Merry Christmas!
MCL’s 2025 Christian Leaders of the Year
Their mentors, their callings, and why the little things matter
● Navigating grief with our kids this Christmas
● Lily Pad Cafe offers a leap up
THERE’S MORE TO C.
Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Mississippi Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Mississippi Christian Living staff to ensure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed.
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Chris and Stacy Bates recently welcomed a new puppy — and learned a lesson on being present.
Our 2025 Christian Leaders of the Year share who has influenced them, plus encouragement for the next generation’s leaders. See page 20.
JOE ELLIS
Oh My Word, big news!
You might not know this, but MCL has two podcasts: One is called “A Closer Walk,” which usually consists of my audio interviews with our cover subjects. (This month, you can hear my full interview with our Christian Leaders of the Year. I had to cut some great stuf for print, so check it out!)
The other MCL podcast is “Oh My Word with Katie,” which I started in May 2024. The name came to me pretty quickly, since I say “Oh my word” a lot — usually as in, “Oh my word, why are all these other drivers on the road?!” — and I decided to put my pet phrase to better use. On “Oh My Word with Katie,” I’ve been interviewing believers about their stories — the good, the bad, and the “oh my word.”
Some “Oh My Word” guests have written books. To spread the word about one such author episode this summer, I posted the link in a few writers’ groups that I’m part of on Facebook.
That’s when it hit me: I sure do have a lot of natural connections with writers … And the name “Oh My Word with Katie” sure would lend itself to talking about words with the believers who write them, not to mention the Word of God who shows up in their stories …
So, starting New Year’s Day 2026, “Oh My Word with Katie” will focus on interviewing Christian writers, providing amazing book recommendations, and marveling at all the ways God shows up in words and stories.
I’ve already recorded five episodes, covering everything from biblical fiction to a World War II novel and a contemporary hockey romance. I’ll be revealing more in a special Season 5 “trailer” episode of the podcast, releasing December 11.
The mission of “Oh My Word,” just like MCL as a whole, is still to point people to Christ and make their lives better, by “proclaiming the excellencies of He who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). God is the one true Creator and storyteller, and anything
we write, create, or enjoy would not exist without His lavish grace.
To find the podcast, search for “Oh My Word with Katie” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music. Then please hit the “Follow” button! This makes the show more visible to others who might like it. If you’re new to podcasts and you have an iPhone, you can access Apple Podcasts via the purple Podcasts app on your screen. (I’m not trying to be patronizing. My small business consultant always asks about my “blog,” despite my telling him repeatedly that it’s a podcast. I had to show him where that purple app was.)
If you’re excited about the show and want to do more to help it succeed, email me at katie@mschristianliving.com and put the words “podcast launch” in the subject line. I’ll add you to my email list and provide ideas and instructions for sharing the show with others.
Meanwhile, I hope you’ll enjoy all the ways God shows up in the words and stories of MCL!
Must-reads in this issue:
● Our cover interview with MCL’s 2025 Christian Leaders of the Year (page 20)
● How to handle grief with your kids this Christmas (page 8)
● The Lily Pad gives young people with disabilities a leap up (page 28)
This month on ‘Oh My Word with Katie’:
● Author Scarlet Hiltibidal on being ‘Hopeful-ish’ (Dec. 4). PS, hear Scarlet speak live at Broadmoor’s Women’s Christmas Gathering on Dec. 9! www.broadmoor.org/gathering
● Season 5 trailer (Dec. 11)
● Season 4 fave: Carolyn Weber, author of ‘Surprised By Oxford’ (Dec. 18) Y
Katie Ginn katie@mschristianliving.com
Navigating grief with our kids this Christmas
Excitement is brewing for the season as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We are still human, however, and if we’ve recently sufered loss, the holiday “holly jollies” can seem dull.
I saw this in action with my own kids this year. As we pulled the Christmas decor out from the attic, my daughter opened a box. Right on top was Nana’s stocking.
“Oh, look!” my 8-year-old said. “Wait … what do we do with Nana’s stocking?”
Nana, my grandmother, died the week before Christmas last year. She and I had been Christmas shopping. She wrapped gifts for all of her great-grandkids. Even though she was 88 years young and sufered from Parkinson’s disease, she was doing well; her sudden stroke and death took us by surprise.
This is the first time I’ve seen my kids really express grief. It has taught me a lot about how to navigate my own grief journey and how to teach them how to do the same.
Grief doesn’t take GOD by surprise
When Lazarus died, Jesus wept. Now, Jesus is God. Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus. Why, then, did He cry? Since Christ took on our humanity and emotions to fully walk this life we live, I believe His tears were grief and empathy. He felt the weight of loss and felt for those who were grieving.
“ Nana, my grandmother, died the week before Christmas last year. She and I had been Christmas shopping. She wrapped gifts for all of her great-grandkids. Even though she was 88 years young and suffered from Parkinson’s disease, she was doing well; her sudden stroke and death took us by surprise.”
God promises in Psalm 34:18 (NIV), “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in Spirit.”
I remind myself there is a time for mourning (Eccl. 3:4). I can appreciate that the grief I feel over Nana’s loss is indicative of a life full of love we shared, and I can remind my children of the same.
