From the Elder's Pen “TRIBUTE” Past/Future Articles

Paul in his Roman Epistle tells us to give “honor to whom honor is due.” (Rom. 13:7).  There was a woman who walked among us deserving of honor for her work in the Lord.  She was truly a Christian Lady and came to be known to us as Ms. Irene.

The Hall family was a part of the East End congregation at the onset of being organized.  Ms. Irene, her husband Willie, son Thomas, and daughter Virginia met with the small group at the old fair grounds on Red Rd. (now home of Magnetek) to support the spread of the gospel.  Early on her husband became a Deacon in the church.  As Ms. Irene taught Bible classes for children, preparing meals for shut-ins, helping in whatever capacity she could, she always had a smile.  She was there lifting us up, admonishing us, making telephone calls, writing notes to cheer, a pat on the shoulder, telling us when we needed to see about someone, doing all within her power to make us stronger in the faith.

As the years swiftly passed Ms. Irene in her quiet way became more of a “tower of strength” for us to lean on.  She was a bureau of information as she had kept records, pictures, and a small history of the East End congregation.  If we needed advice, had a problem, wanted encouragement, had a question, more than likely she had the answer.

She not only showed us how to live, but she showed us how to face grief as in her declining years one of her greatest test of faith came.  Her only son, Thomas Hall, died unexpectedly while on a trip in Florida.  A few years later she gave up her beloved companion Willie.  Through her tears she was able to tilt her head ever so slightly and have that same sweet smile that warmed all our hearts.  It seemed the “trying of her faith” made her even stronger as she gave herself more and more to the Lord’s work and assisting others.

One hears people say they need to be “fulfilled/”  Ms. Irene’s life was so filled she “drank from the saucer.”  She never traveled far, nor had her name in neon lights, but she left a legacy of faith we would all do well to emulate.  Yes, I believe Ms. Irene, as Paul, could truly have said, “Be ye followers of me as I also am of Christ.”  (I Cor. 11:1).

HOW WILL WE BE REMEMBERED??

Walter Bishop, Elder