Bittick marks 25 years with Denton Association_122203

Posted: 12/19/03

Bittick marks 25 years with Denton Association

DENTON–In the modern mobile society, long-term employees are rare. Long-term volunteers may be rarer still, but Janie Bittick has served Denton Baptist Assocition as its associational clerk 25 years.

“I really love it,” she said. “Staying after it for 25 years, I've gotten to meet and know a lot of saints–a few sinners, but mostly saints–and they have inspired me greatly on my journey.”

The experience also has given her a bit of historical perspective, as far as the work of the association goes.

“I've been given a sense of history, seeing how the vision for the association has progressed and been realized over the years,” she said. “I've really enjoyed seeing all the new churches that have become a part of the association over the years and watching the ways the older churches have kept at it and continued to minister to their communities.”

Having someone stay in that position for an extended term is a definite boon to the association, said Director of Missions Gary Loudermilk. “Consistency would be the No. 1 benefit, and improved record keeping over the years would be another,” he said.

Bittick, who also has served her church, Southmont Baptist in Denton, as clerk, helps the association by offering instruction for church clerks.

“The most important thing is to be accurate and to remember that you learn by your experience,” she said.