Christianity and Heaven: Edwin W. Lutzer and Randy Alcorn.

 

A reunion like no other

We often hear about Heaven in our church services, but do we really know and understand what it really is?

Jesus is the first person we see as we transition into Heaven.

The passing of a loved one prompts profound questions about what happens after death. Christian authors Edwin W. Lutzer, in One Minute After You Die, and Randy Alcorn, in Heaven, have written extensively on this topic, offering comfort and guidance to those seeking answers. This article compares their beliefs, explores what believers experience at death, and reflects on how these views might relate to the journey of someone like Naomi Dassow.

Overview of Edwin W. Lutzer’s Beliefs (One Minute After You Die)

Edwin W. Lutzer approaches the afterlife from a biblical perspective, emphasizing the immediate transition of the soul upon death. He teaches that believers are instantly ushered into the presence of Christ, experiencing peace, joy, and freedom from suffering. Lutzer stresses that physical death is not the end, but a doorway to a conscious and glorious existence with God. The body rests, awaiting resurrection, while the soul remains alive and aware in the presence of the Lord.

Overview of Randy Alcorn’s Beliefs (Heaven)

Randy Alcorn delves deeply into the nature of heaven, describing it as a real, physical place where believers will live with resurrected bodies. He affirms that upon death, Christians are immediately with Christ, enjoying fellowship, worship, and anticipation of future resurrection. Alcorn emphasizes the continuity of personal identity, relationships, and meaningful activity, suggesting heaven is both familiar and wonderfully transformed. He encourages believers to look forward to a tangible, joyful life in God’s presence.

Comparative Analysis: Key Similarities and Differences

·         Immediate Experience: Both authors agree that believers are instantly with Christ upon death, experiencing comfort and joy.

·         Consciousness and Awareness: Lutzer highlights the soul’s awareness in God’s presence, while Alcorn expands this by describing ongoing relationships and activities in heaven.

·         Resurrection: Both affirm that the body will be resurrected, but Alcorn stresses the physical aspect of heaven and the ultimate restoration of creation.

·         Continuity of Identity: Alcorn places strong emphasis on the preservation of personal identity and memory, while Lutzer focuses on the soul’s conscious existence.

What Do Believers Experience When They Die?

According to both Lutzer and Alcorn, believers are welcomed into the presence of Christ immediately after death. This transition brings relief from pain, sorrow, and earthly struggles. The soul remains conscious and experiences profound peace, joy, and worship. There is no sense of loss or separation from God; instead, there is a deep sense of belonging and fulfillment.

What Changes and What Remains After We Die?

The most significant change is the separation of the soul from the physical body. The body awaits resurrection, while the soul is fully alive with Christ. What remains is the believer’s identity, awareness, and relationship with God. Alcorn suggests that memories, personality, and love for others persist, while Lutzer emphasizes the soul’s conscious communion with God.

Personal Reflection: Naomi’s Experience Based on These Beliefs

Drawing from Lutzer and Alcorn, Naomi’s passing would mean she is now in the joyful presence of Jesus, free from suffering and pain. Her soul is alive, conscious, and at peace. If Alcorn’s perspective is considered, Naomi retains her identity and may even anticipate future reunion with loved ones when resurrection occurs.

Ongoing Aspects After Death: Prayer, Intercession, and Awareness

Regarding whether Naomi is praying or interceding now, both authors suggest that believers in heaven are engaged in worship and praise rather than interceding for those on earth. Lutzer is cautious about the idea of the departed directly interceding, while Alcorn notes that the focus in heaven is on God’s glory. As for awareness of loved ones’ experiences, Alcorn entertains the possibility that those in heaven may have some awareness of earthly events, but insists this knowledge is filtered through perfect peace and trust in God. Lutzer tends to be more reserved, emphasizing that the joy of heaven far surpasses earthly concerns.

Conclusion: Comfort and Hope from Christian Perspectives

Both Edwin W. Lutzer and Randy Alcorn offer hopeful and comforting visions of the afterlife for believers. Their teachings affirm that death is not the end, but a transition into a conscious, joyful existence with Christ. While some mysteries remain, their perspectives encourage faith in God’s promises and the assurance that loved ones like Naomi are at peace, fully alive in the presence of the Lord. For those who grieve, these beliefs offer hope, comfort, and a renewed anticipation of reunion in God’s eternal kingdom.

