Living in the Bible Belt

I just returned from a meeting put on for pastors by the Partnership for a Drug-Free Community. Now, you would expect there to be some "religious talk" going on at the meeting - and there was. But, only in the Bible Belt would the Madison County Sheriff (Blake Dorning) open the meeting with prayer and in his introductory remarks talk about the need for people to know Jesus Christ as one of the means of dealing with drug problems in the area. Candy Stephenson, a local parent who lost her son to an accidental overdose, shared her story and faith with a special emphasis on her personal knowledge that there is no guarantee that this won't happen in the church family. The guest speaker was Scott Hassell, Chief of Corrections, Etowah County (Gadsden, AL). I wasn't sure what to expect from Scott (probably something rather boring), but he talked about the program going on within the Etowah County jail that is having a great impact on helping people with drug dependency. He structured his remarks around the first three questions asked in Genesis. He preached a sermon much better than most pastors I know! Even though he can't use such religious language in his normal, secular job, he could in this environment. He was articulate, passionate, and without a doubt, a man of faith.

By the way, if you are in a church (pastor, lay leader, or just concerned member), get in touch with the Partnership for a Drug-Free community (256-539-7339). They have programs available that can make a significant impact in your church family - and they are FREE!!

Throw in a couple of preacher's comments and a good, free lunch and you have a gathering that just wouldn't happen in other parts of the country. I am proud to be living in the Bible Belt.