How we’re handling grief this Christmas season
It’s OK to honor your loved ones and their physical absence during the holidays. No, we didn’t hang Nana’s stocking. But we
did put out her old ceramic Nativity scene. We also bought some ornaments that look like Hershey’s (her favorite chocolate) and cardinals (her favorite bird). We’ve put out lots of decorations featuring the word “joy,” which was her name. In this special way, we can still embrace the JOY she brought to us and the joy of this season.
If you find yourself being hit by the waves of grief this holiday season, reach out to someone in the church. We’re encouraged in 1 Thessalonians to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thess. 5:11). Proverbs 17:17 tells us, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Anyone who has experienced loss has walked the path you’re on, and perhaps you’ll bring a moment of purpose to their own grief by asking for a moment to be listened to and understood. Encourage your children to talk through their grief too. Pray with them and model to them in age-appropriate ways how you express grief — and always point them to the great Comforter.
May God bless you in this Christmas season. Y
Courtney and her husband, Jeremy, live in Brandon and are members at Park Place Baptist Church in Pearl. They have a daughter, Taylor, and a son, Jacob. Courtney is a full-time homemaker and can be reached at courtneyingle89@gmail.com.
From left: Jeremy Ingle, Nana, Courtney holding Jacob Ingle, and Taylor Ingle in front.
Profound newness
OUTSIDE
Darby came home to us just a few months ago. There is nothing like the experience and joy that go along with a new 10week-old puppy. Besides the playfulness and fun, there is also a fascination with newness. During the first few weeks, much of our time was spent in the backyard with her discovering, learning, and enjoying. She couldn’t explore enough.
Learning everything about her was new for us also, and for her, every little thing in the world and in her new surroundings was amazing. The distractions of the big world went away for us during backyard time, and we got to just play and watch intently. Her energy was endless, as were our laughs, when she would bark ferociously while wrestling with a stick or chew toy. Every rock, pinecone, and bug was important and held curiosity, beauty, and simplicity.
IN
There is a great lesson from that backyard time that is contrary to how we as people view the complexities of life and our surroundings. Regardless of our roles, our lives are busy and intricate. With the best of intentions, each of us is preoccupied with tasks, needs, and daily functioning in our modern world. The screen in our hand keeps our minds whirling even when we are not in a meeting, picking up dinner, or planning the next event.
Adding to the always-on level of activity, the holidays bring more involvement and circumstance. We feel added responsibilities. Whether it is finding the right presents or figuring out how to deal with family dynamics, there always seems to be more. Yes, we know the real reason for the season, but that does not keep the distractedness away. There is much that takes our time and bandwidth.
MESSAGE
Similar to Darby’s child-like perspective, there is simplicity and wonderment for all of us in the most profound of stories in this season. Jesus was born to simple people in a simple, humble place. God freely gave the ultimate joy to us and did so in meager and unpretentious surroundings with deep significance. For those who witnessed the manger, and for all of us since, it is the greatest of simple messages.
Not only was there no guest room available, but there was no royal announcement or parade. Shepherds were the audience. We can follow their lead from Luke 2:17, which says, “they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” It was an amazing newness that only God could have created, and our busy minds can forget to see it that way.
As one of our 3-year-old grandsons reminds us often about our playtime with him, we should have a singular focus, right here, right now. We can choose to be motivated by the simple yet profound message of Christ’s birth. Joy is in the seemingly small things — and in receiving the gift we are given, we can have the new perspective of a child, which is what each of us actually is … a child of God. Y
Chris and Stacy Bates live in Madison and have adult children and three grandboys. Chris is CEO of Agora Eversole, a full-service marketing agency in Jackson, and can be reached at Chris@AgoraEversole.com.
A rare moment of stillness with Darby the puppy.
How a camp counselor taught me to pursue Jesus
“Jesus said, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment.’” – Matthew 22:37-38. It’s a passage many of us have memorized since childhood, but living it out can be more difcult than simply knowing the words.
I often describe my testimony as “boring.” I grew up going to church every Sunday, praying regularly, and attending Bible studies. I accepted Jesus into my heart and was baptized at a young age. To some, it might sound ordinary, but I’ve learned that a testimony doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. God has been faithful in shaping my heart through consistency, community, and quiet moments with Him.
Since 2019, I’ve spent part of every summer at Camp Illahee in Brevard, North Carolina. It’s my favorite place on earth, and I’ve never felt God’s presence more clearly than there. One of my favorite parts of camp is Faith and Fellowship, or Bible study. One summer, our leader asked us to share how we practiced our faith outside of camp. She explained how she set aside intentional time every day just to be with Jesus.
“
Her answer made me stop and think. I realized my relationship with Christ mostly lived at church or Bible study; rarely did I seek God out on my own. That realization stayed with me long after camp ended, and I promised myself that I would start spending more time with Jesus in my daily life.
That’s when everything changed. I began reading my Bible more often, praying in my own words, and talking to God like a close friend. Slowly, I started to understand what it means to truly love the Lord with all my heart. I felt less stressed, more joyful, and more at peace than ever.
Today, whenever I go through a rough patch, whether I’m frustrated or stressed, I’ve learned to pause and ask myself, “When was the last time I spent time with Jesus?” Almost every time, it’s been too long. And when I sit down to pray or read scripture, I feel the weight lift from my shoulders. God’s presence never fails to bring peace.
