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DEL.ICIO.USChurch helping Baby Noor touts faith in action
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Becky Stein/Special
"This is just the beginning," Debbie Stone told fellow Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church members during services Sunday.
The plight of a sick Iraqi infant has stirred a spirit of compassion at Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church.
The Douglas County church played a key role in delivering Noor al-Zahra from Iraq to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where she remained in good condition Sunday.
The church’s success against daunting odds in Baby Noor’s case has galvanized members involved in an emerging effort to help more people outside the sanctuary walls.
The Rev. Adam Roberts praised his church’s effort on behalf of the Iraqi infant Sunday but peppered a sermon with references to others who are hurting and vulnerable. He prayed for “all those who are in need … who we might be called to help.”
Now that the church, just south of Douglasville, has raised $15,000 for Noor and helped arrange free medical care, he urged members to clothe foster children, help Hurricane Katrina victims and offer assistance to other Iraqis.
Church members gave a standing ovation Sunday to Debbie Stone, a 40-year-old social worker and mother of two who championed Noor’s cause after receiving an e-mail from Lt. Jeff Morgan, a friend serving with the Georgia Army National Guard in Iraq.
“This isn’t about me. It isn’t really about us,” Stone told the congregation.
“It’s about what God is doing in our community and in our world.”
Founded about 10 years ago, Shepherd of the Hills has about 300 members and a decidedly casual style, with members in blue jeans sipping coffee at tables while men and women sing and play guitars and saxophones on stage.
Its members have periodically raised money for Cambodian missionaries, and one class regularly sends money to a Cambodian orphan in his early teens.
The church has taken up offerings for members behind on utility bills. It collected $3,000 for tsunami relief and $1,200 after Hurricane Katrina, said Krystol Brooks, chairwoman of an outreach committee.
About a year ago, though, Stone and Kelly Smith, the church’s financial manager, began talking about doing more.
Roberts supported an increased focus on outreach when he became pastor a few months ago.
The church has since sent a team to Mississippi to help victims of Hurricane Katrina rebuild.
Members started donating clothes for foster children in metro Atlanta a few months ago at the urging of April Jorgensen, 34.
“Kids can be so mean to children who don’t have the right clothes,” said Jorgensen, a foster mother.
“What we’re trying to do is show God’s love not by preaching or beating people over the head with the Bible,” her husband, Neil, said.
Meeting real needs
Lieutenant Morgan, who has attended Shepherd of the Hills, told Stone about Noor just as Stone and others were finalizing plans for Lifeover Ministries, envisioned as a church-affiliated nonprofit that would help meet real needs of real people.
Stone made Noor a personal cause, making call after call in search of a doctor willing to donate services to operate on Noor. The baby has a severe form of spina bifida, an ailment in which the spine does not fully form.
Stone told the church Sunday she acted to help the infant and the soldiers who found her.
“They go out every day. They’re doing their jobs. They’re patrolling. They’re catching insurgents, but these people have a heart just like we have.
“They want to make a difference,” she said. “Everybody was so willing to help.”
The church’s highly publicized success with Baby Noor — camera crews filmed the sermon Sunday — should inspire members to know what they can achieve in efforts that unfold outside the spotlight, Roberts said.
In addition to collecting clothes for foster children and planning another trip to Mississippi, church members hope to help other children in Iraq.
Stone said soldiers have told her about an Iraqi girl who lost an arm and went blind when a grenade exploded.
“If we don’t help her, she’s going to grow up illiterate,” Stone said.
The church may also collect money to buy and send prenatal vitamins that soldiers could distribute to expectant Iraqi mothers.
Its members plan to buy wheelchairs for several elderly Iraqis and soccer balls for children.
“This is just the beginning,” Stone said.
Comments
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By Marie
January 2, 2006 07:46 AM | Link to this
A little after Xmas I know but worth sharing…. I do not know who the author is
A Different Christmas Poem
The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light, I
gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest, My daughter
beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe, Completed
the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep, Secure
and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem, So I
slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn’t loud, and it wasn’t too near, But I
opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn’t quite know, Then the
sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow.
My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear, And I
crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night, A
lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old, Perhaps a
Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled, Standing
watch over me, and my wife and my child.
