News Summary
The Johns Creek community reflects on the life of Christine Barker Haggai, a talented musician whose impactful service and commitment to community left a lasting legacy. Through her mesmerizing voice and dedication to uplifting others, she became a key figure in local church activities and community projects. Christine’s journey from a musical prodigy to a beloved community member serves as an inspiration for many.
Johns Creek Remembers a Musical Legacy: Christine Barker Haggai
It is with a heavy heart that our community in Johns Creek, Georgia, reflects on the remarkable life of Christine Barker Haggai, who passed away at the age of 95. Her story is one of talent, dedication, and service to others, carving a path that many can look up to and aspire towards.
A Musical Prodigy
Christine was born on June 21, 1924, in the charming town of Bristol, Virginia. From an early age, she showcased an extraordinary gift with her voice. By just age 13, her exceptional soprano talent was already recognized, leading to her conducting a weekly musical program on a local radio station, WOPI. It was the start of a beautiful journey in music that would eventually touch many lives.
After soaking in all the musical education she could at Sullins College, Christine’s career began to flourish. She won the regional Hour of Charm contest in 1943, which gained her recognition and a taste of national attention. Though she was offered a prestigious scholarship to the illustrious Juilliard School of Music, she instead chose to attend the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. This decision was part of her commitment to preparing for a life dedicated to church and community service.
Life and Love
During her years at Moody, Christine met her future husband, John Edmund Haggai. Together, they tied the knot and began a life steeped in service and spirituality. John went on to serve as a pastor at various churches, including the well-respected Woodland Park Baptist Church in Chattanooga. Christine effortlessly complemented her husband’s ministry, using her beautiful voice to uplift congregational services and radio broadcasts.
The Haggai International Influence
In 1969, John founded Haggai International, which focused on equipping national Christian leaders worldwide. Christine stood steadfastly by John’s side, playing an essential role in this influential ministry, impacting lives around the globe through music and leadership.
Embracing Challenges
The couple welcomed a son, Johnny, in 1950. Tragically, Johnny suffered from cerebral palsy due to a birth injury and passed away in 1975. This profound loss was a challenging chapter in Christine’s life, yet she emerged with a newfound dedication to community and service. She came to be deeply involved in several local projects, becoming a beacon of hope and support for many.
Contributions to the Community
Christine was a devoted member of the community and earned the respect of many through her various roles. She chaired the annual Northside Woman’s Club Prayer Breakfast for four years and also served as Chaplain for the Atlanta Chapter of Freedom’s Foundation. Her volunteering spirit extended to the Georgia Baptist Medical Center, where she offered her time to help those in need.
In addition to her community service, Christine maintained an active presence at her church. She taught adult Sunday School classes and actively participated in music programs, making a lasting impact on the lives she touched through faith and song.
Farewell to a Beloved Figure
Christine leaves behind her husband, John, with whom she shared an incredible 74 years of love and partnership, along with a brother-in-law and an abundance of friends and relatives. A memorial service to celebrate her life is scheduled for August 16, 2019, at 2 p.m. at Johns Creek Baptist Church, where friends and community members can gather to honor her memory. A private burial will follow at Arlington Memorial Park in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Christine may consider making a memorial gift to Haggai International or contributing through its website. Her legacy of music and community service will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on all who knew her.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Christine Haggai – Well-Known Soprano
- Legacy: Johnny Barker Obituary
- Tribute Archive: Mona Elizabeth Barker Obituary
- Farris Funeral Service: Johnny Lee Canter Obituary
- Tribute Archive: Isaac Omar Barker Obituary
- Wikipedia: Christian Music
- Google Search: Christine Barker Haggai
- Google Scholar: Christian Music History
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Church Music
- Google News: Christine Barker Haggai
