The phrase that comes to mind when attempting to describe Debbie is, “Been there, done that!” Not only did she grow up uniquely God-centered and in an others-oriented environment, she has also suffered and overcome significant struggles of her own. Debbie’s life story reflects the powerful change that can happen when God is placed first in our lives. Such experiences, in addition to her infectious personality, make her a perfect fit for her role at BRCC as Director of Celebrate Recovery and the Benevolence Ministry.

Debbie grew up the daughter of loving missionaries and oldest sibling to six sisters. Her parents showed her through faith what it means to surrender to Christ no matter where it leads. Although she describes her childhood home as a “truly godly home,” it was far from ordinary. When she was 12 years old, her family moved to the Republic of Palau for four years, then resided in Florida for two years, and she graduated high school while living in Guam.

She has been married to David since December 31, 1987, and has four children: Nathan (married to Jennifer), Daniel, Suzie, and Patrick. She is also the proud grandmother of Macie Elise Roberts. Debbie loves her family dearly and considers her husband, David, her inspiration. His walk with Christ is unwavering, his desire to serve God is unfaltering, and his growth is undeniable.

Debbie describes two of her most memorable and defining moments:

Living in the South Pacific in all its glory and beauty, singing “With Christ in the Vessel we can smile at the Storm” with my sisters while in the midst of a storm in the ocean.

(Little did she know that Christ was preparing her to endure her own storm.)

Watching my husband being escorted away in an orange jumpsuit and asking, “Oh, God, what am I going to do?” Then watching David come home 4½ years later, sober and on fire for God. And now watching God use us to share God’s HOPE to others through the ministry of Celebrate Recovery. I have witnessed God do things and change lives that only can be attributed to His power and grace.

The thing she enjoys most about being a part of Blue Ridge Community Church is that lives are being changed, moment by moment, through the healing power of Christ. “The ‘heart of prayer’ powers everything we do here.” She sees BRCC as a place that has always been open to God’s guidance and not afraid to do whatever it takes to deliver God’s salvation and hope to a hopeless world.

celebraterecovery@blue-ridge.org
434.525.7481 ext 128