For me, Camp Illahee is more than a
Today, whenever I go through a rough patch, whether I’m frustrated or stressed, I’ve learned to pause and ask myself, ‘When was the last time I spent time with Jesus?’ Almost every time, it’s been too long.”
summer camp. It’s a place where young girls can encounter Christ in a powerful way, grow in their faith, and begin to understand what it means to have a personal relationship with God. And for me, it’s where I first learned how to love the Lord with all my heart. Y
Chesley Quinn is an 11th-grade student at Jackson Academy with a heart for faith, creativity, and leadership. She’s involved in show choir, plays softball and golf, and holds leadership positions across many clubs and teams. Outside of school, she loves volunteering with kids and using her creative gifts to design graphics. Through everything, Chesley strives to honor God and encourage others to see the light of Christ in everyday life.
Chesley Quinn (center) at Camp Illahee.
Faith, support, and care at Marian Hall Assisted Living
Has the subject of assisted living come up in recent conversations with your loved ones? This holiday season, give your family the gift of inner peace by visiting the award-winning Marian Hall at St. Catherine’s Village … where care, comfort, and connection come together for seniors who need assistance with activities of daily living.
For more than 35 years, St. Catherine’s has been Madison’s preeminent Life Plan Community allowing seniors to age with dignity, surrounded by faith. On the beautiful 160-acre wooded campus, assisted living in Marian Hall provides residents with the ability to maintain their independence while receiving personalized support tailored to their needs. Here, every day unfolds in an atmosphere shaped by respect, fellowship, and attentive care.
Residents of Marian Hall receive physical help with day-to-day tasks as well as spiritual nourishment, meaningful fellowship, and the reassuring presence of caring staf who serve with heart and purpose. It’s a place where friendships form naturally, faith is gently woven into daily moments, and seniors can experience joyfulness as part of a loving community.
Marian Hall Assisted Living offers:
● Professional nursing staf with RNs available 24/7
● 24-hour security for peace of mind
● Enriching social, cultural, recreational, and spiritual activities
● Private rooms that feel like home
● Three healthy meals a day, plus snacks
● Large, light-filled sunrooms perfect for reflection and gathering
● Personalized assistance with activities of daily living
● Full access to the entire St. Catherine’s campus
If you’ve been tasked with the responsibility of guiding your parents or loved ones toward an assisted living environment, you know it can be one of the most difcult decisions you’ll face — but it is also an act of compassion. So when the time comes to recommend a move, choosing a safe, nurturing, and faith-filled environment like Marian Hall can bring comfort not only to your loved one but to your whole family.
Wondering if assisted living is the right choice? You can request an assessment for admission directly into Marian Hall. Keep in mind, St. Catherine’s conforms to the Mississippi State Department of Health regulations for admission.
Beyond Marian Hall, the Christian values at St. Catherine’s also direct memory care in Campbell Cove, where seniors facing a variety of memory issues can rediscover confidence, experience companionship, and live with renewed purpose. New residents who move into Campbell Cove by December 31 can lock in 2025 rates for next year.
As you celebrate the season, discover the peace and reassurance that St. Catherine’s Village can bring to your family. Tour Madison’s all-inclusive Life Plan Community today. Call 601-856-0123 or visit StCatherinesVillage.com to schedule your visit.
Madison’s preeminent all-inclusive Life Plan Community. Whatever your senior living needs are, you’ll find the right care at the right time.
If you aren’t sure whether you have a relationship with God or where you’ll go when you die, please don’t put this magazine down until you’ve read the following:
✝ THE PROBLEM
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. – Romans 3:23
For the wages of sin is death … – Romans 6:23a
The natural result and consequence of our sin is eternal death, or hell (Revelation 20:15), separated from God. This is because God is completely perfect and holy (Matthew 5:48), and His justice demands that sin be punished (Proverbs 11:21).
✝ THE SOLUTION
… but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. – Romans 6:23b
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
Jesus Christ died in our place on the cross and took on the punishment for all our sins (Isaiah 53:4-6). Then God raised Him from the dead (John 20)!
✝ HOW TO RECEIVE SALVATION
If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. – Romans 10:9
Trust in what Jesus has done for you — His death for your sins and His resurrection — and trust Him as Lord.
✝ IS IT FOR ANYONE?
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. – Romans 10:13
✝ THE RESULTS
Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 5:1
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39
✝ WHAT TO DO NEXT
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. – Romans 10:17
If you decided to trust in Jesus, grow in your faith by reading more of God’s Word in the Bible. We recommend the gospel of John (it comes just after Luke) as a good starting point — or Romans!
Finding a church close to you that teaches faith in Christ is another important step. It’s crucial to spend time with other believers so we can encourage each other in our faith.
If you have questions about anything on this page, please contact us at 601.896.1432, or send us a message on Facebook @MSChristianLiving, Instagram @mschristianmag or Twitter @MSChristLiving.
A TALE OF THE CHRIST
MCL’s 2025 Christian Leaders of the Year
From left: Todd Jackson, Susie and Eric McNair, Joanne Bell, Sydney Charlton.
