That makes me think of
because they were “rooted and grounded”
sweet banana pepper, grape tomatoes, Better
the importance of myself being grounded in
they would exceed anyone’s expectation of
Boy’s, and so on.
the Word of God as I walk out this journey as
walking in the fullness of God. They would
a Christian. Paul prayed for this very thing for
grow. They would produce fruit.
Then it was off to the house to get these tender plants into the ground.
the Ephesian believers and for us as well.
My first move was to clear the garden of
Like them, let us make every effort to be grounded in the Word and nurtured
weeds that had made their way up through
Ephesians 3:14-19 ESV
through connection with other believers in
my pine straw covering for the winter. After
14 For this reason I bow my knees before
fellowship. Have a great week, and consider
weed removal I spread a little fertilizer and mixed it all in leaving a nice base of turned black Rocky Hock sand in which to plan these hopefuls.
the Father,
planting your own little garden.
15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his
Dr. Wallace Phillips is Sr. Pastor at Carpenter’s Shop International Church in Ahoskie.
Join
I gently removed them one by one
glory he may grant you to be strengthened
them for worship this Sunday at 10 a.m. at 903
and placed them in my garden and in the
with power through his Spirit in your inner
South Catherine Creek Road in Ahoskie, or join
designated spots and pots. When it was all
being,
them on the web at csicministries.com for a
done I set the water hose to mist and made
74
17 so that Christ may dwell in your
livestream event.
Grace & Truth
FEEL
T he Rev. Emmanuel Webb Hoggard Pastor-Elect, Askewville Assembly of God
A few years ago, I was on a plane heading
I knew this was going to be the end of my
offensive, too intrusive, too hurtful for you
to Arizona to be with my wife’s family over
sleep now. He began telling me how he was
to say, “I feel it.” I feel where you are coming
the New Year’s week.
impressed that a man could give his “works”
from. I hurt with you. I have joy with you. It is
to an invisible god.
the idea of ‘I feel what you feel.’
I was really looking forward to some rest and relaxation. I thought it would start on my
He stated that religion was for people
Jesus did this so many times in Scripture.
four-hour flight. I hoped I would be snoozing
who were too weak to live their own lives the
He would talk to sinners and, even worse, tax
all the way there.
way they want.
collectors and empathize with their stories,
Little did I realize that I would be sitting
He slandered me, the history of the
beside someone that would change those
church, the beliefs of creation, the virgin
Today, perhaps the best thing I can tell
plans.
birth, and even the resurrection. He called
you reading this is no matter what is deeply
Mary, the mother of Jesus, a liar.
put in your heart that seems to always
He promptly told me his name and that he was traveling from Afghanistan to home in Phoenix. I could immediately feel that I was not going to get my much-desired rest.
With each comment I listened. I calmly rebutted. There were things he said of the church’s
I told him where I was going and that I
failures that I agreed with and I apologized
was traveling without my wife because I had
on behalf of all Christians, as if I could do
to work the day before (Sunday), hoping to
that. His skepticism was met with patience
shroud the “I’m a pastor, an ambassador of
and, sometimes, with acquiescence.
the Most High God, may I pray for you today, child” conversation. It didn’t work. He asked what line of work I was in..... “I’m a pastor,” I said quietly. He responded with such glee, “Really? I’m a devout Atheist.”
He searched for anger in me, and all I felt was compassion.
skepticism, blindness, and pains.
breed anger, contempt, embarrassment or bondage, there is someone that will not judge you. He loves you. He feels what you do. Is there someone near you who just needs to hear from you, “I feel you?” By the way, that man ran me down after our flight and introduced me to his wife: “This is Pastor Webb, my new friend.”
The Spanish equivalent for our English phrase “I’m sorry” is “Lo Siento” which means literally “I feel it.” I think so often people just need to know that nothing they could say could be too
Pastor Emanuel Webb Hoggard is PastorElect of Askewville Assembly of God Church. He can be reached via email at pastorwebb@ hotmail.com.
