I was privileged last year in being commissioned to paint a portrait of the late Bob Folger. While doing some research and talking to several people as to the man Bob Folger was, what impressed me the most was his desire to serve the church in any area. The church is a body and if the people apart of such an organization choose not to function as a whole, it cannot stand. I believe that part of the reason Cleveland Baptist has thrived throughout the years, is because of people like Bob Folger who exhibited a servants heart.
When my family first moved into our house, it was Bob Folger among others who helped us paint and finish rooms in our home. When my grandfather was sick with cancer, he visited and was an encouragement to both my grandparents. It is moments such as these that show the true servants heart, that was and still is the life blood of Cleveland Baptist Church.
As I worked through the features in his face, I began to see exact likenesses of his children and grandchildren. His heritage lives on through his daughter Vicky Hatfield who served on staff both at our school and church as well as his son Kevin Folger who is now the pastor of Cleveland Baptist. It has continued on through his grandchildren, many who serve in the ministry all across the country. The best thing you can do to inspire your children to serve God with their lives is to be an example. I believe Bob Folger was that example of a servant in the church. “All who have first given themselves to the Lord, should as speedily as possible also give themselves to the Lord’s people.” -Charles Spurgeon