Barbara Cruzan Green in the Robe of Achievement, 2003
Barbara ‘Barb’ Green was selected as the 2003 recipient of the Robe of Achievement. She set about whatever she had to do with a good attitude and saw it to completion. She raised a family, worked in many areas of church life, and served as General Conference General Recording Secretary for a number of years, as well as being active in Women’s Interests at Conference. No matter the event, she was one of the first to arrive and one of the last to leave, and gave of herself throughout, whether by scrubbing dishes in the church kitchen or in prayer at 6:00 am prayer meetings.
She was a very loving and caring woman, quickly at the side of anyone in need, whether the need is physical, spiritual, or emotional. Year after year she taught Sabbath School, served in the Women’s Circle and on the annual Turkey Supper Committee. After her children left the nest and when retired from her many years as a nurse, she was able to concentrate even more on the health of her church family. She began serving as Parish Nurse to the church. Many of her waking hours and even some of her sleeping hours were spent caring for her congregation. She made hospital visits, transported people to doctor’s appointments, attending with them when needed to be another set of ears. She visited shut-ins, coordinated blood pressure clinics and CPR training, distributes medical information and assists in filling out paper work and sorting out medical issues. Regardless of the type of need, she did whatever she could to meet it, for adults and children of all ages.
She often was seen counseling, advising, and teaching both formally and informally. She taught CPR and worked with student nurses in the community. She taught Sabbath School for many years, chaired committees, led a number of Bible studies, worked in the AWANA program, chaired the Ministry Team and served on the Leadership Team. She also served as a mentor for the SCSC program. She was a steadfast prayer warrior, constantly lifting people up before the Lord.
Barb’s home was often full of family, friends, and even strangers. Many people enjoyed her hospitality while in town for denominational meetings and training. She enjoyed house meetings, Bible studies, and guests dropping by for a visit.
She raised three children who have grown to love the Lord through the example of their parents. She had six grandchildren (at the time of this award) who love the time they spent with grandma and grandpa. She was also a surrogate mom to many young people she opened her arms and heart to through the years.