75
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ALL IN A
Visit
Day’s Trip
GOLDSBORO
78
After a long year filled with uncertainty from a global pandemic, I have been looking for options to still socially distance while experiencing the best of North Carolina. Goldsboro is just the place in eastern North Carolina, and offers a great experience! Thanks to the unique mix of Southern charm and tranquil outdoor spaces, there are a lot of things to do in Goldsboro -some of which are: spending time in their thriving downtown scene, trying an upcoming craft beer and eating delicious BBQ. Goldsboro is the perfect spot for a day trip from the counties in the Eastern Living community and is also a great spot for an overnight trip, too! Check out all the great things to do in Goldsboro below including an overnight itinerary. Grab a coffee and a pastry at Labrar Coffee Labrar Coffee is a quaint, intimate coffee shop right in downtown Goldsboro. I loved their drip coffee and their kale danish. I loved the artwork and the outdoor seating.
Hike the Cliffs of the Neuse Take a quick, relatively flat hike around the Cliffs of the Neuse. It’s a little under three miles with well-maintained trails, beautiful views and history incorporated into the hike. The state park also has a campground with cabins for rent, a swimming lake and a boat house where you can rent standup paddle boards and pedal boats.
Lunch at Jay’s Sushi and Burger Bar This Asian-American fusion restaurant is located right downtown. I highly recommend the Bulgogi fries, trying one of their sushi rolls and definitely their burger. It was great to go with friends and sample a little bit of everything because the menu is really eclectic and delicious. It’s a Goldsboro staple!
Cliffs of the Neuse
Jay’s Sushi and Burger Bar
79
ALL IN A
Day’s Trip
Downtown Goldsboro
Explore Downtown Goldsboro
Brews and Cues Tour
Enjoy Breakfast at Kathy’s Kitchen
Downtown Goldsboro is a thriving scene with boutiques,
Looking for a good, home-style country breakfast? Definitely
restaurants, bottle shops and lots of murals! I spent the afternoon
stop at Kathy’s Kitchen. This type of restaurant is one of my favorite
wandering around downtown, popping in and out of boutiques, and
aspects of small towns in North Carolina, and this one is no exception.
my favorite was Carolina Pine Country Store. I picked up a few gifts for
Their breakfast menu is extensive and delicious.
the upcoming holiday season, plus they sell Annie Sloan chalk paint. The murals are quite interesting.
Saturday Morning Yoga at Brewmasters
Find a Local Event.
at BrewMasters is a great option. Stay for a pint after class. There is
Flow yoga is a great way to start a weekend, and this free class While I was in town (pre-COVID), I attended WISE: Women
plenty of free parking around downtown, so make a day of it.
Inspiring Success and Empowerment, a fireside chat with inspiring women leaders in North Carolina. Our panel guests were N.C. Chief
Brews and Cues Tour
Justice Cheri Beasley, WRAL morning anchor Renee Chou, North
This tour of Goldsboro and Wayne County is a great way to eat and
Carolina author Kristy Woodson Harvey and chef Vivian Howard.
drink your way through the area. Start your tour at Brew Works and
Paramount Theatre often has events happening, or just stroll
learn more about the taproom and bottle shop.
downtown and see what’s going on at various businesses.
Check In for an Overnight Stay I stayed at the Hampton Inn and was greeted with hot coffee, a warm towel and friendly service. My room was cozy, with soft bed linens and a comfy bed, which really made for a good night’s sleep to gear up for the next day.
80
Grab lunch at Adams Downtown BBQ A new restaurant in the downtown scene. Adams BBQ has a roadside stand out on Highway 70, and recently opened a second location in downtown.
Microbrewery in Mt. Olive
Adam’s Downtown BBQ
R&R Brewing, which features a lager called Pickletown beer after the famous Mt. Olive Pickle Company, located right at the end of the street from R&R. Don’t let the exterior fool you; R&R is tastefully decorated with personalized touches throughout. Plus, Max the Saint Bernard is there to greet you, which really was one of my favorite parts of the trip.
