Origin of the Angels . . .
In 1993, Paula Joslin and a group of long-time girlfriends decided to
open a shop in Arab, Alabama, called "Somewhere In Time". Original art work by
artists Ann Philips, Betty Hamilton, Jean Cassady, and others was displayed. An
illustration from a book depicting an angel in tattered clothes and unlaced
combat boots intrigued the girls and prompted Paula to suggest that the group
write their own book.
So in 1994, the group was named The B-Team Angels and the title of
the book was The B-Team Angels' Quest. The group was so into its theme
that Paula made basic angel dresses for everyone for the next "get away" trip to
Florida and brought along accessories to add glitz and sparkle. When these
outfits were worn to restaurants, questions like "Who are you?" and "What are
you about?" had to be answered.
Upon their return to Arab, Paula and Kay Jennings continued wearing their
angel attire about town as they gathered photographs for the book. Before long
they realized that there was something about their appearance that brought cheer
and laughter to people, especially the elderly.
As they began visiting senior citizens and nursing homes, Paula knew that
God was calling her and her zany friends to a ministry of joy and
encouragement. Throughout their thirty plus years of friendship, their
experiences had been preparing them for this time.
The seven original B-Team Angels were Paula, Kay, Sandra McNabb,
Bonnie York Isbell, Jean Cassady, Nell Bynum, and Gini Caldwell, who began
their ministry knowing only that God had called them to spread the Good News of
the Gospel in a very unique way. Little did they realize that the B-Team
Angels were destined to receive national recognition and that chapters of
their organization would be founded in other cities and states.
As more "angelic beings" joined the group, they began traveling throughout
the Tennessee Valley as well as other parts of Alabama. The media began to take
notice of this unique "happiness ministry." The group was featured on the
For Goodness Sake segment of WHNT-TV 19 in Huntsville and in local newspaper
articles.
The B-Team Angels established the Earth Angel Award, which is
presented to a deserving individual who has been nominated by letter for acts of
kindness and generosity. Channel 19 and The Arab Tribune jointly promote
the award presentations each month honoring the Earth Angel Award
recipient.
In 1999, Family Circle magazine published an article and picture
featuring the B-Team Angels. Also in 1999, the Arab Chamber of Commerce
presented Paula with the Citizen of the Year in recognition of her many
contributions to the community.
This group, under Paula's direction, began to design 11th Hour jewelry
which depicts the hands of a clock pointing to the 11 o'clock hour. This
symbolizes that time is running out and that we as Christians must do what we
can to demonstrate God's love and to make a difference in people's lives.
In addition to the North Alabama B-Team Angels, there are chapters
in Dothan and Centre, Alabama, as well as the "special" Arc Angels in
Fayetteville, Tennessee. We have carried our ministry to drug rehab centers,
women's retreats, conferences, medical and dental seminars, clubs, hospitals,
banquets, churches, and nursing homes.
A fee is never charged for our programs, but donations are accepted to
cover expenses.