Each year, MCL asks for nominations for Christian Leaders of the Year for our December cover story. This year’s honorees represent everything from a preschool choir to economic development, and they share a robust faith in Christ. Listen to MCL’s “A Closer Walk” podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to hear the full, uncut interview — including the hardest and most fun aspects of their ministries!
MEET THE LEADERS
Eric and Susie McNair
Worship / senior adult pastor, preschool minister, respectively; McLaurin Heights Baptist Church, Pearl
From their nomination: “A memory from a number of years ago is of a particularly challenging middle school student. This student was always ‘extra!’ After youth choir one Sunday, she asked Eric and Susie to please come to her dance recital the next Saturday. Although they had a very busy week and other things planned for that Saturday, they made arrangements to attend, making a real diference for this young student. This servanthood mindset has been repeated over and over throughout their years in Christian service in many diferent situations.”
–
Sarah Odom, friend
Todd Jackson
Executive VP, Area Development Partnership (regional chamber of commerce / economic development), Hattiesburg
From his nomination: “One specific way Todd Jackson has impacted my life was during a particularly difcult season when I was feeling overwhelmed, undervalued, and unsure of my next steps. Instead of brushing it of or ofering surface-level encouragement, Todd took the time to listen. He didn’t try to fix everything. He simply reminded me of my worth, both professionally and spiritually. … His belief in me helped restore confidence I didn’t even realize I had lost.”
– Chelsey Everett, coworker
Sydney Charlton
Missions associate, Crossgates Church, Brandon
From her nomination: “Sydney was a speaker at the single moms’ conference a couple of years ago. I had a friend who attended, and Sydney was so intentional with her. Sydney ended up being there to cheer her on at her community college graduation. That’s a small example, but it encompasses who she is: a leader who practices what she preaches.”
– Chrissy Sanders, friend
Joanne Bell
Founder, Woman to Woman with Joanne, Joanne Bell Ministries; worship team member, Pinelake Madison; licensed sales agent, Humana
From her nomination: “Joanne exemplifies servant leadership by ministering through song. … She also commits to going on annual international mission trips in service to others. Locally, Joanne serves by hosting a Bible study on social media and by volunteering at local food pantries. Service to Christ is Joanne Bell’s lifestyle.”
– Kimberly Funchess, former coworker
THE INTERVIEW
Katie Ginn: Who are the Christian leaders who’ve influenced you?
Todd Jackson: My wife and I were pretty lost in our first four to five years of marriage. When she got pregnant with our first child, we said, we need to find a church … So we went to a little Methodist church, and we met two of the most real, authentic Jesus followers, pastor Craig Carter and pastor Mark Jackson. They were absolutely instrumental in demonstrating what it really looks like to lead and to love Jesus authentically.
Then when we relocated to Hattiesburg, we visited Crosspoint (Community Church) for a long time. Dr. Dean Register, who was pastor at the time, is one of my favorite people on earth. And we got to be great friends with his son, Wes, and his wife, Nicole. Crosspoint is where I first heard the term ‘spiritual maturity.’
Joanne Bell: In ministry, I have to say Joyce Meyer. Watching her be as open and honest as she can be about the things she has experienced, the forgiveness she has had to extend. It (also) encouraged me that her ministry didn’t start till she was in her 40s. Watching her teach the Word of God the way that she does, I think that encouraged me to step up.
Susie McNair: Mr. Buford Francis was my youth minister and minister of music at First Baptist West Point. He had a lot of trials and tribulations, but he still sang the praise and meant it. You could see it, the way he lived.
And Mary Ingram, she taught the Bible stories for children’s church, and she made them come alive. Mike Simmons was in the bus ministry, and I would go with him to the neighborhoods and invite children (to church).
Eric McNair: My minister of music when I was a teenager was Lynn Madden. He was my first mentor. He is just a great example of what a Christian should be and what a worship pastor should be.
When I was at William Carey University, Dr. Donald Winters taught me so much. One day, Dr. Winters was down on the (hallway) floor cleaning — somebody had spilled some Orange Crush. (My friend and I) said, ‘Dr. Winters, there are folks that can do this.’ And he looked at us and said, ‘Boys, I’m not too good to clean up stuf.’
Sydney Charlton: My husband Joseph is an educator at our school district’s alternative school, which is a ministry in itself. Joseph leads with patience and compassion in a very, very hard place. And he leads our home the same.
(And) my supervisor, Scott, is a dear friend to me and my family. … (My) 10-yearold has big goals of going with Mr. Scott to Afghanistan as soon as she’s 18, because she’s heard his love for the people there.
When I was a freshman in college, I didn’t know what ministry would look like. I ended up under the leadership of Dr. Greg Belser at Morrison Heights in Clinton. I got to stock vending machines in the student building,
and he would come every Thursday with me to do that. The senior pastor didn’t have to do that. But he was helping me navigate, what does it look like to be called to ministry?
KG: How did each of you get to where you are today, in terms of career and/or ministry?
SC: I grew up in a really small town here in Mississippi and thought I would go of (elsewhere) to school, (but) I ended up (at) Belhaven.
Then, after I finished seminary, (my husband and I) had joined Crossgates (Church in Brandon), and I was working at a locksmith shop. And I was really disgruntled. ‘This is not why I went to school.’ And the Lord really had me there to humble me. These gentlemen really needed to hear the truth.