“What are you doing?” I asked without fear, “Come in
this moment, it’s freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve,
You should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!”
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift, Away from
the cold and the snow blown in drifts..
To the window that danced with a warm fire’s light
Then he sighed and he said “Its really all right, I’m out here by choice.
I’m here every night.”
“It’s my duty to stand at the front of the line, That
separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me, I’m proud to
stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at ‘Pearl on a day in December,” Then
he sighed, “That’s a Christmas ‘Gram always remembers.”
My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ’ Nam ‘, And
now it is my turn and so, here I am.
I’ve not seen my own son in more than a while, But my
wife sends me pictures, he’s sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag, The
red, white, and blue… an American flag.
“I can live through the cold and the being alone, Away
from my family, my house and my home.
I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet,
I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another, Or lay down
my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all, To ensure
for all time that this flag will not fall.”
“So go back inside,” he said, ” harbor no fright, Your
family is waiting and I’ll be all right.”
“But isn’t there something I can do, at the least,
“Give you money,” I asked, “or prepare you a feast?
It seems all too little for all that you’ve
done, For being away from your wife and your son.”
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret, “Just
tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we’re gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead, To
know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust, That
we mattered to you ……..as you mattered to us.
By Verba
January 2, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this
Dr. Hudgins was part of a miracle for my son, Heath, in 1989. He is an incredible doctor with an incredible heart. Thank you Dr. Hudgins for all the lives you have and continue to touch.
By pat
January 2, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this
I am puzzled by the continuing news stories about Baby Noor. While her situation is heart wrenching and treatment is a welcome blessing for this little girl, these types of stories happen every day. There are many sick & injured children deserving of medical attention in Iraq and around the world. Why so much focus on this one child? Perhaps it’s because it’s a feel good story that distracts us from some of the harsh realities of war? Who is pushing this story from behind the scenes? Are our heart strings being tugged and played for political motives? Where is the questioning?
By Heather
January 2, 2006 11:17 AM | Link to this
That Poem was Amazing. It gave me chills. Im so proud of our Troops!!!!!!!!
GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Anna Blau
January 2, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this
The poem is so poignant in its honesty. My brother served in ‘Nam as well and he always cherished having been a Marine. He is gone now, but the family’s support of the troops is a tribute to his belief that while one may disagree with a particular war, the troops should always be supported.
By Jerry Moore
January 2, 2006 04:05 PM | Link to this
BRAVO
Many elements of the news media and those with a protracted slant to the left are forever criticizing the war effort in Iraq and Afghanistan. How refreshing it is to read and continue to follow the heart-warming story about a little girl who probably would be dead in a few weeks of months had it not been for the compassionate intervention of a few good soldiers. Way to go guys! Good luck Little Noor!
By teasley's wife
January 2, 2006 07:44 PM | Link to this
I think what Lt. Morgan and the guys did is very heart warming and a great blessing for Noor and her family. God Bless the 48th and the rest of our military men and women.
By i agree with pat
January 3, 2006 11:59 AM | Link to this
This is a nice story, but 13 blogs on the same topic in a week is a bit much. …
By just wondering...
January 3, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this
If this had been done in WWII someone would be in prison for aiding and abetting the enemy…. think about it. It is terible for the child but couldn’t the help have been better used for a WOUNDED AMERICAN SOLDIER? Or how about an AMERICAN child who lost a parent in the war? Or a wife who lost a job by staying by her husband in an Army or Navy hospital for 6 months while waiting for them to live or die? May CHRIST (not Allah) have mercy on our souls.
By Pat is right
January 3, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this
I also agree with Pat. It’s time to move on to another topic, the national news has picked up this story. I wish baby Noor the very best and hope the surgery is a complete sucess. Having worked in the field of special education, she has a special place in my heart. The troops who found her and worked so hard to get her to Atlanta for treatment will surely be blessed. Please, let’s have articles about other soldiers in the 48th again.
By Crystal
January 5, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this
Keep up the GOOOOOD WORK !!!!!!!!!!! <3
By Christy
January 5, 2006 07:12 PM | Link to this
It saddens my heart that so many people are ready to just “move on” to another subject. Maybe your right, the negative news that is shown everyday that poisons our minds, is a much better option. I attend the church and I know first hand the hearts of the people that are involved. How are we suppose to show God”s love to the Iraqi people if are so focused on the negativety of everyday life. Yes, the world is not a perfect place, but this is not a political move, this is GODS work first hand, in our face! And with everything else that is in the media, I definately believe God deserves the spotlight for a change!!
