The Corpus Christi school board trustees announced that one of their three new schools will be named to honor Brother Harold Branch, retired pastor of St. John Baptist Church in Corpus Christi.I think it was a wonderful choice. This man has given a lifetime of service to kids and adults through his church and community.
I cannot claim him as a close friend, though it would be a privilege to do so. We have crossed trails a few times through the years. He led his church to become one of the first black Baptist churches to be an active part of the Texas Baptist Convention. They were also active in the Corpus Christi Baptist Association.
My best memory with him was a delightful afternoon at Zephyr Baptist Encampment on lake Corpus Christi. We had each planned to spend some free time down on the lake- shore fishing, the old-fashioned way.... cork and worms. When I arrived at the most convenient spot, Brother Branch was already there. We shared bait and growing up. Though from different settings, many of our experiences were the same. He is a man who loved the Lord and preached the Gospel. He also gave tireless energy to improving the welfare and education of those born in challenging circumstances. It is good to see such a man honored in this way.
