Oct. 1, 2008 — In honor of the second formal observance of the National Day of Remembrance, the local POMC chapter (Parents of Murdered Children) hosted a gathering at the Justice Center in Grayson last week.
Ron Cole, who is a pastor at Extreme Life Fellowship in Lexington, was the keynote speaker. His message was for survivors to remember their loved ones but not become hardened by their experiences.
“God didn’t do this,” Cole said. “It wasn’t God’s intention or plan that they would lose their loved ones in the way that they’ve lost them. But the hope is there is peace through having a personal relationship with the Lord.”
Christine Netherton attended the event in support of her sister, Tracy Burke, who was killed on Sept. 11, 2007. Burke also is survived by three children.
Netherton said she does not disagree with Pastor Cole’s message.
“I go to church, so I know that side of it, but it’s still hard when you see the kids,” Netherton said. “I still have trouble with that.”
Netherton has been a part of POMC for three months. She said being part of a support group is a positive influence on her.
POMC was founded 25 yrs. ago by Robert and Charlotte Hullinger after the murder of their 19-year-old daughter, Lisa. The Northeastern Kentucky Chapter was started April 12, 2005 by Ann Bauers, following the July 11, 2003 murder of her son.
Barbara Hall appreciates POMC’s efforts to help families with grief support. She came to the Justice Center to show respect for her stepdaughter, Jennifer Ison and granddaughters, Shannon and Marisa.
“I just hope that nobody never, never has to go through this,” Hall said. “I know the only person that’s helping us get through this is God. Sometimes you wonder where He’s at, but He’s there.”
Daryl and Sharlene Williams also attended in honor of Shannon and Marisa Ison, who were their granddaughters. Daryl said the only thing that helps him cope is his religion.
“You have to rely on the Lord,” Williams said. “You can’t make it on your own. I’ve tried that and been there. It doesn’t work.”
Pastor Cole said religion is the key for survivors of murder to move on with their lives.
“If we don’t go on we’re not really doing the memory of our loved one honor,” Cole said. “We’re caught in the loop and I’m sure they wouldn’t want that.”
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