Sarah Flanders, the recipient of the 2009 Adam W. Bishop Scholarship, is a gifted girl with an intense love for others. Her love for the Lord and desire to be used by Him are evident in everything she does, as well as in the legacy she has left behind at NCA. Although Sarah attended the school for only three years, in that time she was responsible for starting a girls' Bible study, coordinating an annual event called ‘Fan the Flame’ and heading up a community outreach program in the Nashua area. She is motivated by her never ending thirst for God and her compassion for those who are suffering or sad.

Peer comments included:

• “I can go to her for everything and I can trust that she will help me through it..."
• “She devotes her time to others..."
• “She is always on the lookout for those people who are in need..."
• “Sarah does a good job of finding the overlooked people and befriending them..."
• “She makes an effort to get to know you... She doesn’t seek popularity.”

Sarah’s parents recognized her intense love towards others as early as two years old. They agreed that she is a constant encouragement to others and were extremely honored that their daughter was chosen for this award. They said, “She is one of the most determined and disciplined young people we have ever known.”
BIO: Sarah loves little children. She plans to major in elementary education at Montreat College in North Carolina and would love to be a second grade teacher one day.

Journal entry: August 9th, 2006

That’s my birthday. There are not too many traditions in my family involving birthdays. But, for as long as I can remember--until recently--there was one thing I could count on for my birthday. Adam always gave me a flower. I really don’t know what started the tradition. But, it was one of those things you accept in life--and take for granted (like siblings and parents and really great friends). You just get used to it happening--or those people being around. That is what it was like with my yearly flower from Adam. Something endearing--something I loved--but something I took for granted.  My 18th birthday came and went--without a gift or flower from Adam, if I recall.

He kept telling me that he had something special--and it was on its way. So, I waited--and at last, on a Sunday in August, Adam told me that he had my present. I wish I could remember if it was wrapped, or what he said when he gave it to me. Whatever the introduction, I soon found myself holding a rectangular blue box. Inside was a beautiful gold rose--its petals and leaves beautifully colored. I have no idea how much Adam paid for it--but it was one of the most elegant birthday presents I have ever received. He told me that it was a flower that would be around “forever”--even after he left for college and all. I didn’t understand why he couldn’t give me real flowers anymore--my birthday’s in August! College students are usually home in August. And, besides, Adam used to always tell me, “I’m a cousin, you can’t get rid of me!” Why did I need a flower that would last longer?

So--it was a couple weeks ago now, when I came across the rose. It has spent the last few years hanging out on my book shelf. I had gotten used to it being there--just like I’d gotten used to having Adam around. I remembered what he’d said--about not always being around to give flowers. I didn’t understand in August of my 18th year how true that would be. The rose seems far more beautiful now than I’d ever realized. It’s like that with people too--people like Adam. I never realized how very much I loved him--until he was gone. So--I’ve been looking at my rose--and thinking of Adam. And, appreciating both more.

If you have a memory, quote, poem or thought of Adam that you would like to share for future newsletters please mail them to Debbie Bishop, 304 Poor Farm Road, Weare, NH 03281 or email them to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it