Then someone in our life group who was on staf at Crossgates called while I was building locks and said, ‘I would like to ofer you a job.’ That was in student ministry. I did that for 11 years. Then the Lord delivered me from that, and I’m thankful. (laughs)
Now I’ve been working in missions (at Crossgates) for about eight years. My start in ministry was just continuing to say yes, even if it didn’t make sense.
EM: I really felt the call to ministry my senior year of high school, but I didn’t want to do that. I thought everyone would think, ‘He just wants to be like Lynn (Madden).’ But I finally came to terms with, this is what the Lord wants.
From left: Todd Jackson, Joanne Belle, Susie and Eric McNair, and Sydney Charlton sit for an interview with Katie Ginn (far right) at McLaurin Heights Baptist Church in Pearl.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13
H ARPER & B AILEY G OVERNMENTAL S OLUTIONS
would like to congratulate
TODD JACKSON
on being selected as a 2025 Christian Leader of the Year!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Gregg Harper and Brett Bailey
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I started serving churches as a sophomore (at William Carey) and just haven’t stopped. (Susie and I) were married, served (at a few diferent churches, and then) the Lord called us in 1985 here to McLaurin Heights. This was a larger church than (our previous one) … and I remember on our way home after our trial weekend, I asked Susie, ‘Do you think I can do this?’
And she said, ‘No ... But I think the Lord through you can.’ So that’s what we’ve been doing all these 40 years now.
JB: Humana is a ministry for me. When I was 13, my uncle died … I remember being at the funeral home, (and) I found out they wouldn’t start the funeral until they knew where the money was coming from. I never forgot that.
So that’s part of my ministry now, helping people see the importance of having coverage. It’s not for you, it’s for those you leave behind.
But I remember when I was a young girl (in) Georgetown, Mississippi … God laid it on my heart to go around to the seniors in the area and read the Bible with them. (That) was, of course, stepping outside of my comfort zone. But that was an encouragement to me. (Now) whenever I feel like God is telling me to do something, I just take of running (toward it). I don’t have the money, I don’t have nothing, we just go. (laughs) But He always has the provision.
So Woman to Woman with Joanne was started in 2014. At that time in my life, I felt like I had lost my voice — as a woman and all the things. You know, we go through things, we choose wrong … But it started as a Facebook page just to share how I was feeling. … and women started commenting and saying, ‘I feel this way too.’ So we (started having our yearly) women’s conference that next year, 2015.
God has had to remind me several times that Woman to Woman with Joanne is not about Joanne. It’s not about how I look or how I feel, but it’s about encouraging other women to move forward with whatever God has put on their heart to do.
Then Joanne Bell Ministries is just what I’ve been doing all my life. I’ve been singing since I could talk, I think. I lead worship wherever I’m called.
SM: Ever since I can remember, I’ve loved babies. So at 13 or 14, I thought I’d be a pediatrician. So when I entered college at William Carey, I signed up for all the
biology courses. That summer, (a doctor) invited me to come sit in with him one afternoon.
(His) last patient was a guy with half his finger hanging of. The doctor said, ‘Get in here and look at this.’ So I leaned over, but it really wasn’t to get a better look, because the room had started spinning. I was leaning over to try not to pass out.
(After that, I believed God) was calling me to be a teacher. My first year out of college, in Star … I taught seventh-grade math, because I had minored in math, but I came home every day saying, ‘Please don’t make me go back! Those girls are so mean!’
Sunday school conference for preschool (ministry). So that started a whole new ball rolling. … I spent several years being in charge of conferences.
I taught second grade the next year. Then we started having children after about four years, so I wanted to stay home as long as I could. So we managed (that) for two years. Then we came here (to McLaurin Heights and) I started teaching preschool here, and I’ve loved that.
A friend of mine’s daddy was in charge of the Rankin County Baptists and needed somebody to lead a conference. So I led a
I’m still here (at McLaurin Heights) as the volunteer preschool ministry person.
TJ: My wife and I are both engineers, went to Mississippi State, started working for GE and moving around the country, and the plan was just to climb that corporate ladder.
Did that for about a decade, and then at some point after we had our first child, we moved to Hattiesburg, and I worked for a startup … (After) four years there, I was
For more than a decade, Todd has lead with Christ-like, servant-hearted leadership, guiding, encouraging, and inspiring others to use their gifts for the good of our community. His steadfast commitment to glorifying God has strengthened Greater Hattiesburg through vision, collaboration, and a gracefilled influence that helps both people and business thrive.
Congratulations Todd!
fired. I mean not just fired, I mean in a blaze of glory, escorted out by security.
We had been going to Crosspoint. (So) on my first Monday (after being fired), I go to Crosspoint and I just hang out. And I end up serving in diferent little areas. And it really was about surrounding myself with godly people.
I felt called to economic development …. So I go meet with the now president of the ADP, Chad Newell. And he (says) anytime somebody came to him about getting into economic development, he’d tell them to go take some classes and get some training, but I was the only one who actually went and did it (and came back).
He was crazy enough to give me a shot. And we were crazy enough to … my first job out of college had paid more than my first job at the (ADP). That’s how much faith it took. But I knew that this was exactly what I was being called to do. Now I’ve been doing that for a decade, (and some) days I still want to quit, but I am reassured about it nonstop.
