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As members of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, it is so profound how we spend our time in prayer with one another. Our communion with each other strengthens us in Christ. We lift each other up in prayer, and we are mindful of the prayers needed in our community. When we celebrate the Eucharist together, we experience our faith coming alive in the pews and at home. How exciting!
I came to learn at an early age how being part of a faith community and sharing my time, talents and treasure could strengthen my relationship with Christ. I came from a family of nine children. My family was very involved in parish life. While my parents didn’t talk a lot about what they did and why, they led by example. We witnessed their deep faith on a daily basis.
Tim and I became parishioners at St. Joseph’s in 2011. We are the owner/operators of Serenity Assisted Living apartments in Dilworth. Tim is a member of the Chancel and men’s choirs, and I have run the silent auction for the parish bazaar for a number of years and have made and donated baked beans to the parish stewardship appreciation dinner each year.
Last fall, during the month of September, Tim suffered a severe brain bleed and very quickly ended up in a vegetative state hooked up to every means of life support available to him. He went through three major brain surgeries in less than 32 hours resulting in the harsh words from the medical team that no one wants to hear – “We will give Tim 48 to 52 hours to turn around and if he doesn’t, your family will have to make some decisions and get your affairs in order.”
Fr. Larry came to anoint Tim, and the family was all steadfast in prayer. The Divine Mystery became even more powerful as we witnessed Tim struggle in every way possible. Then a miracle happened by the grace of our Lord. The St. Joseph’s Chancel Choir sent a recording of themselves singing selected Easter music. When I placed the recording by Tim’s ear, I was uncertain if he would respond. But the beautiful music filled the room and Tim fluttered his eyes and gave us hope by squeezing my finger. From that point on, he continued to improve every day and eventually was able to go home. By the grace of God, Tim is back to his regular work schedule and singing with the choirs at St. Joseph’s. So many people at St. Joseph’s were lifting our family, especially Tim, up in prayer during that difficult time and we know the power of that prayer gave Tim the strength to fight and get his life back. We were and are so grateful for our deep connection to the community of St. Joseph’s.
Each of us are given unique gifts. Our gifts may change over time as well as our interests. Tim and I have found a way to use our God-given gifts to give back to St. Joseph’s and the surrounding community. In return, we have received more than we could ever measure. Our Catholic faith is rich and hosts a multitude of opportunities to use and strengthen the gifts we have been blessed with. Please consider yourself invited and encouraged to participate in the blessing that is St. Joseph’s. God has given us so much. May we glorify him and give back to him through service to others.
