What's your favorite thing about working here?
The children are so cool!

What's the funniest thing that has happened to you here?
Helping with the missions project for Vacation Bible School was great. I was in character as Farmer Frannie to encourage the kids to bring in their coins to raise funds for the Heifer Project. Each day, they got an update as to how many animals they could purchase with the money that had been turned in. The last day was quite a collection, and they were able to purchase a water buffalo. The kids went absolutely nuts with excitement!

What's your favorite children’s activity here at the church?
Camp Shalom is my favorite. We're outside at Umstead Park, and it is great to see the kids as they grow from campers to youth leaders … both in faith and in physical stature.

Where were you born and raised?
In the mountains of North Carolina – Waynesville/Lake Junaluska area.

Where did you go to school?
N.C. State  - Go Wolfpack!

How many children do you have?
Two grown children: Stephanie and Stuart, Jr.

Any pets?
An incredibly good-looking and intelligent collie named Spencer.

What is most important about your work with children at Edenton Street? What drives you? What is your passion?
It is such a privilege, and at the same time, a tremendous responsibility to work with children. Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them. For the kingdom belongs to such as these."  Parents trust the church to keep their precious ones safe and to teach them God’s word.  It is a dual ministry to the children (they are like sponges, eager to learn) and the parents (how can I raise a godly child?).

What two people have most influenced you?
My mom and Dave Bevacqua.

What are your favorite books, movies or songs?
Jesus Calling, a devotion book. My favorite movie is Apollo 13, and I listen to Christian radio.

How do you like to spend your free time?
Outside.

If you weren't working with the children at Edenton Street, what would your profession be?
My education dealt with numbers, and I do enjoy crunching them from time to time, but I have always been connected to children through church or PTA or tutoring. That would not stop.

What's your favorite food?
Just one?!?! I never get tired of pizza.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?
Cafe Mocha

What did your parents call you when you were in trouble?
Me, in trouble? I was a perfect child! As most parents in the universe, mine called me by my full name when I was in trouble, with double exclamation points at the end.

E-mail Ruthie.