Evelyn Coleman Dove: When God Calls You, Answer
Initially, as I read the Email from Tekela Whitfield, I thought "What a pretty name." I asked her for the meaning, and I complimented her on the name. As we communicated over the next week or so, I learned that she is very professional and forthright. As she audited my property for the Lenoir County Tax Department, she decided to withdraw the tax exemption for PathChoice Ministry. I had to pay respect to her decision even though I had thought otherwise for years. PathChoice has a tax-exempt EIN and has operated since 1992. I write a column and provide food, clothing, counseling and a place for restoration and respite at reduced rent or free. I thought that was enough. But a heads-up to others, services have to be held also, such as the ones we held before I fell and fractured my hip. One of our biggest projects was featured in a photo-story as we donated items from a clothes drive to Jasper Newborn at the Homeless Shelter years ago.
The good news is that she caused me to examine my calling and reflect on the changes made when I fell. Back then, I focused on my health and tried to get better. I was told it would take a year to heal and it surely did. Then I moved sideways instead of forward, and I continue to receive treatment to this day. Yet, I have been happy that I could continue with the mission of PathChoice Ministry. Back when my Aunt Eunice Hazel Dove was living, she and Louise Cox and others would meet for our regular inspirational services and meals. Aunt Hazel, as I called her, was a fiery preacher and filled with the scriptures. She was a walking encyclopedia of where to find Bible stories when we couldn't exactly remember.
Her birthday is in November. I believe she would be pleased that upon examination, I know it is time to stop wallowing in pain and pity and do my calling. I can't wait to tell Gloria, Wanda, and others. I am led to continue the mission of PathChoice Ministry though I have to pay taxes. And I am grateful that Tekela Whitfield got my attention in such a kind and gentle manner. God's ways are not our ways. 2026 will be a new beginning. For prayer or counseling, reach out through http://www.pathchoicepastoralcounseling.weebly.com.
Evelyn Dove-Coleman established PathChoice Ministry in 1992 and can be reached at EvDove03@yahoo.com.
Neuse News is a locally-owned small business startup in downtown Kinston. Our goal is to provide free, hyper-local news to Lenoir, Greene and Jones counties. The kind of news our grandparents read in a format fit for today's times.
We provide this by having supportive advertisers and we encourage you to click on their ads, shop with them, and eat with them. Every bit of financial support is important to help us sustain free, hyper-local news.
Please consider supporting Neuse News with as little as $5 one-time or via a monthly option. Every little bit helps us, help you.
