EDITOR’S NOTE: This year marks the historic 50th anniversary of Linda Morgan’s service as a part of the Baptist Children's Homes (BCH) ministry. On March 22, 2023, staff members, family, and friends celebrated this momentous occasion at an "Anniversary Jubilee" at Broyhill Home in Clyde. The gala not only honored Linda but recognized caregivers and staff members in BCH's Western Area who are also celebrating anniversaries this year. Below, Linda reflects on her tenure and how God took an “old blackberry patch” and created a “haven of hope.”
On March 19, 1973, at the age of 19, I became an employee of Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH). Little did I know that in March of 2023, I would be celebrating my 50th anniversary in service to children and families. As I reflect on this accomplishment, the most important part of my experience is knowing God has directed my life. It is certainly His hand that has guided me throughout my career—and to Him be all the glory.
I arrived on campus driving my 1966 Chevy Malibu and never really planned to stay. My goal was to work hard while looking for another job in Haywood County. However, God had other plans. My first job was as secretary of Broyhill Home. I quickly noticed what a difference the staff members were making in the lives of hurting children. It inspired me and I set my attention on making a difference, too.
As the years passed, I became a childcare worker supervisor, resident director, and director of campus life at Broyhill Home. And then I was humbled when I was tapped by BCH President/CEO Dr. Michael C. Blackwell to become the Western Area Director. Today, my title is Senior Statewide Director of Cottage Care/Foster Care. However, of all those titles, there is only one that I truly treasure—that is “Child of God.” When I speak in churches and before groups, that is the title I use.
Over these past 50 years, God has allowed me to testify of His greatness as He turned an old blackberry patch into a haven of hope for children. I was there to see Broyhill Home being built and the old saying “build it and they will come” certainly rings true. I witnessed God-called staff come to fill the roles of loving cottage parents, case managers, office professionals, and maintenance workers. They all came because God directed them to come. The
staff members at BCH are the essence of: “Here I am Lord.... Send Me.”
Throughout all these years, I have witnessed God’s hand on a group of Christians who answered the call to serve. We are all here to care for God’s children. I have treasured memories of my 50 years. They involve the children and helping them to make memories they can take with them as they leave. Many times, children come back to visit and they always share the memories they captured while living at Baptist Children’s Homes.
The other day, I was driving down the road and I saw a sign that said “Disaster Recovery Center”, and it hit me that at Baptist Children’s Homes we have been in the disaster recovery business for the past 138 years—going about God’s business of sharing His promise to broken hearts, the abused and neglected, those who fall into the wrong crowds, those from broken families. We are going about God’s business of sharing His promise, “As I was with Moses, so will I be with thee: I will never fail thee nor for-
sake thee.”
Children need to hear that promise when they are traumatized and their lives are in turmoil. Fifty years, and it seems like yesterday I began employment. Why? It seems like yesterday because it is a joy to work with children and staff knowing that God is with us and that He will never leave us nor forsake us as we allow Him to be our guide in caring for children. It is a high and holy moment when you work each day providing God’s presence in the life of a child.
Written by Linda Morgan, Senior Director, Cottage Care Homes/Foster Care
Gallery: The gallery below includes photos from the March 22, 2023 "Anniversary Jubilee" at Broyhill Home. The event not only recognized Linda but celebrated other BCH staff members.
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