Albert’s North Carolina Connection 7-13-24
I relocated to Greensboro in 1994, and shortly after, Albert also relocated to Greensboro. We became members of a church in Ruffin, North Carolina; we were still close together wherever we went. We went through a school of hard knocks together, and sometimes we were temporarily separated, but in spite of what would come up between us, the Lord had His hand on us- He had a plan. Thank You, Jesus!
At the church in Ruffin, I was the pastor’s personal driver, and we went to visit the sick in various towns, nursing homes, and hospitals. At that time Albert was a bus driver for Greensboro Transit Authority (GTA), and on his days off, he traveled to different places with the pastor and me. We loved our pastor and our times with him were enjoyable.
Also, the pastor had a friend who owned an auto dealership in Reidsville where we often fellowshipped with other pastors (I was the only female). When these leaders heard Albert expound on the Word of God, they said, “Man, where did you get that kind of knowledge?” You need to be teaching in seminary” What a great compliment coming from pastors from a ‘quote on quote’ lay person, or someone who is not licensed or ordained in ministry.
The truth is, God had already ordained Albert and I have never heard anyone break down the Bible like he did. I really am blessed to have sat under a true scholar of the Word for 33 years.
After being at the church in Ruffin for five years, we joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Greensboro, when I became associate minister (leader of the evangelism class). Albert taught Sunday school and the evangelism class. He also taught at my mother's house, and in Burlington, NC.
Albert Burke was a phenomenal teacher and a loving, kind hearted, humble, but awesome man of God, despite his imperfections, as we all have.
Later we both moved on separately this time when it came to being members of the same church. However, we were still closely bonded. A few years later, I relocated to New Jersey. The rest of the story will be shared tomorrow, Lord willing.
Ps. This miniseries about Albert is to encourage all those who knew him, and for his family in different parts of the country who was not with him like I was. Also, Albert’s legacy will continue through his teaching that will be published; that was his and my aspirations.
Next- Albert, an Asset to Burnett Ministries
God bless you~
Betty A. Burnett ~ burnettministries.org
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