KG: How would each of you sum up your calling in one sentence?
TJ: This is our church slogan for a reason: to love and lead like Jesus.
JB: To treat people the way I want to be treated. It’s hard because sometimes people don’t treat you the way you want to be treated. (laughs)
SM: To lay the foundation in preschoolers’ lives so they can make the most important decision of their life later, which is to follow Jesus.
who’d like to follow in your footsteps?
EM: I liken my calling to, the Pearl school says they want to teach people to be a lifelong learner, and I want to teach folks to be a lifelong worshipper.
SC: I think my calling is to be interruptible, and to serve Mississippians well.
KG: What encouragement or advice would you give to believers
TJ: Die to yourself. When you really start to pick up your cross daily — and there’s a reason He said daily, because we’re sinners every day — I think that’s when things in our lives started to move in the right direction.
JB: I would first just encourage people that ministry doesn’t just mean you’re standing before people. Your ministry can be (as) an at-home mom. Being in a tech booth can be your ministry. So don’t get
stuck on, ‘I can’t be in ministry’ because you’re not a pastor or preacher.
SM: I would say put God first, and read your Bible. The answers are in there if we read.
EM: Every (believer is) called, whether (to) full-time ministry or as committed lay folk. The two most frustrated people are folks that are (trying) to be something they’re not, and folks that are called but refuse the call.
And then, you know, in whatever type of ministry it is, do it to the best of your ability, and serve the people. It’s easy to be onstage and sing, and you almost think, ‘I did pretty good.’ (But) I would rather folks say, ‘Man, what a great God we have’ instead of, ‘That guy has a good voice.’
SC: Don’t try to figure it all out (before it happens). And like I said before, be interruptible. If our schedules are so full that we can’t stop for the one person who needs us, then are we really ministering in a way that honors God? Y
Lily Pad Cafe offers a leap up
Have you ever driven around the Barnett Reservoir and noticed the floating leaves of the water lilies around the edges? The lily’s root is in the mud at the bottom of the water. It produces a stem that extends upward to the surface, making the green leaf. They are usually round; some are heart-shaped, green on top, purplish underneath, and may have a flower.
This plant became the inspiration for The Lily Pad Cafe, “a not-for-profit restaurant focused on employing and training individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to give them the work skills and confidence necessary to obtain employment with other businesses.”
On my first visit to the Ridgeland cafe, I was greeted warmly at the door by a young man named Tyler. He escorted me to a table, gave me a menu, and then told me about the week’s special, Roast Beef-ABella, while a volunteer stood behind him, available if needed.
After studying the menu further, I decided on the Basil Pesto & Chicken on flatbread, a cauliflower crust, and placed my order at the counter. When it was ready, another young man brought it to my table. Throughout my meal, he asked several times for my lemonade to be refreshed. It too was delicious. The dining area was inviting, and by observing the colors of their T-shirts, you could tell whether they were staf, students, or volunteers.
The why behind The Lily Pad
After my meal, Lily Pad co-founder and director Kristin Lape shared the story of the cafe’s inception.
Everything began in 2012, when Kristin and Brent Lape’s daughter, also named Lily, was born with Down Syndrome. Before leaving the hospital, they were encouraged to reach out to two local organizations: the Little Light House of Central Mississippi and the Central Mississippi Down Syndrome Society.
Meanwhile, Brent liked running 5Ks and marathons to support various causes. It occurred to him that not one of these runs had
Lily Lape and Hayden Elliott at The Lily Pad Cafe in Ridgeland.
Lily Pad staff, volunteer, and paid interns.
promoted the awareness of Down syndrome.
In May 2013, Brent created Running for Lily with the goal of running 321 miles. The number stood for Trisomy 21, the third copy of chromosome 21, which causes Down syndrome. He ran while pushing Lily in her stroller.
Then the Lapes wanted to do a fundraiser for the organizations mentioned earlier. It became known as Run-Up for Downs. Here they met Deanna and Kelly Elliott, whose son Hayden was in Lily’s class at the Little Light House. The Elliotts agreed to be supporters of Run-Up for Downs, and the couples became good friends. (Deanna now serves as president of the Lily Pad board.)
God winks and nods
For the Lapes, the Elliotts, and other parents of children with Down’s, one of their concerns was what comes after high school. Sadly, they learned that there are only a few options. The two couples kept researching and discovered Hugs Cafe in McKinney, Texas, which provides employment training for individuals with special needs.
The Lapes were visiting Texas in 2018 for a wedding and decided to detour to Hugs Cafe. Inside, Kristin watched the students doing every task in this restaurant. It seemed to ignite a fire within her. This was needed in Mississippi, and she wanted to learn more about how to implement it. The Hugs owner advised Kristin to come back when she had a building.
In 2019, the owners of the former M7 Cofee House in Olde Towne Ridgeland reached out to see if The Lily Pad Foundation was interested in purchasing the building.
“We signed a contract in June 2020 and agreed to buy this building in December 2020. That was our goal.”
Fundraising included sponsorship levels for bricks and pavers, tables, and even menu items named in honor of an individual. Three weeks before closing, the foundation was going to have to borrow money. Then came a phone call from an anonymous donor who asked what was needed to buy the building. The money was donated, and the building was purchased with no loan.