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My conclusion reflects on the peaceful passing of Naomi, expressing my deep faith and sense of comfort in her transition to heaven. It highlights themes of hope, reunion, and assurance that Naomi’s spirit now resides in a place of eternal love and joy, with the promise of meeting Jesus Christ face to face.

Naomi’s Peaceful Transition

When my beloved wife Naomi took her final breath on earth, I found myself enveloped by a profound sense of peace that surpassed understanding. While the pain of loss lingered, my heart was assured that Naomi’s journey was not over but simply transformed. My faith tells me that Naomi’s spirit was welcomed into heaven—her true home—where love, joy, and eternal connection await.

Naomi’s First Experience: Face to Face with Jesus Christ after being escorted into His presence by angels. I can only imagine what that was like. Her love of Jesus and her life lived for His glory, and then finally seeing Him face to face.

Naomi’s First Experience in Eternity

I can only imagine the awe and peace that must have flooded Naomi’s soul as she took her first steps into the realm where faith becomes sight. After her final breath Naomi was gently escorted by angels into the very presence of Jesus Christ. It is a moment beyond the grasp of earthly words: the Savior she loved so deeply, whose life and teachings shaped her every day, now standing before her, face to face.

Years of devotion, worship, and longing culminated in this sacred encounter. Naomi’s heart, which had always beat with love for her Lord, must have overflowed as she gazed into the eyes of the One who gave His life for her. The joy of meeting Jesus, unfiltered and unmediated, is the fulfillment of every hope, every prayer, every act of trust she ever offered.

A Family Reunion Like No Other

But the wonders of heaven did not end there. Soon, Naomi was reunited with her beloved mom and dad, her sister, and her brother and my mother—the family who had gone before her. And her Jewish grandmother who also came to believe in Jesus. Naomi was born after her grandmother died…but that reunion must have been something!  The embrace of loved ones long missed, the laughter and the tears of reunion, filled this new beginning with profound comfort and joy. Their bonds, never broken by time or distance, were now restored in a place where sorrow and separation are no more.

And then, I can only imagine, but speculate…that all the patients that Naomi visited during her brief time in Buckhorn Kentucky as a rural health nurse, driving her jeep up the hollers visiting people she had never seen before. Greeting her. What a reunion!

Fellowship with the Saints

And so began Naomi’s eternal fellowship—not just with her own family, but with countless others she had only known from the pages of her Bible. She met the heroes of the faith, the witnesses who inspired her journey: Abraham, Moses, Mary, Peter, and so many more. Together, they worshiped the Lamb, sharing stories of grace, redemption, and God’s unending love.

In heaven, Naomi’s journey continues—her worship deeper, her joy complete, her love fulfilled. Surrounded by the great cloud of witnesses, she sings, rejoices, and lives forever in the presence of the King she so cherished on earth. And she awaits her bodily physical resurrection on the new earth.

What a reunion. What glory. What hope for all who share Naomi’s faith and await the day when they, too, will see Jesus face to face. And I, Richard, have to remember that I will see Naomi again soon, our time apart is just a short temporary separation.

This caricature sums up what has and is transpiring now!

A reunion like no other

What Are My Loved Ones Experiencing in the Present Heaven?

More about Naomi

Questions about Heaven?

You are unique with a mission.

Naomi Koerwitz Driving Her Jeep in the Hollers of Buckhorn Kentucky.

 

Naomi driving her jeep up the hollers of Kentucky

In June of 1971 on our sunny windy graduation day, we stood together joyously on
the campus lawn. As our parents snapped pictures of us, we both knew we were
taking something “out into the world” with us that was far better than an education!

Lauri Thompson

Naomi worked in Buckhorn Kentucky, a beautiful drive from Hazard!

Calling, Passion and Faith.

After a brief time of teaching at her college after graduation and then serving in the hilly countryside of Augusta, Wisconsin, Naomi was ready for a more challenging experience and calling.

Seeds were planted.

