Julie Cain Kendall is one of those uncommon people whose story is full circle. She is proud to say that Shallowford Presbyterian Church “raised me.” As a child of Shallowford, she recalls her Dad being an elder and her Mom working in the nursery. By high school she was deeply involved in the music program.
Julie shared, “The influence Shallowford had on my life as a teenager was significant. Bette and Bob Chambless modeled the way for loving sacred music and a devotion to service in the church.”
But going off to college became a separation that would last awhile. Marriage, raising children and moving away from Atlanta followed their usual path. Upon finally returning to Atlanta 35 years later, she began looking for another church — besides Shallowford. Several left her ambivalent. But long-time friends began urging her to return to the campus she once called home. Their steady, happy pressure finally worked!
Julie was brought back to the familiar feeling of Shallowford, and knew this was a community that built both joy and comfort for her personally. “When Lynn Mathis chases you down the sidewalk after church to say hello and welcome you back to Shallowford, it’s hard to not feel welcomed and loved,” Julie said lovingly. She wanted to be with others in this community, whether as a member or as a leader. She felt comfortable even having her faith tested as she learned more about it.
Julie’s participation at Shallowford gives her satisfaction, both as someone who serves and now as one whose granddaughter is in the children’s ministry and attends Shallowford Presbyterian School. She likes to appraise how we minister to various populations, whether gender, ethnic or the older population. She wants her morning service as a greeter to communicate the sincerity of Shallowford’s warm welcome as soon as they come in the door!
“Shallowford really does welcome all…I have witnessed many visitors arrive with a questioning look and leave with a smile. The Shallowford impact is real and is lived out every day.”
