I would like to respond to the article “Death in a minister’s family (Herald, June 10). After over 41 years of marriage my wife Judy passed away March 22, 2010. Since I was called to vocational ministry after our marriage date, ministry has been a team effort with Judy until recently. We went to seminary together, served churches together, led mission teams together and for the past nine years served the association together.
I miss her very much. My life and ministry are very different; however, the Lord is seeing me through. As I visit association churches each Sunday, I find that without exception tears run down my cheeks usually while standing to sing a hymn or chorus.
I am learning much from this experience and will comment on just one part at this time. I have received wonderful support from churches and Christian friends. While Judy was in intensive care (five weeks) I spent every day at her bedside with the full support and encouragement of the association. I received cards, phone calls, visits, financial help with expenses, prayer, concern and love from so many. The support I received during her illness and now receive since her passing could not be better. I realize that my experience through this difficult time may not be that of all others, but this is how it has been. I am very thankful for family, Christian friends, churches and the association.
This is one minister who can say, “My Christian family stands by me!”
Robert Hetherington, Executive Director, Roanoke Valley Baptist Association, Roanoke, Va.