Acts of kindness continued as
renovations began. Volunteers caulked and painted, and businesses ofered their services. Staf were hired in May 2024, and the first training began in June. The Lily Pad opened the first weekend of December 2024. The students then became paid interns.
“We wouldn’t be open or where we are today if it weren’t for Hugs and their partnership. (We) have come full circle with them,” stated Kristin.
As far as Kristin knows, The Lily Pad is the only Mississippi nonprofit ofering inhouse training, matching students’ skills with other jobs, and ultimately helping them become independent.
“The name of The Lily Pad represents a stepping stone for every student. We don’t want this to be a permanent place of
employment; we want this to be a place where they feel comfortable and build their confidence,” Kristin says.
“Community involvement plays a large part in the process. (Without) customers, they cannot practice their skills.”
Ways to be Involved
● Eat at the cafe — regularly! The Lily Pad also does catering and grab-and-go.
● Volunteer with The Lily Pad!
● Donate to The Lily Pad Foundation.
● Make plans now to run in the Leap 4 The Lily Pad event, usually held in April.
● Visit thelilypadms.com for more information on all of the above, plus the application for your child to participate in this program.
The Lily Pad hours & info
● Tues-Fri (+ the first Saturday of each month), 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
● 111 N. Wheatley St., Ridgeland | 601213-4590
● Website: thelilypadms.com
● Facebook: facebook.com/thelilypadcafe/ Y
Laura Lee Leathers is a writer and speaker. Imagine Lois Lane, over 65, living on a farm. Her metropolis is the area of freelance writing. Her primary love interest is the Word of God. She digs for information, interviews fascinating people, ofers a cup of biblical hospitali-tea, and encourages, and helps others with the how-to’s of life. Visit LauraLeeLeathers.com.
The Lily Pad Cafe is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, plus the first Saturday of each month.
Hayden Elliott (left) and Lily Lape.
A sweet and savory trio
3-4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 cups chicken broth
4 tbsp. butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1½ cups heavy cream
¼ cup sour cream
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp. onion powder
1 tbsp. garlic powder
Cook the potatoes, onions, broth, and seasonings in a slow cooker on high until the potatoes are tender (3-4 hours).
After potatoes become tender, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until bubbly, and slowly whisk in the heavy cream and sour cream until thick. Add to the slow cooker and stir.
Cook on high for 30 more minutes, then stir in the shredded cheese and you’re ready to serve!
2 (8 count) cans jumbo flaky biscuits
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
¾ cup melted butter (1½ sticks)
1 cup brown sugar
Preheat oven to 350.
Cut each biscuit into 4-6 pieces and set aside.
In a bowl, combine your sugar and cinnamon, and coat your biscuits generously with the mixture.
Add the sugar-coated biscuit pieces to a greased bundt pan.
1 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp. cinnamon
1 box yellow cake mix
Preheat oven to 325.
4 eggs ¾ cup canola oil
1 cup sour cream
In a bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a separate bowl add cake mix, eggs, oil, and sour cream. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes.
To a 9x13” greased cake pan, add ½ of the cake batter. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly, followed by the remaining cake batter. Use a butter knife to swirl everything together. Put in the oven and get started on glaze.
Bake for 35 minutes.
GLAZE
2 cups powdered sugar ¼ cup milk
2 tsp. vanilla extract
In a bowl add all ingredients for glaze and whisk together until well combined. Add more milk if you want a thinner consistency.
Pour glaze over cake while it’s still warm. Let cool for 30 minutes before serving.
Take the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture and add it in with the brown sugar and melted butter until well combined, then drizzle over the biscuits. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool for 15 minutes before flipping it onto a cake plate. Serve while still warm.
You could add walnuts, pecans, or raisins to this if you wanted to add topping. One of our favorite ways to mix it up is to use canned cinnamon rolls instead of biscuits and drizzle the icing over it after we flip it. You can’t go wrong either way! Y
Cassidy Camp is a wife and mother of four from Nesbit, Mississippi. She is a cookbook author and content creator who loves to share afordable, accessible recipes in hopes they will inspire families to slow down and get back to sharing meals around the dinner table. Find her on Facebook as The Cookin Mama, on Instagram @the.cookin.mama_, and on TikTok @the.cookin.mama.
CAKE
PUNKY’S MONKEY BREAD (perfect for Christmas morning)
CROCK POT POTATO SOUP
HONEYBUN CAKE
DECEMBER EPISODES:
On being 'Hopeful-ish' (December 4)
Dr. Carolyn Weber A Season 4 fave! (December 18)
Ginn Season 5 preview! (December 11)
● Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music
● Follow @ohmywordpod on Facebook and Instagram
Scarlet Hiltibidal
Katie
Embracing a Spirit-led holiday season
As Christmas approaches, our calendars fill, our to-do lists grow, and the pressure to create the “perfect Christmas” works its way into our hearts. Between shopping, travel, family gatherings, and the swirl of expectations coming from every direction, it can be easy to forget why we celebrate at all.
But what if this year looked diferent? What if instead of focusing on crafting the perfect season, we focused on cultivating a meaningful one — a season shaped by gratitude, presence, and the peace that comes from walking closely with Christ?