McCall’s BBQ and Seafood A Goldsboro institution for the last 30 years. McCall’s has some of the best eastern North Carolina-style BBQ and their buffet has something for everyone. I find it also worth noting that while I am not a fan of bananas, I make an exception for McCall’s banana pudding. I hope you enjoy a socially distant day or overnight trip to Goldsboro soon! Stay safe, be well and wear a mask! Meghan Grant is the author of the blog, “I’m Fixing’ To…” and a regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living.
R&R Brewing
McCall’s BBQ and Seafood
81
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83
Grandma’s
Kitchen Sylvia Hughes with her grandmother, Bertie Dameron.
Who doesn’t enjoy a good potluck supper at church?
family gatherings. While I want to share a few recipes with
The food is wonderful. You get so many
you, I also want to share a little humor about
different dishes, it is hard to get a little
church meals. These were reported from
sample of each one on your plate - and it is
church bulletins:
oh, so good. Church ladies are the best cooks. Many of their recipes are the ones they learned from their mothers and grandmothers. The old ways are still hard to beat. Then you get to the dessert table and you don’t even know where to start with that little dessert plate because the table is loaded down and you want to try it all. But the food is only half of the reason potlucks are great. There is the fellowship with your church family. Everyone is smiling and laughter can be heard all over the building. This is the reason they are called Fellowship Halls. I read an article that said potlucks suppers at the church are dying out. I don’t know
* Attend and you will hear an excellent speaker and heave a healthy lunch. * Potluck supper Sunday at 5 pm - prayer and medication to follow. * A cookbook is being compiled by the ladies of the church. Please submit your favorite recipe, also a short antidote for it. * The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility. * A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow. * Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 am. All ladies are invited to lunch in the fellowship hall after the B.S. is done.
where the author was doing his research ,but
* Ushers will eat latecomers.
it definitely couldn’t have been in the South.
Had enough humor? Let’s get to the
The thing we are known best for is food and
recipes.
Sylvia Hughes is a retired newspaper editor and columnist residing in Windsor. In addition to three sons, she has a gaggle of grandchildren, many of whom love cooking with her just as she did with her mother and grandmother.
84
Old Fashioned Chicken Pie cepan. Blend water and flour in a sau use until 1- 3 pound chicken, can ring stir lly, Add stock gradua r chicken rotisserie chicken or leftove thick. Stir in cream. and or turkey Season to taste with salt r flou ¼ cup pepper. ¼ cup water st and Arrange chicken in one cru 2 cups chicken stock n. cke pour the sauce over the chi l. Cut ¼ cup light cream Place crust on top and sea per pep Salt, dle. three - two inch slits in mid 2 deep dish pie crusts degrees. 450 at s Bake 15-20 minute chicken, If cooking your own y, you eas so Note: This recipe is debone. and ore bef day the k coo rch meal. could make several for a chu . rate Refrige Next day, shred chicken.
Mrs. Norman’s Congealed Cranberry Salad 1 16 oz. Can of whole cranberries 1 large or two small orange jello 1 small can crushed pineapple, undrained 14-oz. Ginger ale ¾ cup each of chopped celery and nuts. Dressing: 1 cup sour cream 1/3 cup mayonnaise 3 to 4 tablespoons confectioners sugar Melt cranberry saucepan Add jello and dissolve. Add pineapple, then ginger ale
slowly. Place in mold and refrigerate Let it begin to congeal, then add celery and nuts. Stir all dressing ingredients together. Notes: This dressing is good for all fruit salads or as a dip This could change the minds of those who don’t like cranberry sauce. If you use a mold with hole in center, you can put dressing in center hole
Carrot Cake en out This recipe is old and has fall of use. Time to revive it. 1st mixture 2 cups sugar 1 ½ cups oil 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla e Beat well and add 2nd mixtur 2nd mixture
2 cups self-rising flour 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda 2 teaspoons cinnamon Add to 1st mixture Fold in 3 cups grated carrots floured Bake in well greased and pan. Can use baking spray. rees Bake 30 minutes at 350 deg Frosting
85
Making Music For The Lord Story by Sarah DaviS PhotoS by hugh DaviS
“So you’re still playing your music?” she asked. He replied, “Yes, but now I’m playing for the Lord.”
in 1962, his family moved to Murfreesboro,
1966, in only nineteen months, he was
and he entered C.S. Brown School in Winton
Sergeant Gaines.
where he met Band Director Frank Cason.
