Pauline Whitford

Pauline

Whitford

“

The Lord has been a friend and guide in my life and on our travels, and the power of prayer has helped me in various situations.

I was born into a Christian Baptist family.   My father became Pastor of Carlton Baptist Church near Nottingham.   My brother, sister and I grew up through the Sunday School and were members of the Girls’ Brigade and Boys’ Brigade.   We had many happy times and learnt many things as we rose through the ranks.  I was 16 when I was baptised by my father along with three friends.   It was a moving ceremony with a packed church of families and friends.

When I was 18, I left the family home to work at Dr Barnardo’s in Bedford, caring for children of mixed ages with differing problems.   The company where my future husband Treve worked, treated the children in various ways.   Eventually we were married.  Yes, by my father in Carlton.   We have been blessed with two sons and three grandchildren.

Treve’s job took us to Waterlooville, where I became a member of the Baptist church and made many friends.  I did voluntary work for the Red Cross, handing out wheelchairs and aids for needy people.

We were sent a couple of times to the U.S.A. on assignments for the International Baptist Mission. Our first trip was to Poughkeepsie in New York State, where we stayed for 18 months. We both joined Roosevelt Engine Company 3 of the Hyde Park Fire and Rescue Squad and our two young sons attended the local school.

Our second assignment took us to Raleigh, North Carolina where I attended Creedmore Road Baptist church.   I did voluntary work in a Seniors’ Retirement Home where they liked to hear my English accent, reading short stories and news items.

Back in England, we lived in Harefield where I attended the Baptist church.  It was a small church, but so friendly.  The nearby Northwood Theology College used to send their students for their training at church services.  Again, I found voluntary work, this time at the renowned Harefield heart hospital in the Pacemaker clinic and also in the shop and cafe.

When we retired, we needed to get away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and be nearer the family.   We are now settled in Stanbridge, and I’ve joined Hockliffe Street Baptist Church.   A good friend asked if I would take over being Marriage Registrar for the church. I did this for a good few years, and found it an interesting and responsible job.   I feel my life has been mapped out for me in such an interesting way.

The Lord has been a friend and guide in my life and on our travels, and the power of prayer has helped me in various situations. The Baptist churches I have attended have shown me friendship and support. One of my favourite hymns is “What a friend we have in Jesus…… Take it to The Lord in prayer,” a beautiful hymn with inspirational words for everyone.