In November of 2004, Debbie Layman and Glenn Otterbacher arrived in Winston-Salem, infant in arms, to begin a new life here. Now, twenty years later, they are the proud parents of two impressive young adults and are celebrating two decades of life and ministry at Highland Presbyterian Church!

Throughout her years as our Associate Pastor, Debbie’s compassionate and loving spirit have left a lasting impression. Like ripples across a pond, the impact of her loving care has touched innumerable people over these years, making a real difference in so many lives. Whether in the pulpit or the classroom, leading a book study or a committee meeting, Debbie’s deep interest in and care for the people of Highland and beyond shine through. Clearly, God is working through her to bring good to all of us.

Debbie’s employment anniversary was this past November 5th and so by tradition we should have celebrated her then. However, at that point Debbie said that with so much happening already in the life of the church, between Highland’s 75th anniversary celebration and the busy season of Advent, that her own recognition could wait. At last it is time to focus on her!

Please plan to attend the Souper Bowl of Caring lunch following church on Sunday, February 9th. The Youth will be collecting donations and food items to support City with Dwellings and the Moore School Food Pantry. Because these are causes dear to Debbie’s heart, we have chosen this time to celebrate her too! It will be a joyful day of helping our community and honoring our beloved pastor.

In addition, be watching for information to come soon about a spring service project in Debbie’s honor. This will be an opportunity for Highlanders to put our hands, feet, maybe even our backs into some work that will make a difference for others.

It has been Highland’s practice for major work anniversaries to invite the congregation to contribute towards a financial gift for the honoree. If you would like to show your appreciation for Debbie in this way, you have several options. You may mail a check to the church, to the attention of Joy Hohmann, or place a check in the offering plate. In either case, please indicate “Debbie’s anniversary” in the memo line. You may also donate online:  click here for member access, or here to give as a guest. When selecting a fund, please choose “Transfer Account” in the dropdown menu and in the optional menu, type “Debbie”. To give via smart phone, you may text the word highland to 73256 or scan the QR code below. Please be certain that the church receives your gift by Wednesday, February 5th. A single check for the entire donated amount will be presented to Debbie at the lunch on the 9th.

Thank you for joining with the Personnel Committee to give thanks to God as we show love and appreciation to Debbie for her twenty years of ministry with us! We’ll see you at the lunch on February 9th.

Gratefully,

The Personnel Committee

Garry Russ, Chair; Judy Bass, 2024 Chair; John Barksdale, Ken Chalk, Miles Abernethy, Kristine Elliott and Cathy Shaffner