Leaving the military in September 1969,
Noting that Cason allowed him to audition
he returned to Norfolk General Hospital
That question from Margaret Hampton
to play in the band, he describes Cason
where he was approached by an FBI agent
of Murfreesboro and answer from Larry
as setting him on the right path, “reaching
from the Norfolk office who was interested
Gaines of Washington, D.C., at a Sunday
down and picking me up.” Learning to play
in recruiting a group of former military
service at Phillipi Baptist Church during the
practically every instrument in the band,
persons for service to the Bureau.
weekend of a C.S. Brown School reunion
Gaines was hooked on music and wanted to
For him to enter such service required a
in 2000 was the beginning of Gaines’
pursue higher education in the field. Cason
background check, meaning that someone
permanent return to Murfreesboro - after
arranged for an audition at Elizabeth City
came to Murfreesboro to investigate Gaines’
leaving more than four decades earlier.
State (now University), which Gaines passed
background, seeing the place he lived, talking
- but Gaines could not afford college at that
to friends, neighbors and acquaintances.
In those 40-plus years, the Hertford County
native
–
and
Ahoskie
and
time.
Gaines related that, knowing of the
Murfreesboro resident – who is a C.S. Brown
Instead, upon graduating from C.S.
process, he was concerned; his house
School graduate, would see the world, serve
Brown in 1966, he entered the military, but
hadn’t been the best in the neighborhood; it
with the United States Army, the F.B.I., the
first, he left Murfreesboro the day following
lacked amenities he considered luxuries but
D.C. Capitol Police and D.C. Department of
his high school graduation for a job in the
others might consider necessities; he didn’t
Corrections, as well as drive for Continental
kitchen at Norfolk General Hospital. His
necessarily want to be known for what he
Trailways.
years in the U.S. Army (1966-1969) took him
had known - or, more specifically - what he hadn’t known.
be
from North Carolina (Ft. Bragg), northeast to
photographed with President Bill Clinton
Extraordinary
enough
to
New Jersey (Ft. Dix), back south to Virginia
Upon completion of the investigation, he
and Queen Elizabeth II, he is still ordinary
(Ft. Lee) and northwest to Wasington (Ft.
was told he had no cause for concern, that
enough to live in Murfreesboro.
Lewis), as well as out of the U.S.A. He even
after ample investigation, the conclusion
served in Turkey, based only two hundred
was that if a person from his background
miles from Russia.
had been able to complete high school and
Larry Gaines spent his early years in Ahoskie and attended R.L. Vann School under the principalship of H.D. Cooper. Then,
86
Enlistment as a private in September
come as far as he had, he was welcome in
the FBI where he then served as
fingerprint
technician
in
Washington, D.C.
went back to D.C. Then, a few days later, she received a phone call from him.
Other work in D.C. included
Her immediate reaction was
stints with the D.C. Capitol
“How did you get my number?”
Police and D.C. Department of
He informed her that, being a
Corrections as well as serving
policeman, he could certainly
as a driver for Continental
track down a telephone number.
Trailways, fulfilling a long held
There ensued a long-distance
dream.
relationship
On
9/11/2001,
his
that
culminated
Corrections unit, in which he
in their July 17, 2010, wedding
was the only African-American,
that
was about five miles from the
Murfreesboro to her family
Pentagon, but it was close
home, not far from where he
enough for their building to
lived as a high school student.
shake when the Pentagon was struck.
brought
him
back
to
Back in Murfreesboro, he has worked as a Bailiff for the
In 2000, he was visiting in
Sheriff’s Department where he
the area to attend a C.S. Brown
has been lauded by attorneys
Reunion; that Sunday morning,
and judges alike for his manner
he was asked to provide special
of calling court to order. He has
music for the service at Phillipi
also continued with his music;
Church in Cofield. He played a
able to play many instruments,
trumpet solo, “It is Well With
he always wanted to add the
My Soul.” Classmate Margaret
keyboard to that list and is now
Hampton,
mastering it.
