By the time Choice Watson, former South Carolina Baptist pastor and director of missions, retired in 1997, he had built a library of more than 1,200 books on religion and ministry-related subjects.  The collection included his wife’s books on preschool, children, and clowning ministry. He decided to donate his library to North Greenville University because of his belief in the school’s mission.

The campus was made aware of the book giveaway, and the library — and over 100 students, faculty and staff — took advantage of the generous donation.

“It was his hope that the books would continue to be used as resources for ministry,” said assistant vice president for student life, and Watson’s son, Billy Watson. The collection arrived at North Greenville in 75 boxes, Watson reported.

Choice Watson’s life mission was to spread the gospel message of Christ to anyone he came in contact with. He dedicated over a half century of his life to prepare for his calling to ministry.

“His desire is for the university, faculty, and especially students to benefit from his books and continue to use them to learn and prepare to spread the gospel of Christ to a lost and hurting world,” said Watson. “He was very excited that so many students were able to select books.”

Watson pastored for 25 years. He served at Lyman First Baptist (associate pastor), Calvary Baptist in Lyman, Mitford Baptist in Great Falls, Bath First Baptist, Arcadia Baptist in Spartanburg, Wayside Baptist in Startex, Mount Pleasant Baptist in Landrum, and 10 years as director of missions in the North Spartan Baptist Association. He and his wife, Grace, were also heavily involved in Disaster Relief.

He is a graduate of Luther Rice Seminary, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and is a 30-year Army and National Guard veteran.

Eden Crain, a Christian Studies major from Pelzer, is beyond grateful for the privilege of getting to take some books from his collection.

“These books represent years of study, dedication to the Lord, sermon preparation, love for others, and hard work. Each book is filled with wisdom that cannot help but benefit all those who take the opportunity to read them,” Crain said.

Another Christian studies student, Ethan McConnell from Marietta is also thankful for the investment Rev. Watson is making into his ministry.

“At the end of the day, all believers and brothers and sisters in Christ. There is a special bond, timeless and caring between those called to ministry. Even for those who never knew one another. I look forward to one day passing his books on to another young person pursuing the call.”

In other words, Choice Watson’s books has grown feet and wings — and have landed all over. The university thanks him for his generosity.

— LaVerne Howell is director of communications at North Greenville University.