By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

PELHAM—The Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce hosted the 17th annual Prayer Breakfast at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena on Nov. 25. The morning’s featured speaker was Tony Cooper, executive director of the Jimmie Hale Mission.

“It’s an opportunity for the business people to pause and reflect on the things we all need to be thankful for,” GSCCC CEO Kirk Mancer said of the annual event.

Founded in 1944, the Jimmie Hale Mission is a ministry that seeks to help those in need through services such shelters for men, women and children, recovery programs, learning programs and afterschool Bible groups for children.

Cooper joined the Jimmie Hale Mission as executive director in 1990. Cooper shared his message of finding success through faith during the Nov. 25 breakfast.

“When we found out that it was his 25th year, we thought that it would be appropriate to share his message on steps to success,” Mancer said.

“When I think of success, I think of you and I living up to potential… utilizing God-given strengths,” Cooper said.

Cooper listed his steps to having a successful life as conviction, making the right choices, considering and taking responsibility for the consequences of your life choices and a commitment to change.

A strong faith-based foundation is crucial to having a successful life and reaching potential, Cooper explained, as good choices and good consequences will follow from faith-based convictions.

Cooper said the Jimmie Hale Mission often helps people back onto their feet; however, this cannot be done without a commitment to change.

“You need to take responsibility for the consequences of the choices you make,” Cooper said.

Once a solid foundation of convictions is built, success should follow, Cooper explained.

“Build your life on a good, solid foundation, a foundation of faith,” Cooper said. “Strong enough to withstand the storms of life.”