remembering
his
music from high school days
Through his church, First
approached him about it. He
Baptist of Murfreesboro, where
responded. They talked. She
he serves as a Deacon, he
went home in Murfreesboro. He
began
working
with
youth,
87
creating the “Instruments of
of Washington, D.C. Singing
Praise,” a group of students to
during Black History Month,
make music for the Lord. He
the group provided music in
continues mentoring HCPS
the different churches in the
students in music and life. In
different towns and different
jam sessions at King’s Coffee,
states.
he has assisted musicians,
He is also part of the Men’s
including Chowan University
Ministry
students
and
and
Motorcycle
impressed
Ministry, both groups active
patrons with the depth and
in providing for needs in the
breadth of his musical ability.
community.
When living in Washington,
As
part
of
his
music
he sang with a Men’s Chorus,
ministry, he has played “Taps”
and he brought that concept
on many occasions. While
to Hertford County, organizing
in Washington, he always
a mass choir that included
participated in ceremonies on
participants from First Baptist,
Police Memorial Day, May 15.
New
There, he and a partner played
to play the haunting notes
come back to Murfreesboro,
“Echo Taps.”
of “Taps” at the memorial at
and every day he gives back to
the
a community where his journey
Haven
and
Jordan
Grove, all of Murfreesboro, New Bethany of Harrellsville,
But,
nowhere
has
Murfreesboro
Municipal
Pleasant Plains of Ahoskie,
he
more
Building. Having played during
First Baptist of Severn, as well
impressive than Memorial Day
so many official ceremonies, he
as First Baptist of Franklin,
2020 when, with ceremonies
said he couldn’t let the day pass
Virginia, Mt. Olive Baptist
to honor the fallen postponed
without playing it.
probably
been
Church of Arlington, Virginia
or cancelled, he joined with
He has travelled far in every
and Mt. Carmel Baptist Church
others throughout the country
sense of the word, but he has
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began. Sarah Davis is a retired librarian and regular contributor to Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie Ledger-Advance.
County: Halifax Marker ID: E-113 Original Date Cast: 2006
MARKER TEXT
TILLERY RESETTLEMENT Est. 1935; New Deal farm project. 350 black families from N.C., S.C., Fla., Ark., Va. purchased homesteads. Restored house 1 mi. E.
MARK IT! Title To Begin Here
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s part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, the Federal Emergency Relief Administration—and beginning in 1935 the Resettlement Administration
— helped to establish homestead communities that encouraged landownership and, in many cases, fostered agricultural skills. In North Carolina, the resettlement projects were rural farming homesteads. Planning for the communities was carried out by the North Carolina Rehabilitation Corporation with approval by the Emergency Relief Administration. Site surveys of the subsistence homesteads were conducted by the state agricultural colleges and appraisals were made by the Federal Land Bank. Prospective colonists or other relief workers completed the construction. Settlers were selected by the Resettlement Administration. The idea behind the homesteads was that the settlers would rehabilitate the land and learn valuable agricultural and subsistence skills. Once the farm was in working order, the homesteader could purchase the land through the federal government. The two other resettlement communities in North Carolina were Penderlea (white) and Pembroke Farms (Indian). There were 113 resettlement projects in the United States, thirteen of which offered homesteads to blacks. North Carolina hosted one of the country’s largest ventures in rural Halifax County. The overall project, launched in 1935, was named Roanoke Farms, with the white settlers assigned to a section called Roanoke Farms, and African Americans to a section called Tillery Farms. Roanoke Farms was the only resettlement project established by the Federal Emergency
N.C. 561 and N.C. 481 at Tillery
Relief Administration that held sections for both races. At its peak, Roanoke Farms (including Tillery) consisted of 294 forty-acre farms, each costing about $7,454. Tillery Farms
REFERENCES
provided a school, a community center, and a cooperative
References: Paul Conkin, Tomorrow a New World: The New Deal
store. Homesteaders came from North Carolina, Virginia,
Community Program (1959)
South Carolina, Florida, and Arkansas. The community spirit
Concerned Citizens of Tillery, “Remembering Tillery . . .”: A New Deal
that was encouraged by the resettlement program continues
Resettlement (1997)
today. A present-day resident states that Tillery, about 98
Concerned Citizens of Tillery website: http://www.cct78.org/ Local History (1996)
percent black, is progressive, filled with citizens interested in education and politics.
