Ring the Bells raises money for Habitat for Humanity
COSHOCTON – The sound of bells were heard in the fellowship hall of the Coshocton Presbyterian Church as they hosted the 15th annual Ring the Bells for Habitat.
“All of you here are saints because we’re gathering here together to listen to this beautiful music and take up a collection for Habitat,” said Rolanda Hunt, director of the bell choir at Central Christian Church.
Five bell choirs participated in the fundraising event: Asbury hand bell choir of Grace United Methodist Church, directed by Leslie Dawson; Ringspiration Choir of Central Christian Church, directed by Hunt; Westminster Ringers of the Presbyterian Church, directed by Charles Snyder; Merrie Ringers of West Lafayette United Methodist Church, directed by Jacque McPherson; and Geneva Hand Bell Choir of the Presbyterian Church, directed by Snyder. Directing for Snyder was Kelly Kendall and Erin Jobes.
After the first three hand bell choirs performed, Carl Wilkie, board president of Habitat, spoke on the updates and projects where Habitat is currently working. He specially thanked John Addy, supervisor, for all of his dedication. Addy is currently working on his fifth house. Wilkie also thanked all the many volunteers who have dedicated many hours to help Habitat achieve its goal.
“It’s very rewarding knowing you’re making a home for someone,” said Ed Mizer, volunteer. “It’s very heartwarming, and the Lord wants us to build homes for people. This is what I love to do.”
House No. 15 is scheduled for completion on Nov. 1, and House No. 1 is currently being refurbished due to the original owner’s passing. Wilkie announced that a single mother will be moving in to House No. 1 after the renovations have been completed.
Habitat is also working with United Way, which has set aside a $12,500 matching fund. All the money raised during the event went toward those funds. The Habitat office will also be moving to 84 Pine St., which is also where ReStore is located. Habitat still needs $25,000 to complete both House No. 15 and renovating House No. 1 this year.
“I am in awe of the musical talents that have gathered here today,” said Wilkie. “Thank you all you saints for marching in here today. I really appreciate the moving bell choir music here today as we approach the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus.”
Over the past 14 years, Ring the Bells for Habitat has raised more than $10,000.
beth@coshoctoncountybeacon.com
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