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Event features HOH International’s global chaplain as keynote speaker

 

LANDRUM—On September 13, Thermal Belt Habitat for Humanity hosted a Faith Breakfast at the Landrum Depot, bringing together representatives of various churches, organizations, and Habitat for Humanity board members. The event featured Dr. Terrance Gattis, Habitat for Humanity International’s Global Chaplain, as the keynote speaker, who shared the inspiring story that led to Habitat for Humanity’s founding.

The breakfast commenced with an invocation from Pastor Mark Bishop of Landrum First Baptist and a warm welcome and introduction from Henderson County and Thermal Belt Habitat for Humanity President and CEO Linda Saturno. 

Saturno highlighted the urgent need for volunteers and donations and expressed gratitude to local organizations contributing to ongoing builds in Landrum and Columbus. The event also emphasized the current need for a family for the Landrum build.

Dr. Gattis delved into Habitat for Humanity’s history, recounting the journey of Millard Fuller, who, at 29, became a self-made millionaire but sought a deeper purpose. The search led Fuller and his family to Koinonia Farm, a Christian community in Georgia, where they dedicated themselves to practically applying Christ’s teachings. 

Dr. Gattis recommended the documentary ‘Briars in the Cotton Patch,’ which sheds light on the challenges faced by Koinonia Farm in the 1960s. The farm paid black and white workers an equal wage and faced threats and violence.

Speaking from his own experience, Dr. Gattis shared his decision to leave his executive position at Coca-Cola for the ministry, expressing his desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives every day.

Reminding everyone of Habitat’s mission statement of putting God’s love into action, Dr. Gattis emphasized the organization’s commitment to bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope. He also stressed the importance of creating a beloved community, citing the Dodds Meadows community in E. Flat Rock as a shining example.

“Our goal is to build a beloved community,” stated Dr. Gattis, underlining the significance of prayer, volunteerism, engagement, and local support in achieving this vision.

The Faith Breakfast served not only as a moment of inspiration and reflection but also as a call to action, urging individuals and organizations to join hands in furthering the cause of Habitat for Humanity and building stronger, more compassionate communities.

For more information, visit thermalbelthabitat.org