89
PARTING SHOTS Thadd White at the Cashie River in Windsor, Bertie County.
Any of you who have listened to comedian Steve Harvey talk about his upbringing in church will know what I mean when I say we went to church all the time. As the comedian said, we didn’t just go to Sunday service and Wednesday service. We went to every service. My mother, who most of you probably know as the author of Grandma’s Kitchen, took us to Ebenezer Assembly of God (between Windsor and Aulander) every time the door was open. We were there Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday night, prayer meeting, revival meeting, kids meeting, women’s meeting – you name it, we’ve been to it. I can’t speak for my brother, Scott, but I don’t remember having any problems with it. It was just what we did. In my younger days, I remember being so excited when I went upstairs to Sunday School and when I made the transition to the
As you thumb through these pages you will meet some who are in ministry full-time and others who have given of themselves as volunteers, and you will hear their stories of believing in God and serving a higher calling. 90
youth class, you couldn’t tell me anything. Our Pastor was the late Rev. Raymond Hoggard Sr. for most of that time, but I often say I had two pastors growing up – Preacher Raymond as most people called him – and the Rev. R.O. Denton Sr., who pastored my grandmother’s church at Askewville. That’s because if I wasn’t at church with mom, I was likely at church with my grandma, Vivian. I’d be remiss if I omitted my yearly trips to the Assemblies of God camp on Cooper Hill Road in Windsor. There I heard some of my all-time favorite preachers including the Rev. Darrell McClaren and the late B.H. Clendennen. In my adulthood I have also been blessed with wonderful pastors who have made my life better – men such as the late Rev. Jack Byrd, Dr. Tommy Kiker, the Rev. Wallace Phillips, the Rev. R.O. “Buddy” Denton Jr. and Pastor Jay Rivenbark. All of them have guided me in my spiritual walk. My foundations were the beginning of my lifelong faith in God, and belief in the divine. My story probably isn’t unlike many of you in the 12 counties covered by Eastern North Carolina Living. That’s why we wanted to introduce you to some men and women
of faith in our region and to let you read their stories of faith, triumph and, at times, tragedy. As you thumb through these pages you will meet some who are in ministry full-time and others who have given of themselves as volunteers, and you will hear their stories of believing in God and serving a higher calling. I won’t take you through each story this time as I do others because I think you need to learn them for yourself as you read. I think the investment of time will be well worth it. Also, as I close my second year as Editor of this publication I love so dearly, I want to thank each of you for staying with us through transition and learning. We hope you’re glad you did. We’ll be back in January when we feature stories about all things music. Until next time, remember… all who wander are not lost. Continue joining us as we wander through Beaufort, Bertie, Edgecombe, Gates, Halifax, Hertford, Hyde, Martin, Nash, Northampton, Tyrrell and Washington counties. Thadd White is Editor of Eastern North Carolina Living and the Bertie LedgerAdvance.
VISIT US AT YOUR LOCAL BRANCH AHOSKIE
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AURORA
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298 N. FIFTH ST.
202 S. CROATAN HWY.
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AYDEN
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236 3RD ST.
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111 N. MAIN ST.
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1875 WEST CITY DR.
336 E. MAIN ST.
FARMVILLE
NASHVILLE
4217 E. CHURCH ST.
209 S. BARNES ST.
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PINETOPS
203 MAIN ST.
102 E. HAMLET ST.
GREENVILLE
PLYMOUTH
2310 S. CHARLES BLVD. 2275 STANTONSBURG RD.
612 WASHINGTON ST.
810 S. MAIN ST.
SHARPSBURG 3938 S. HATHAWAY BLVD.
TARBORO 422 MAIN ST.
WINDSOR 101 N. KING ST.
WINTERVILLE 4259 WINTERVILLE PKWY.
www.southernbank.com 91
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