Member of the Month 

April 2006

Thelma Lanham

by: Tom Whitener

This month is commonly known for its “April Showers”. A familiar hymn we all know speaks of  “Showers of Blessing”. These two thoughts can be wonderfully combined through the words of Thelma Lanham, our April 2006 Member of the Month. She is quick to point out that she has received many blessings in her life because the Lord’s hand was on her.  

Currently living in St. Albans, this dear 81 year-old lady is the mother of 4 daughters and the grandmother of 7 grandchildren. Mrs. Lanham remembers how she first met her husband of 62 years, Kenneth, while he was taking ballroom dancing lessons from her mother, who was a dance teacher. Kenneth passed away four years ago, but Thelma emphasizes, “The Lord blessed me with a great husband who always looked out for me.”

Thelma became a member of Spring Hill Baptist Church in 2002. She explains, “The people here took me into their heart and shared with me in such a precious way.” Being active with the Sunshine Seniors, Thelma tells me, “I really enjoy being with the people of God, especially those who are in my same age group. We have a great time on our trips.” She also benefits from reading her Bible and receives special meaning from some of her favorite verses: Psalm 27:4 and Romans 8:1, 38 & 39.

The Great Depression was an era in American history when many people needed help in many ways. In order for her mom, a young widow, to do what she needed to do, Thelma spent time during her early childhood (age 2 through 7) staying off and on at the Union Mission Children’s Home.

It was there that Thelma came to know Jesus Christ as her personal Savior when she was 5 years old. Thelma recalls, “I was singing in the children’s choir that night. The speaker gave an invitation and I knew that I should give my heart to the Lord. So I stepped out from the choir loft.”

Thelma is still singing today. While she enjoys all the hymns, she says “How Firm A Foundation” is her personal favorite. She can often be seen from her pew singing the congregational hymns. Looking upward, she sings the words of praise directly to her Heavenly Father. She states, “It is a privilege to go to the House of the Lord. I thank Him for His keeping power. The Lord continues to lead my way.”

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