By puzzled
January 5, 2006 11:00 PM | Link to this
Were other churches asked to help? Our church certainly wasn’t included in this effort and would have been happy to help if we had known about it. Maybe more could be done if other churches were asked to contribute. After all, according to this article, “The pastor at Shepherd of the Hills, the Rev. Adam Roberts, cited the Baby Noor case as an example of what good can come when people acting together set out to accomplish something that might seem impractical.â€? Imagine what could be done if MORE churches FULL of people were involved. Or should it only come from their church members?
Many questions come to mind after reading the article about this church (and seeing and hearing other things behind the scenes). Word from a member of this church is that members of this church were “asked NOT to go the airport”…a public place where many people go everyday. They were told “only four people could go.â€? Why couldn’t they go to the airport? Does the airport only hold 4 people? Did they cancel all flights for the day and evacuate the entire airport for this baby’s arrival? NO, and many people were there in support of this little girl and her family and everyone who helped out!
Why was Lt. Jeff Morgan’s girlfriend, whom I know personally, was IGNORED and even pushed away by this church in her efforts to help out? Why was she discouraged from being an active part of this endeavor, especially as important as it is to Jeff? I know from her that she wanted to do everything that she could to help him, Baby Noor and the family but received no cooperation when she offered her time and assistance to Stone.
“’This isn’t about me. It isn’t really about us,’ Stone told the congregation.�…or is it?
We do appreciate that you helped bring Baby Noor and her family to Georgia for treatment but feel it REALLY was about the spotlight and glory for THIS church and CHOSEN members.
Family member of a member of this church
By 48th wife
January 7, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this
To Puzzled and others who would like to be involved: If you would like to know what you can do to make a difference, please contact me at: tsaperstein23@charter.net. We need help collecting supplies for the Radwinyah Clinic started Sept 20, by our 48th Brigade Surgeon, LTC John Vogel. Major Mark Cuttle is now the liaison there. He is with the 101st Airborne. Our US Army, Air Force, and the Iraqi Army all work together at the Radwinyah Clinic to make a difference for the people of the surrounding area. That is the key: working together. NEEDS FOR THE CLINIC We need storage space (hopefully short term) We need a frieght carrier to get the supplies to Port. We need a company to pay for the shipping of these supplies (501 (C) (3)through the 48th FRG) We still need 3 exam tables, 3 exam lights, exam tools, lab equipment, pre-natal vitamins, nebulizers, ect.. We have found shipment for one container of 200 wheelchairs and as many canes crutches, and walkers donated by “Joni and Friends/Wheelchairs for the World” We will have at least one more container to ship containing the above needs, and the contributions of Pheobe Hospital in Albany, Ga. and a complete X-ray room donated by a medical supply company in Alabama. This is a 48th FRG project- we welcome your support!! Helping baby Noor, and all the many other acts of love and kindness, are all very important, some may go unnoticed, that doesn’t make them any less needed. We should be proud of all our Armed Forces and take their lead- Work together!!!
Thank you
By more puzzled
January 8, 2006 07:29 PM | Link to this
And your misinformed point is……?
By Jenni
January 9, 2006 07:34 AM | Link to this
To “puzzledâ€?…I read your blog and felt the need to reply to you personally. I am deeply disturbed by your negative comments.
Yes, I wanted to be totally involved with this effort before, during and after it came to light. I believe I was the FIRST person Lt. Jeff Morgan contacted back home about a project that they were working on over there. He explained to me what they were doing and I was not surprised by him being involved. This is WHO HE IS!!! Jeff doesn’t do it for the spotlight; as a matter of fact, if they had left his name out of the articles, he would have been just as happy because the important thing is that Baby Noor get taken care of.
Background info…Jeff has a HUGE heart for children (and adults too!) and it is evident in ALL that he has done, is doing, and will do. He did many acts of service for the Iraqi people BEFORE this was publicized. And many more for people at home BEFORE he went over. He has continued to serve the Iraqis after Baby Noor left Iraq and WILL continue long after the spotlight goes out.
