Let me tell you about one of our long time faithful members — our sister Joey Church. Joey started attending back when we were meeting on Locust Street where the library is now. Over the years she has faithfully supported our services with her attendance & offerings. I’ll probably miss several of her contributions but I remember her best as a Rainbow teacher with Kathy Altland back when my daughter Kayla & a dozen other preschoolers attended that class. Joey was a children’s church worker for years & also got involved with our Bible Quiz team. She was a regular helper in the kitchen during all of our get-togethers. Famous for telling it like it is, she has her own unique brand of humor that has always added flavor to our fellowship.
Over the past few years she has been battling multiple sclerosis. The disease has robbed her of a lot of physical abilities, but not her strong spirit or faith. She serves as an example of perseverance in the face of a trial. But this article isn’t about Joey. Without fanfare, without recognition, a number of women (& at least a couple of guys) from our congregation have been helping make up for much of what the illness has taken away. In no particular order: Deb Mummert, Deb Flickinger, Donna Marquet, Judy McKain, have been very helpful with Carolyn Brown and Ron Shupe adding their names to the list of those willing to help get her to appointments & such. Tim Ruth has done a number of home improvement projects for her as well. The youth group shows up every fall to rake leaves in her yard.
None of these people wants me to recognize their good deeds. None of these people have mentioned what they’re doing for our sister Joey. They have just quietly, with loving motives, done what we’re all called to do: serve. I just thought you’d like to know what kind of a church you’re attending.