THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, July 20, 1995 TAG: 9507190187
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 16 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY TRUDY CUTHRELL, CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE: SUFFOLK LENGTH: Medium: 73 lines
BRAD BRADSHAW is a home-grown educator. He received his early education in Suffolk public schools and much of his spiritual training in the classrooms of Suffolk Christian Church.
After graduating from North Carolina State University, Bradshaw returned to his hometown, working in the educational system where he began. In December, he received his master's degree in secondary education from Old Dominion University.
Then, in June, he took a slight turn in his teaching career - resigning his teaching post after nine years to accept a new teaching and administrative role as Christian education director at Suffolk Christian.
``It's been an easy transition,'' said Bradshaw, 31. ``I feel like my years as a teacher will help me relate to young people more effectively. The thing I'm most excited about, I can still be a positive role model, as I was in the classroom, but now I can talk more openly about Christ and morals.''
Reflecting on his years in public schools, Bradshaw said, ``With 140 students every day, for just 45 minutes at a time, it's difficult to impact their individual lives. But now, working with small groups and one-on-one, I feel like I can have an impact and make a difference.''
Bradshaw will have a number of roles. As Christian education director, he'll supervise the Sunday school by ordering curriculum and materials and giving guidance and support as needed. He will also plan activities and programs for the church's three children's divisions and its seniors group.
The summer roster already includes activities such as youth trips to the Children's Museum in Portsmouth, a Tides game, Busch Gardens and a concert at Willett Hall for the seniors.
Bradshaw, has served in many leadership and board positions at Suffolk Christian. The church's professional staff also includes Dr. Bruce Havens, pastor; Talmadge Darden, music director; and Margaret Saunders, secretary.
``I see myself as a servant of the Lord,'' Bradshaw said. ``I'm here to provide whatever leadership and service the church needs.''
Bradshaw has compassion for today's young people. ``I see teens crying out for something that's missing in their lives, and I think the church can give them some answers,'' he said. ``Kids today don't have the same role models they used to, discipline and morals aren't taught at home or school like they once were . . . The media in general has desensitized youths to violence, teen pregnancy, drugs and alcohol abuse . . . There seems to be no controlling factor in their lives, no long range goals or central focus.''
Bradshaw's vision for Suffolk youths reaches beyond his own church. Eventually, he hopes to plan areawide events involving other Christian churches and youth groups from other denominations.
Saunders said, ``He's got a lot of good ideas, and everyone's very excited to have him.''
P.J. Fowler Jr., one of Bradshaw's former Sunday school teachers, noted, ``I have observed Brad's personal faith to be deep, vital and ever growing. He is a compassionate and caring person, and I believe his personal integrity is beyond question.''
In recommending Bradshaw to the Christian Education Search Committee, Fowler added, ``I am convinced God has called him to apply for the position .
One of Bradshaw's main supporters as he takes on his new ministry is his wife, Bethanne, public information officer for Suffolk Public Schools.
She also is involved in the programs of Suffolk Christian Church. The Bradshaws have two toddlers: Rachael, 2, and Matthew, 6 months. MEMO: RELIGION BRIEFS/ PAGE 18
ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by MICHAEL KESTNER
Brad Bradshaw is the new education director at Suffolk Christian
Church.
by CNB