It wasn’t a sight you see every day.
More than 60 people lined up, some reaching forward to touch the house, others touching the shoulder of the person in front of them and all of them with their heads bowed in unison as the newly built house of the Schantereal Reynolds family was blessed.
The event marked the conclusion of a long journey for Reynolds — a journey that began with her selection as the next Habitat for Humanity homeowner and concluded with the blessing of the home at the dedication ceremony last week.
Except that it is really just the beginning of a new journey.
“The blessing of the home is an essential part of what we do,” said Melanie Davis, Ardmore Habitat for Humanity vice-chair. “It serves as a reminder that this is just the beginning, that through hard work, determination and faith, there are more good things to come. Our mission is not merely to build houses, but to build homes and improve life circumstances, to empower individuals to make their life’s path a matter of choice.”
Reynolds spent the last few months holding down a full-time job to support her family and going to school full-time, while also working alongside volunteers to build her home. While the last few months have been exhausting ones for Reynolds, last Thursday marked a turning point in her life that will change not only her own future, but also that of her children.
“The most difficult part of this process for me was putting in my hours working on the house while working, going to school and taking care of my family,” Reynolds said. “I’m exhausted, but it was all worth it. To go to sleep each night in a home that I own — not rent — and that I helped build with my own hands, it is beyond words.”
“Why I chose to get involved in this organization is that it rewards people like Schantereal, people who work hard to make their own way and are willing to do what it takes to improve their lives,” Davis said. “Habitat homeowners do not get handouts. They purchase their homes at a reduced rate through no-interest loans. They help themselves, and quite often, they are the first in line to help work on the next Habitat house.”
Dr. Rick Baggett, First Presbyterian Church, led the blessing on the home.