Slowing down the holiday hustle
The world tells us to hurry. Scripture tells us to be still.
During Jesus’ ministry, we often see Him stepping away to pray, reflect, and realign with the Father. If the Savior of the world prioritized pausing, shouldn’t we?
As the holiday rush begins, we can choose to anchor our days in quiet moments with God. It doesn’t have to be elaborate — five minutes of prayer while the cofee brews, a worship song on the drive to work, or a whispered thank-You before bed. These small shifts re-center our hearts and soften our spirits.
The holidays are not about how much we get done — they are about how open we are to receiving what God has for us.
Finding purpose in everyday moments
One of the beautiful things about the Christmas story is that God used ordinary people in an extraordinary way. Mary, a young girl. Joseph, a humble carpenter. Shepherds working the night shift. None of them were influential by worldly standards.
God still reveals His glory in the everyday. He is present:
● In the kitchen, while you prepare dinner for your family
● In the car, singing Christmas songs with your kids
● In the late-night gift wrapping sessions
● In the quiet moments after everyone has gone to bed
● In the laughter shared during holiday gatherings
Our lives don’t need to look perfect to be purposeful. God is woven into every moment when we invite Him into the center of it.
Practicing hospitality from the heart
Hospitality isn’t about having the prettiest tablescape or the most aesthetically pleasing home — it’s about creating space for people to feel seen, loved, and welcome. True hospitality is not performance. It’s ministry.
It’s the warm hug at the door.
The extra seat at the table for someone who has nowhere else to go.
The intentional check-in with a friend who’s grieving or overwhelmed.
The simple prayer asking God to fill your home with peace and joy.
This kind of heart-led hosting leaves a deeper impact than decor ever could.
When the holidays feel heavy
For many, this season is tender. Some are navigating loss, loneliness, or life transitions. Some feel financial pressure or unmet expectations. If this is you, please remember: You don’t have to “feel festive” to be faithful.
The same Jesus who entered the world in the quiet of a stable meets us gently in our quiet places, too. He draws near to the
brokenhearted, comforts the weary, and reminds us that Emmanuel means God with us — not just in the joyful moments but in the painful ones as well.
Let this be a season where you let yourself rest in His presence. Trust that He can hold both the beauty and the burden.
Creating a Christ-centered Christmas
This year, consider setting one simple intention: Invite Jesus into every part of your holiday season.
Invite Him into your planning. Invite Him into your gatherings. Invite Him into your traditions.
Invite Him into your heart — every rushed, imperfect, hopeful part of it.
When we shift our focus from producing Christmas to experiencing Christ, the entire season transforms. There is more peace, more gratitude, more joy, and more meaning woven into each moment. The holidays become less about impressing others and more about expressing God’s love.
Wishing you and yours the merriest (and calmest) holiday season!
With gratitude, Nicole
A final note
If you’re looking for thoughtful, meaningful, budget-friendly gifts for the loved ones in your life, I’ve curated gift guides to make your shopping easier and more joyful. You can shop on my website, leliassoutherncharm.com, or download the free LTK app and search for “leliassoutherncharm” to follow along for daily gift inspo. You can also find me on any social platform as @leliassoutherncharm. Y
Nicole Brown, the creative force behind Lelia’s Southern Charm, channels her passion for fashion into inspiring content, sharing her latest finds, Pinterest-worthy outfits, and local favorites. When not curating her digital closet, she’s exploring new destinations and cultivating a community that celebrates finding the joy in the everyday! Find her at LeliasSouthernCharm.com, @leliassoutherncharm on Instagram or TikTok, and Lelia’s Southern Charm on Facebook and Pinterest.
Life insurance can be the cornerstone of your family’s financial plan. Let us show you the promise life insurance offers, a promise that protects your family’s future.
But God Ministries is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization, that shares the love of Jesus Christ through building sustainable communities in Haiti and the Mississippi Delta. We work in SPHERES: Spiritual, Physical, H2O, Education, Roofs, Economic Development, and Soil.
To learn more about our work or to make a donation to support our mission, visit our website at www.butgodministries.com or contact us at 601-983-1179
“Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – ISAIAH 7:14B
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”
~ LUKE 2:7, ESV
“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
~ MATTHEW 1:21, NIV
“Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ‘See, the virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel,’ which is translated ‘God is with us.’”
~ MATTHEW 1:22-23, CSB
“When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
~ MATTHEW 2:10-11, NLT
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
~ JOHN 1:14, KJV
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”
~ GALATIANS 4:4-5, ESV
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”
~ 2 CORINTHIANS 9:15, NKJV
“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
~ LUKE 2:14, NKJV
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
~ ISAIAH 9:6, ESV
“Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”
~ LUKE 2:10-11, KJV
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
~ ISAIAH 7:14, NIV
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf.”
~ MICAH 5:2, NLT
“And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.’”
~ LUKE 1:46-47, ESV
LOCAL PRIDE, SYSTEM STRENGTH
FMOL Health | St. Dominic is part of one of the leading health systems in the Gulf South. Our connected team is committed to delivering exceptional care, and we do it with great love. We believe that the best possible care is not just a job for us — it’s our calling.