Naomi was encouraged by Urbana and The Frontier Nursing Service in Kentucky, but it apparently wasn’t in the Lord’s will for her to pursue midwifery with The Frontier Nursing Service. From 1975 to 1977, Naomi Koerwitz RN worked in Buckhorn with Lucille LeBeau at a small rural health clinic . Lucille LeBeau, was a midwife.   Armed with her jeep Naomi navigated the hollers, to make mother/baby visits. These visits were more than just routine check-ups; they were lifelines for many families who had limited access to medical care. Naomi’s dedication during these years was driven by her Christian faith and values, which propelled her to serve in such a challenging environment. Her work in Buckhorn laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in public health.

Naomi’s time in Buckhorn was marked by numerous heartwarming and challenging experiences. She often recounted the stories of families who had never seen a healthcare provider before her visits. Her presence brought not only medical care but also hope and reassurance to the community.

The clinic ran out of funding and Naomi was forced to make a difficult decision and despite her deep love for the community she had come to serve, she reluctantly returned to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she soon met and married Richard. God’s providence. She knew that her journey in healthcare was far from over. The skills and experiences she gained in Buckhorn would continue to guide her in her future roles.

Spirit of Buckhorn

Back in Milwaukee, Naomi’s reputation as a compassionate and dedicated healthcare provider preceded her. She quickly found opportunities to continue her work, always carrying the spirit of Buckhorn with her.

Legacy

“What is a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” Alexander Hamilton in Hamilton. By Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Maybe not in this life, but I believe Naomi now knows and sees!

Conclusion

Naomi Koerwitz’s legacy of compassion and service lives on through the countless lives she touched during her time in Buckhorn, Kentucky. By continuing to shine light on the seeds she planted, we can nurture and expand her mission, ensuring that her dedication to maternal health thrives for generations to come. In this way, Naomi’s passions, experience, and gifts can continue to grow exponentially, creating a lasting impact that honors her memory and continues her work.

A Journey of Discovery and Tribute by Richard

Embarking on a journey to Buckhorn, Kentucky April 21 where Naomi Koerwitz dedicated two years of her life working in a small rural health clinic, I am filled with anticipation and reverence. Naomi’s early work in this region laid the foundation for the rest of her life, and I believe her contributions continue to resonate within the community. This is one of my main reasons or goals for the journey! To document her influence in the community. And see where the Lord leads!

To see how those SEEDS grew! Don’t believe Naomi’s work has ended! The story of Naomi’s life didn’t begin at her birth and it won’t and didn’t end with her death! In fact, Naomi is more alive now than she ever was!

Message for students at Buckhorn School

Looking for any pictures of Naomi Koerwitz while she was in Buckhorn. Also any articles about the clinic and Naomi and her midwife partner Lucille LeBeau.

Have had contact with the following and will stop in and visit after April 21st. Hazard Herald, Senior Center, Library and Little Flower Clinic.

Will visit some churches in regard to GriefShare. Getting the ministry started in Hazard.

Naomi and Lucille: December 1976 in Buckhorn

Naomi is on the left side of picture . Lucille LeBeau on right.

Taken by her brother Norm sometime before Christmas!

They worked together and shared an apartment. Lucille was 15 yrs older than Naomi. Both believers!

Naomi and Lucille

Naomi Koerwitz and her dad in Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park July 1977

Story in The Hazard Herald

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Naomi Koerwitz Dassow

A Journey to Honor Naomi Koerwitz: Calling or Quest?

In the serene yet rugged landscape of Buckhorn, Kentucky, Naomi Koerwitz once
navigated the hollers with her trusty jeep, bringing care and comfort to new mothers and
their babies. As an RN working in the 1970s, Naomi’s dedication to her community left
an indelible mark, one that still resonates with the people she served. Now, as I
contemplate a journey to Buckhorn to honor and memorialize my beloved wife, I find
myself grappling with the nature of this endeavor: Is it a calling or a quest? Or perhaps,
simply a heartfelt endeavor?

The Significance of a Calling

In the Christian faith, a calling is often perceived as a divine vocation, a purpose imbued
with spiritual significance and guided by the Holy Spirit. It is an inner conviction that
one’s actions are aligned with God’s will, serving a higher purpose beyond personal
ambition. Naomi’s work as a nurse could undoubtedly be seen as her calling, a
manifestation of her compassion and dedication to service.

