Ms. Marsha's Story
One of my earliest memories is walking to church as a toddler in Miami. The song “I like to go to church” would have described me growing up. My parents moved to Jacksonville when I was 3 years old and we joined Avondale Baptist Church where I attended until after I graduated High School. I was baptized at 9 years old yet, later realized that I had not asked Jesus into my heart.
After I graduated High School, I got married and had two children. When my daughter was 18 months old my family joined First Baptist Jacksonville. My son was born the same year we joined there. The Lord surrounded me with Christians that lived what they believed – walked the walk not just talked the talk. The year after my son was born, I realized that although I had been “baptized” and although I “believed” what the Bible taught, I had not believed in God for salvation. I asked Jesus into my heart August 31st, 1980 and was baptized the following Sunday. My children were raised at First Baptist Jacksonville and I was a member there for 30 years. I home schooled both children until they completed 10th grade, then they attended private schools. While at FBC Jax, I was very involved with the various ministries and programs. I have worked with preschoolers, children and youth at church since I was 12 years old. It is so exciting when I see the children I worked with over the years, now as adults with children of their own, bringing their families to church. And even more exciting is the privilege of teaching and working with their children.
The Lord has richly blessed me over the years.Twelve years ago I moved to Orange Park. The Lord brought me to First Baptist Orange Park about 4 years ago at the invitation of several friends. It is so much closer to my home and I can be more involved in the weekly activities. I am involved in the Adult Choir and Single’s Ministry. Both of my children are married and live in Jacksonville with their families. The Lord has given me 10 grandchildren. This is my first year working with 3 year olds. I am looking forward to all that God has for us to learn this year!
Ms. Marsha