I learned by my mother’s example that if I sought first the kingdom of God, everything that I needed would be added unto me (Matthew 6:33).  As far back as I can remember, I was eager to know who Jesus was.  At the age of twelve, I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and at fifteen Jesus baptized me in the Holy Spirit.  At that time, God anointed me to preach the gospel, although it was years later that I acknowledged the call to the ministry. 

While in high school, Bishop and I met, fell in love, and a year after graduation, were united in holy matrimony at the New Jerusalem Holy Church.  Immediately, God began to prepare me for my role as wife and mother.  I received the biblical concept of being a “help meet” for my mate and becoming “one flesh” with him as a literal command from the Lord.  Focusing on how I could equip myself to better complement my husband, I enjoyed taking classes such as conversational German (while living in Germany), a speedwriting course in Texas, a Bible survey course of the Old and New Testaments in Virginia, and a fundamental computer course in New York.  As Bishop received recognition and many awards, such as a military promotion, a college degree, or a Bible school citation, it was as if I too was receiving each honor.  I have always shared in the joy of each milestone of achievement.  He and I have experienced this “oneness” since the first day of our union.

To complete the joy and purpose of our marriage, God blessed us with four beautiful children!  Bishop instilled within them the discipline and importance of integrity with love.   It was important for me to give our three sons and one daughter the assurance of love and the awareness of God’s consistent grace and mercy.  As a team, Bishop and I made a point of being present at all of our children’s proud moments in school and being visibly supportive in all that concerned them.  We find that love begets love.  The more love we share with our children, the more love they have to give to their children.  So, of course, our ten (and still counting) grandchildren are blessed by the grace of God with an abundance of His love. 

I remember how much fun it was being a cheerleader in junior high school.  That joy, however, does not compare with the joy I’ve experienced being a cheerleader for my family.  All of our children and their spouses are well educated and are experiencing lucrative careers.  Never boasting in my own doing, I give all glory to the Lord for each child’s successes.  It is God’s grace and mercy that allow me to continue to cheer my companion and my children on to where He is taking them.  While the cheering was sometimes through encouraging words, advice, or with tears, prayer was always constant.  The effectual, fervent prayers of the righteous yet avail much (James 5:16b).

God has now enlarged our borders to mother and father all the children of the Morning Star Full Gospel Assembly—and beyond—as the Lord continues to lead others our way.