As I reflect on my desire to travel to Hazard and Buckhorn, I sense a stirring within my soul, a profound
urge to reconnect with the place where Naomi made such a difference. This feeling is
not merely a fleeting interest but feels deeply rooted in my faith and the belief that the
Holy Spirit is guiding me. The desire to connect with the women Naomi ministered to, to
uncover articles in the Hazard Herald about the clinic’s closure, and to find a photograph
of Naomi during her time in Hazard all point to a mission that transcends a mere good
idea.

The Nature of a Quest

A quest, on the other hand, is often depicted as a journey undertaken in pursuit of a
specific goal or objective. It is driven by determination and a sense of adventure,
seeking to uncover truths, solve mysteries, or achieve a cherished dream. My research
and extensive efforts to piece together Naomi’s legacy certainly reflect the
characteristics of a quest. The countless hours spent delving into archives, reaching out
to contacts, and planning the trip to Hazard demonstrate a relentless pursuit of
knowledge and connection.

While a quest can be deeply personal and meaningful, it does not necessarily carry the
same spiritual connotation as a calling. However, that does not diminish its value. A
quest can fulfill a profound need for closure, understanding, and tribute, honoring the
memory of a loved one in a tangible and impactful way.

Connecting with Naomi’s Legacy

One of the most poignant aspects of this journey is the opportunity to connect with the
women whom Naomi served. These women, who experienced Naomi’s care and
compassion firsthand, hold a unique and invaluable perspective on her impact. By
engaging with them, I hope to gain insights into Naomi’s work, her character, and the
lasting impressions she left behind.

Additionally, the genealogist Librarian in Hazard plays a crucial role in this journey. By
checking microfilm from The Hazard Herald for articles regarding the clinic’s closure,
she can and has uncovered pieces of history that illuminate Naomi’s contributions and the
challenges she faced. Finding a picture of Naomi during her time in Buckhorn would be a
cherished discovery, a tangible link to her past and a visual testament to her dedication.

A Heartfelt Endeavor

Ultimately, whether this journey is a calling, a quest, or simply a heartfelt endeavor may
be a matter of perspective. In my heart, I believe it encompasses elements of all three.
It is driven by a deep sense of purpose and faith, guided by the Holy Spirit’s work in my
life. It is also a determined pursuit fueled by love and the desire to honor Naomi’s
legacy. And it is a profoundly personal mission, born out of the countless hours of
research and reflection.

As I prepare to embark on this journey to Buckhorn, Kentucky, I do so with a heart full of
love, respect, and gratitude for Naomi Koerwitz Dassow. Her legacy continues to inspire and
guide me, and I am committed to preserving her memory in a way that reflects the depth
of her compassion and dedication. Whether this journey is a calling, a quest, or simply a
good idea, it is undoubtedly a testament to the enduring impact of a remarkable woman.

Four years before Naomi entering the Lord’s presence!

Naomi praying Lord's Prayer

A Journey to Buckhorn, Kentucky

 

Naomi Koerwtiz Dassow making home visit in Buckhorn, Kentucky. Verna Farber 1976

Naomi A prayer and providence.

Just found a few pages of some of Naomi’s writings back 50 years ago.

“Please let this be my last winter in all this cold and snow”, Ann (Naomi used ANN” in her writings) half prayed half sighed as she pulled up her hood and shoved on high boots and pushed open the door to check on the amount of digging needed to get her car cleared off after last nights fresh snowfall of 8 more inches. She took in short gasspy breathes of crisp, bitterly cold air and gazed up at a brilliantly blue sky. How lovely to see all the snow clinging to the trees and the shimmering clean covering on the ground. But is was cold, another -12 day the weather man said.”

Naomi liked the farming area of northern Wisconsin and the people, who appreciated her nursing skills. She liked to dream and thought and wrote, “If I like this type of nursing so well, why not move to an even remoter area where there is a greater need for nurses, Ann mused, but where, since she had to admit the desire to travel to foreign countries has never been that great. Besides since mom had developed kidney disease and been on dialysis these last months, Ann really didn’t want to be more than 1-2 days drive away from home.

All these ideas are just dreams, but it’s fun to plan. Across her minds eye flashed the verse from Ps 119:133, “Direct my footsteps according to your word…” Jesus certainly puts all ideas in perspective . Since her commitment to Christ 3 yrs ago, she was learning to rely on Him to direct her. Well, time to quit dreaming….”

THAT is all for now from Nomi’s writing… Naomi used ANN for her name in her writing.

