|
|
As noted earlier, the Pension Fund is leading a capital campaign, on behalf of the entire church, to raise $5 million to support church-wide healthcare. As we recognize and celebrate ministry, we also note that many in ministry could not serve without some of the benefit they receive from church-wide healthcare. We ask that your congregation and members consider a gift to the Heartbeats of Faith campaign in recognition of the gift of ministry.
Below are a few “Heartbeat” stories. Additional stories are listed at www.heartbeatsoffaith.org. You may have a better example from your own congregation that illustrates the need to have quality health insurance for your clergy and church staff.
The Rev. Norman Fiddmont was the picture of health. Just two years before retirement, that picture changed. A routine doctor's visit lead to test that revealed a tumor. The search for the most qualified doctors was on. “We were able to make contact and be accepted by those doctors immediately,” recalls Norman “Within one month, I began treatment. Medical coverage was never an issue.” Norman 's wife and ministry partner Marilyn notes, “I remember as those copies of various medical bills etc., came to our home, Norman began to worry how we would pay them. I told him to not worry about them and when everything was processed, we would know what we really owed. I must be honest; I anticipated several thousands would be our portion. I thought we would have medical bills that would impact the rest of both of our lives. The final hospital bill for our portion arrived, and we couldn't believe it...it was nothing close to what we had feared,” explains Marilyn.
“We never realized the value of the healthcare coverage we have through this denomination until we were faced with this catastrophic illness. It made a tremendous difference in the quality of care, and consequently, the outcome. My doctors call me their walking miracle. But, I know my church is one of the major reasons that my health was restored. I'm considered a survivor now.”
“When I entered into ministry I never thought one of its biggest blessing would be health insurance.”
“The healthcare program saved us; not only from a treatment standpoint, but from what we thought would have been a financial burden for years to come,” Norman says. “We pray that this same level of care will always be available to the faithful servants of the church.”
Norman is not alone; the Disciples of Christ church-wide healthcare program is available to clergy, missionaries and church workers, though all may not be able to afford it. The Heartbeats of Faith Campaign is working to not only ensure the program will remain strong, but make it as accessible as possible. Honor those in ministry that have made an impact on your life by your gift to the campaign.
At age twenty-seven Rev. Lillian Del Pilar was diagnosed with both diabetes and hypertension. For nine years, many medical uncertainties followed… trips to the emergency room and surgeries. Lillian and her clergy husband have 5 children, two of them adopted in the beginning of their ministry. While the illnesses alone were challenging, additional stress from treatment, medication costs and providing for their family were in a word “tough.” In 2005, Lillian learned that her kidneys were failing and had to begin dialysis immediately, and continues three times per week.
Lillian writes, “Thank God, for the Pension Fund; without it we would have lost everything. I thank God everyday because I am back working in the job I love with the people I love. God in His love and grace he is so good to us. He does not ask much of us but I think right now He is telling us that that which you could give to support the Pension Fund will be a great blessing to others. My family and I ask you to give generously to Heartbeats of Faith. I know you will be greatly blessed.”
Lillian is not alone; the Disciples of Christ church-wide healthcare program is available to clergy, missionaries and church workers, though all may not be able to afford it. The Heartbeats of Faith Campaign is working to not only ensure the program will remain strong, but also make it as accessible as possible. Honor those in ministry that have made an impact on your life by your gift to the campaign.
Prayers for Heartbeats of Faith Gifts
Lord, we give thanks for these gifts offered in love to support your servants. May these gifts provide healing, comfort and strength to those who have answered your call. Amen.
CLICK HERE TO BE TAKEN BACK TO THE MAIN CONTENTS PAGE.
|
|
|
|
