A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist
On September 21, 2011, we were working together at the store, and the jokes we wrote were often the highlight of the day.
It was a difficult decision for our family when I decided to return to work. I cried… a lot. I’m someone who thrives on routine, and when that routine is disrupted, it shakes me to my core. Am I controlling? Maybe. But I’ve always known that I like things a certain way, and change is something I tend to resist.
My whole world changed.
My kids went back to public school, while my oldest continued being homeschooled. It felt like everything was upside down. But I was grateful when I got my job. The woman who trained me was the slowest I’ve ever met, but she was kind, genuine, and stable.
When I was assigned my department, I met a gentleman who stood out to me—his regal demeanor, kind eyes, and radio-worthy voice immediately caught my attention. I wanted to know who he was because he worked in my department, and at that point, I needed all the help I could get.
The Priest
I introduced myself and learned that he was attending school to become a deacon in his church. Honestly, I didn’t even know there was a school for deacons, so I was immediately intrigued. I asked him questions like, “What’s up with the Pope? Why do you kneel and stand so much? Can you explain the hierarchy of the church?” He answered every question with patience and understanding, never making me feel ignorant. It was clear to me that he deeply loved both God and Jesus.
He became a blessing in my life. He would often see when I was having a rough day and would encourage me to stay busy and keep moving forward. Sometimes, when things were particularly tough, he would give me a hug. Once, after a difficult day, he handed me a beautiful rosary, saying, “This means more to me than anything, and I’m giving it to you for peace.” He explained the prayers that accompany the rosary, and it encouraged me to pray more. He also took time to pray over me at work and sent me emails with prayers. This man has truly been a precious soul in my life.
The Deaconess
Now, onto the Deaconess. She hadn’t been working with us long, but she quickly became someone I admired. She is a small, fiery woman, completely in love with the Lord and her family. To her, working at our job wasn’t just about earning a paycheck—it was a mission from God. She saw every opportunity to witness and share her faith. This lady exuded grace, dignity, and love, and she was always there to encourage, protect, and listen.
She wasn’t shy about expressing her faith. There were times when, with customers waiting, she laid hands on me and prayed over me. She has held me as I cried and cried with me, often reminding me, ‘Speak it into existence. Whatever you want, claim it. Speak positively—don’t let negativity slip out.” I have to be careful now, because I can almost hear her telling me to stop expressing negative thoughts.
Be positive. Wait on God.
I’ve been learning, through the trials of adoption, that it’s okay to cry, be upset, and talk about my feelings. I’m someone who tends to keep things inside because I don’t want to burden others or seem like I’m always complaining. But with my Deaconess, Priest, and my Wednesday night girls, I’ve found a support system full of love, prayers, and understanding. And let me tell you, I’ve needed it, especially this year.
Our Trial is Almost Over
Our adoption journey is nearing its end. I am confident that God will bring my child home before the year is up. Also, I’m speaking that out in the name of Jesus. I am so thankful for the people He is bringing into my life during this difficult time. He has blessed me with a strong family of faith, a supportive church family, and coworkers who have prayed for me, encouraged me, and walked beside me through it all.
My daughter reminded me by texting, ‘Mom, I love you, and remember to CLAIM IT,’ that God is working in our lives. He’s showing us His grace and mercy through this challenging year.
A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist
As the year comes to an end, I’m choosing to believe that my son will be home by next month. The people I’ve met along this journey—my Priest and my Deaconess will forever be a part of my child’s story. My Priest has seen me through some of the darkest moments. He has done so by praying for me while we folded jeans at JC Penney’s.
I am beyond thankful that God placed these people in my path. They have loved, supported, and encouraged me more than I could ever have imagined.
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