Happy 75th Birthday Pastor Paul

Today is Pastor Paul's 75th Birthday. Starting his day at his, Pastor Paul's Mission, 5:00am sharp he will be preparing grocery bags that he will distribute to the people who need food and rely on him today.

He starts by adding perishables to the prepackaged grocery bags. This morning he has grapefruits, apples, potatoes-mashed and fresh, pkg frozen mushrooms & onions, 3-24oz mango juice, and 3-4 of bread items. The frozen meat items are given at the time people receive the grocery order. He will get the meat ready for distribution beforehand at this time. After all of the perishables are added to the bags, he checks for other food items to give away. He generally checks the boiler to make sure it is working to heat the building. Cleans up, breaks down boxes, and pulls other foods from the warehousing in the building.

Jim and Carolyn come in at 7:00am and he meets with them. They all plan what else goes in the orders, what has to be brought in from the outside refrigerated and freezer trailers. Pastor Paul's Mission is known for distributing large quantities of perishables such as fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meats and dairy products, and breads and baked goods. All of these foods need to be given away daily. Carolyn and Jim have many things to do before people come in at 9:30am expecting lots of good food. They are seldom disappointed.

Pastor Paul opens the doors at 9:30am to the initial 50 people who have been waiting some as early as 7:00am. People continue to come in until 11:20 closing time. Sometimes he may give the welcome shout, 'Lets Get Ready to Rumble'. Many conversations take place while he is opening the door. Many greetings, asking questions, like what is extra today, and then they visit with each other, usually about their expenses and concerns.

People are generally always very 'up' and come expecting. They know he is there and ready to serve them without holding back. Some may ask him questions and come to him for advice. He is always quick to answer 'honestly'. They appreciate his counsel. Many know him and love him and some are surprised that 'he' is Pastor Paul. Then for the next 2-3 hours he is there for them completely, physically and spiritually, without reserve.

He has become known over the last 30 years as a true friend who cares. A lifetime of 75 years and 30 years of friendship.