bill askew

It's unlikely that you could enter the back doors at First Baptist Church on Sunday morning and Bill Askew wouldn't be there to shake your hand and say hello.

But acting as the unofficial greeter for the church isn't Askew's only job. He serves as a deacon, collects the money for the fellowship meal each Wednesday night, unlocks the doors each Sunday morning and until recently served on the church's property and space committee.

Few of his duties around First Baptist Church are appointed, except by Askew himself. He's been a greeter for seven or eight years now.

"I just enjoy doing it," he said. "I like meeting the people at the back door."

Askew stands watch with coffee mug in hand inside the glass-enclosed vestibule by 8:40 a.m. each Sunday. Sunday school classes begin at 9:30 a.m. and worship at 10:45 a.m.

He swings the doors open as couples enter, shaking hands and saying hello. For some of the elderly members, he helps walk them up the three steps and inside the building.

Since Askew has been greeting members and visitors, he's become a fixture. For some members of the church, seeing Askew is part of their weekly tradition, said the Rev. Jay White, pastor at the church.

Having a greeter, "adds a personal flavor," he said.

Some people who now use other entrances to the church go out of their way to stop by to say hello to Askew. "They come by just to let me know they're here," he said.

And on the few occasions when he isn't there, Askew finds a substitute.

Askew, 76, is a life-long member of the church. A World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy, he also volunteers with the FISH food pantry.

Askew and his wife, Iona, have four children, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.