Our own Rachel Hamrick has taken a special interest in Mission Dignity, a ministry that provides financial support to retirement-aged Southern Baptist ministers and surviving spouses who are experiencing financial difficulties due to economic hardships like medical bills and other unexpected expenditures. Many of these individuals served smaller churches that lacked the resources to fully cover retirement benefits for these pastors and spouses and families who ventured out in faith to serve these smaller congregations. Mission Dignity is an avenue of service for those who want to help these faithful servants.
Mission Dignity sent Rachel a list of clients in Alabama asking that she send them an Easter Card and a word of encouragement. Of course, Rachel obliged, and here are some of her responses to her correspondence:
- Robert lost his wife of 62 years and was so appreciative of Rachel’s card and the ministry of Mission Dignity. He served small churches for the better part of his ministry and has little savings but is still trying to serve God as he is able.
- Libby lost her husband 7and ½ years ago. She is losing her eyesight. She appreciates the way the Lord, Mission Dignity, and fellow Christians have come to her aid.
- Linda received her Easter card on the exact date of her husband’s death one year ago. She said the Lord used the card to bring a little joy into her heart that day.
- Ann shared that her husband has been in the Alzheimer’s unit of a local nursing home for almost 3 years. She asked for prayers for both of them.
- Dewey is 95 years old this year. His wife died in 2018 and he is now alone, “just him and God,” he said. Dewey also shared that knowing his ministry has been appreciated meant so much. He would like for you to pray for him and he will be praying for us.
There are other responses received and you are welcome to come by my office and see the various words of appreciation sent to Rachel and words of gratitude to Mission Dignity.
In the coming weeks, you will receive, via Sunday bulletin insert, information pertaining to Mission Dignity. Give as you feel led and thank you Rachel for making us more aware of this tremendous ministry.
Andy o