Baldwins celebrate 20 years

Ray and Nancy Baldwin have become fixtures in the pews of Tyler Metro Church, in the community and in the schools. Their work with children began 20 years ago and is still going strong.

Pastor Jerry Phelps said when he was talking to the Baldwins about pastoring the children of the church he was looking for someone who would stay for the long haul. That has certainly been the case.

"I remember telling him that our dream and vision was to see children grow to be exciting Christian teens and then to see them become strong adults who will teach and train their children about living for God," said Ray Baldwin. "Well over the years we have seen this happen."

Their love for children has reached into classroom throughout East Texas with a program called Much To Do About Reading. Every week they read or tell stories to second and third grade students and have even received the Friends of Education award from the Texas Teachers Association.

Their work includes feeding the needy at Christmas directing the Whitehouse Community Project Joy for 15 years.

They will celebrate with many of the kids from the past this Sunday at Tyler Metro Church.