Nomi hosted a Bible Study in her apartment in Eau Claire and with a few friends traveled down to the Urbana Missions Conference held at Christmas time in Illinois.

Naomi was Interested in The Frontier Nursing Service, but not that interested in riding a horse to see patients! She connected with a small clinic in City of Buckhorn and did drive a jeep to see her patients. A young 27 single lady serving as a pediatric community nurse.

___________________________________________________________

This was a prayer that was answered.

Looking back, I’m struck by Naomi’s courage and faith as she navigated the winding hollers of Buckhorn, Kentucky. Having driven those same roads myself in good weather, I can only imagine her determination during the harsh, snowy winters. She told one story of her Jeep getting off the road in winter while making a visit and a logging truck came to the rescue and pulled her back on the road. .

After today’s heavy snowfall, I can’t help but picture Naomi hauling supplies across the Kentucky River for one of her home visits in summer—a challenge in itself. In winter, the obstacles must have multiplied, and I can certainly understand while she wasn’t always eager to make those unannounced home visits…

This was a pivotal point in Naomi’s life…just the beginning of what was to come!

Crossing The Kentucky River…in Spring of 1976

See picture of Naomi crossing the Kentucky River with a wheelbarrel with her supplies.. Date on back of picture is 1976. Patient: Verna

More on God’s providence and calling.

As Oswald Chambers states : “The circumstances of a man’s life are ordained by God. In the life of a saint there is no chance. God by His providence brings you into circumstances that you cannot understand at all, but the Spirit of God understands. God brings you to places, among people, and into certain conditions to accomplish a definite purpose through the intercession of the Spirit in you.” 

Theologian Dr. R.C. Sproul. “God’s sovereign providence stands over and above our actions. He works out His will through the actions of human wills, without violating the freedom of those human wills.” 

“Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’S purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21

“You already know the ultimate destination of your journey: your entrance into heaven. So keep your focus on the path just before you, leaving outcomes up to Me” Nov 19th Devotion from Jesus Calling by Sarah Young.

“The trail is long, and we won’t arrive at our destination in this life. Still, we’re on the journey with Jesus for the greatest thrill of our lives.” Zig Ziglar

A brief reflection of Naomi’s early life

A Journey of Faith and Dedication

During the mid 70’s Naomi worked in Buckhorn, Kentucky, a region known for its rugged terrain and underserved population. She joined forces with Lucile LeBeau at a rural health clinic. Armed with her jeep, s he navigated the hollers, or narrow valleys, to make mother-daughter visits. These visits were more than just routine check-ups; they were lifelines for many families who had limited access to medical care. Naomi’s dedication during these years was driven by her Christian faith and values, which propelled her to serve in such a challenging environment. Her work in Buckhorn laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in Public Health or community healthcare.

Naomi’s early life: College and post college. Reflections by friends.

Multiplying the seeds Naomi planted…My calling.

Naomi planted countless “seeds” during her short time in Buckhorn. The impact of her work may not have been visible to her, but those seeds sprouted and grew, creating a lasting legacy. She provided essential healthcare, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, touching the lives of many families. I remember what her highschool and college friend Lauri wrote about their graduation: “In June of 1971 on our sunny windy graduation day, we stood together joyously on the campus lawn. As our parents snapped pictures of us, we both knew we were taking something “out into the world” with us that was far better than an education!“

AMEN

And the Journey continues!

Let us praise the LORD together, and exalt His name. Psalm 34:3

Trusting God's Wisdom: A Guiding light for Life's Journey

 

One of the verses that has guided me over these past few years is:

“When the time is right, I, the LORD, will make it happen.” — Isaiah 60:22

Proverbs 3:5-6

That verse has become more than just a Bible verse to me. It has become a quiet anchor. A reminder that God is not late. God is not confused. God is not surprised by the turns in our lives.

There are seasons when we do not understand what He is doing. There are moments when life changes faster than we expected. Family changes. Health changes. Loved ones move. Grandchildren grow up. Doors close. New doors open. And sometimes we look back and realize that God was arranging things long before we could see it.

That is why Proverbs 3:5–6 has meant so much to me:

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6, ESV

These verses do not promise that we will understand everything as it happens. They call us to trust the One who does.

