 | Jerry and Mary Ann Bell
You hardly mention one name before the other spouse’s name rolls off your tongue. Jerry and Mary Ann Bell actually met in Kindergarten and started dating in the eighth grade. Other than a 6-month break-up in high school (you’ll have to get the story from them), they have been dating ever since! About a year after joining OKC First (24 years ago), they were asked to lead a ministry to singles. According to their son, Mike, “My brother Tim and I felt we either lost our parents during this time or we gained 20-30 siblings. Seldom did we call them or dropped by that they weren’t counseling or praying with someone in the group going through some crisis!”
Marisela Brown, who attended the Singles’ class at that time, writes, “Mary Ann has been there for me from the first day I arrived to OKC First. She has guided me in spiritual issues, marriage questions, financial advice and has been there with me every time I have gone down to the altar to ask for healing. They both mean so much to Monte and me, because they have guided us not only through the hard times, but even through our daily life.”
Tina Hughes adds, “I was one of the fortunate members of that group. They provided us with wonderful examples of what it meant to grow up in Christ. I, and the others in that group, are better people and better church members for having been affected by their ministry.”
Jerry served many years on the board before stepping aside for the last ten years, until this past year. Mary Ann is affectionately known as the “cookie lady” to Pastor Jon and the students at PC Academy.
Perhaps the best endorsement of their faithfulness to their church and to their family is summed up in these words by Mike, “Tim and I can vouch that what you see in them at church is exactly who they are at home.”
This kind and gracious couple has blessed, and continues to bless, the people of OKC First Church.
|