Our Own Chapel Hill War Hero

Each Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day at Chapel Hill, we honor those who have served our country and pray for our servicemen and women, as well as our nation’s leaders. With the presentation of the Colors this Sunday, we will honor a World War II veteran and one of our own Chapel Hill members—Ray Payne.

Here’s a bit of Ray’s story: Drafted into the Navy on June 3, 1943, Ray was assigned to complete boot camp in Farragut, ID. Over the next 3 years, Ray would move from assignment to assignment- often in one place for only weeks at a time. He ultimately served in the Pacific, training squadrons, and was honorably discharged on April 5, 1946. He served in the U.S. Navy for 33 months.

Fortunately for us, that’s not where Ray’s story ends. Ray and his wife Patty joined Chapel Hill in 1990 and have become an integral part of who we are. They’ve supported our youth ministry, served in our kitchen and on Cornerstones, led our Good Grief ministry, hosted interns…and frankly…served as true pillars of this congregation.

We’ve spoken much of “legacy” in our journey through the Story. When you think of the legacy of family, faith, service and leadership provided by Ray and Patty Payne… well, you could hardly find a better model for that to which we might all aspire. Cyndi and I want to be like the Payne’s when we grow up!

This Sunday—as we honor Ray and Patty and all our veterans whose sacrifice provides to us a freedom of worship that millions in the world are literally dying for—may the Lord be blessed by our heartfelt gratitude to them… and to Him.

Pastor Mark

P.S. Last Sunday 120 kids attended Brad Henning’s talk on relationships and sexuality. But that’s only half of it! Every parent, grandparent and champion of kids ought to come this Sunday at 12:15pm in the Arena to hear Brad as he provides us with the tools necessary to help our young people stand strong in the Lord. Please come.