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Mrs. Susan Harding
Cordova Community Christian Center
Box 713
Cordova, AK 99574
Work Phone: 907-424-3465
Email: sharding@ctcak.net
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The support of American Baptists is felt and appreciated by Susan Harding, director of the Cordova Community Christian Center. “Gifts received through the America for Christ Offering allow us to reach out for Christ to children and adults in Cordova,” Harding says. “And donations of time and needed materials through Volunteers In Mission and White Cross help make it possible for our programs to continue.”
Located in a remote, commercial fishing town in Alaska, the Cordova Christian Center serves the town’s population of 2,500 people (which swells to 5,000–6,000 during the summer). The geographic isolation and transient nature of the community contribute to a lack of social connections, loneliness, depression, and alcoholism among adults and teens.
In response to the needs of the community, the ministry of the Christian Center has evolved uniquely over the years. “We continue to have a preschool and many other programs for kids, but other programs have changed,” she says. “We no longer have a restaurant ministry, but rather focus on special events to which the community is invited. We have seen this attract many new people in town, and they have responded positively.”
In addition, the ministry offers a variety of social and evangelistic activities for children and teens. Kids of the Kingdom allows children in kindergarten through sixth grade to meet weekly for a hamburger supper, singing, Bible stories, crafts, and games. Teens gather weekly for Sunday evening supper and Bible study as well as contemporary worship. Vacation Bible School continues to be a well-attended, exciting week every summer.
“The most rewarding part of my work here has always been reaching people for Christ,” says Harding. “I am excited about Jesus Christ and about living for Him.” Her favorite verse comes to mind whenever she sees the many eagles that live in the beautiful mountains God created in Alaska: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31).
Harding has been at the Christian Center since 1975. She was married to Richard Harding until he passed away in July 2008. He had been pastor of Cordova Community Baptist Church until his retirement, when he became assistant pastor to their son, John. Now serving as church pastor, John is married to Piper, and they have two children. Harding, also the parent of an adult daughter, Nancy, has seven grandchildren.
EDUCATION:
- M.A. in secondary education, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA;
- B.A. in social sciences, University of California, Riverside, CA
EXPERIENCE:
- High school teacher for pregnant teens, Jurupa Unified School District, Riverside, CA;
- Elementary School Teacher, Riverside Unified School District, Riverside, CA
IMPORTANT DATES:
- Became part of the Cordova Community Christian Center ministry in 1975.
- Commissioned an American Baptist home missionary: June 1976
- Birthday: October 16
HOME MISSION HIGHLIGHTS:
Thanks to the support of American Baptist Women, the Cordova Community Christian Center can better serve their community. White Cross donations in the last year have included basic materials used in children's activities, craft supplies, and bazaar items.
Individuals and groups through Volunteers in Mission regularly work on mission projects that support the ministry at Cordova.
To become involved in the work at the Cordova Community Christian Center or to make a tax-deductible contribution in support of the ministry, please e-mail Susan Harding at rharding@ctcak.net or call her at (907) 424-3465.
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