God’s Timing Is Not Ours to Control

In today’s rapidly changing world, it can be daunting to navigate an unknown future. But I find great comfort in knowing that God sees what I cannot see. He knows the needs of our children. He knows the path of our grandchildren. He knows the burdens we carry quietly in prayer.

Sometimes we want answers right away. We want everything settled, explained, and made clear. But faith often means walking forward while still trusting that God is guiding the road beneath our feet.

“When the time is right, I the Lord will make it happen.”

That is not passive resignation. It is active trust.

It means we keep praying. We keep loving. We keep serving. We keep encouraging. We keep showing up. And we leave the results, the timing, and the future in God’s hands.

God Remembers Our Prayers

One of the most encouraging thoughts I have come across is from James Banks in Bless the Lord, O My Soul from Our Daily Bread:

“God’s memory is perfect. He is able to remember our prayers not only for years but also for generations beyond our lifetime. He never forgets them and may move in response long after we first brought our requests to Him.”

That is a powerful thought.

God remembers our prayers.

The prayers Naomi prayed. The prayers I have prayed. The prayers parents and grandparents prayed before us. The prayers we may never see fully answered in our lifetime. Just returned from SLO San Luis Obispo. Cal Poly. Grandson Langdon graduation. I know that Naomi for sure prayed for him and all our grandchildren everyday…and I did too, but probably missed some days…Naomi didn’t. That much I am am certain.

God does not forget them.

That gives me hope for my children and grandchildren. It reminds me that our prayers may continue bearing fruit long after we are gone. We may plant seeds of faith, encouragement, and hope that God waters in His own time.

A Legacy of Faith and Hope

As we move through life, we should not forget the profound impact our prayers, words, and intentions can have — not just for ourselves, but for the generations that follow.

Our children and grandchildren hold the potential to change the world for eternity. They may walk through doors we never imagined. They may be used by God in ways we will not fully see. But our prayers matter. Our example matters. Our faithfulness matters.

Before you leave today, I encourage you to take a moment and reflect on your own legacy.

What seeds of faith are you planting?

What prayers are you entrusting to God?

What words of blessing are you speaking over those who will follow?

A Blessing for the Journey

May this ancient blessing be our prayer for our families, our children, our grandchildren, and all those God places in our lives:

“The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” — Numbers 6:24–26, NIV

Let’s do the same.

Naomi Dassow. About her life.

O Come Let Us Adore Him - Amanda Cook | Moment

The Lord’s Prayer with Chaplain Naomi Dassow

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Naomi Dassow

Naomi’s life Life Story. Naomi H. Dassow,

Naomi Dassow

Naomi H. Dassow

Streaming live Sat. 12:45 pm CST Pictures of her life

In case you missed it, here is a video of service. 126 people viewed it either streaming or later.

“The trail is long, and we won’t arrive at our destination in this life. Still, we’re on the journey with Jesus for the greatest thrill of our lives.” Zig Ziglar

A fall in the woods while hiking in Door County led to a series of complicated medical issues with no good options…and being on kidney dialysis which led to the enviable decision of choosing when to meet the Lord. A peaceful ending. Two days before meeting the Lord. “Why am I having so much fun dying.” Naomi She knew!

She knew the Lord and where she was going and was anxious to get there! Until we meet again! Dick

Naomi’s life

The Rich View for today

Waiting on the Lord. https://faithvisionservice.com/ “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:3-6 English Standard Version (ESV) My motto or major scripture verse of the past few years. “When the time is right, I the Lord will make it happen.” Isaiah 60:22 Before you leave! A short message and prayer for our children and grandchildren! Yes, you can change the world for eternity! Someone before us did by praying for us! We are who we are and where we are because of someone in the past who may have prayed for their offspring…children and grandchildren. ..and may still be praying for us wherever they are.  “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Numbers 6:24-26 NIV Let’s do the same!

Mission and Vision:

Difference between Mission and Vision Mission is a general statement of ministry objectives; it is philosophic. Vision is a specific, detailed statement of direction and uniqueness: it is strategic.”

Helen Oppenheimer's Journey To American: I Can Only Imagine

We have all heard "stories" of how Ferdinand Weyland met Helen on the boat as she was immigrating to America and Ferd was returning to the U.S. after a year of studying Semetic languages in Germany. And then getting married some 3 years later right after Ferd was ordained as a Lutheran pastor.