I KNEW that the soldiers would make this happen…never doubted it for even a split second. Is this bigger than I expected? YES!!! Will JEFF do more? YES!!! (Some “projects� are already in the workings!) He is no longer with Charlie Company because he was needed elsewhere but he is still working with them to get others taken care of medically.
Second, your comments about the church are unnecessary. I understand your feelings; however, maybe you should address them with your family member who attends there or to the church directly. (I refuse to comment further. I will say, however, that Jeff is actively pursuing church membership elsewhere and was working on it BEFORE he went to Iraq…he felt it was time to move on for personal reasons.)
Third, I am STILL actively involved in this. I am working behind the scenes quietly because I DO NOT want the spotlight. I was supporting Jeff on many levels including on a personal level LONG BEFORE he left to go over there, the entire time he has been over there and since he first told me about Baby Noor! I am responding to comments on here to answer questions, comments, etc. I am also keeping him informed on the latest developments about her.
I am disappointed in some people’s need for being in the spotlight. Believe me, if I want the spotlight, I have reporters in my back pocket…but I REFUSE it. This is Baby Noor’s story and not about ME or any of us! I don’t NEED to be on TV or in the newspaper to show my support to him. I supported him in what he did, is doing, and will do…LONG before it was the POPULAR thing to do. He (and God) know that I support/supported/will support him in ALL that he does/did/will do…that is all that matters.
Sincerely, Jenni Gerard (Lt. Morgan’s girlfriend)
By Member of church
January 9, 2006 08:40 AM | Link to this
To: More puzzled
We were asked not to go and I agree with what was said by “puzzled”.
By Jeff Eaton
January 9, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this
I saw an article yesterday on CNN about a children’s hospital in Baghdad that had many sick babies. The resident medical care could only provide basic care. The parents were desperate to have their children get the care that they needed. My question is where can I get information to pass on to my church, so that they can use their resources to help these people? I think that it’s time that more Christian organizations get involved in Iraq by helping in tangible ways. It may make a difference. Please respond.
By Blessed
January 10, 2006 05:40 PM | Link to this
Response to Jennie and Puzzeled:
I agree, I know Lt. Jeff Morgan and he does have a huge heart for humanity. However, from my understanding that Child Spring International ask only for a few people to go to the airport. Lt. Morgan has 4 children in the Atlanta area who could not participate in welcoming Baby Noor out of the respect for Baby Noor’s family. Due to Debbie Stone’s role in this mission, she deserved to welcome Baby Noor to ensure the baby’s well being. I believe Debbie and Lt. Morgan fore filled their calling.
I also believe in the work that Shepard of the Hills does for God’s people. There were emails sent to other church’s for assistance and prayers for Baby Noor.
I hope that we can all learn and live by all parties involved example …. Lt. Morgan and troops.
Now, is it really the time or place to point fingers of who did what? Wasn’t God’s work done?
By discouraged
January 10, 2006 07:49 PM | Link to this
to “jennie” as a family member all i can say is you just don’t get it. … This is and should only be about a special baby girls life and the heroic soldiers of CHARLIE COMPANY. …
By Jenni
January 11, 2006 07:37 PM | Link to this
To discouraged…I agree and they should be supported 365 (or 366) days a year and not just when they do something that makes national headlines. That was my point! I have supported our military OPENLY my ENTIRE life.
Jenni (Jeff’s girlfriend)
By Jenni
January 12, 2006 07:40 AM | Link to this
YES…this should be about a baby and the heroics of one unit. AND…it should be about loving ALL God’s children and supporting ALL of our military 24/7/365. Not just when they make local, state, national or international headlines.
Jenni (Lt. Jeff Morgan’s girlfriend)
By More Puzzled
January 14, 2006 10:07 PM | Link to this
Once again, Jennie, you don’t get it. The support for Baby Noor and Charlie Company started way before the publicity. You cannot control the media. This was in the works before the media found about it. But, the media was a great part in helping those involved spread the word. Those involved proceeded on faith and prayer alone. The media came later. Stop touting the “I’m Lt Jeff Morgan’s girlfriend”, get off this blog and do something productive.