With Mother’s Day approaching, we thought it would be a good time to remind the women in our lives that we love them. There are many types of mothers- birth mothers, adoptive mothers, step-mothers, grandmothers. Then there are those we refer to as “others.” These women may have stepped into our lives as mentors, friends, colleagues, friends of our mothers, or any “other” way. We all know having a mother or “other” to walk alongside us in life is incredibly important to our earthside journey. Take the time this week to share your appreciation to the mothers & “others” in your life! We went ahead and had a few women share their appreciation in the blog post below about some women in our church! Take a look for some inspiration!
Heather McAnear
Heather is a one-of-a-kind mom, wife, leader, and mentor. Our relationship began with a 6-week marriage class only a month into my marriage. Heather’s passion for marriage inspires me to put in the hard work to nurture that relationship. Our friendship has grown as we have served together, and she has intentionally invested in me. Heather has been faithful in praying for and encouraging me through 2 years of infertility and now in the joy of being an expectant mother. I have learned how to invest in my marriage and friendships, how to seek the Lord’s wisdom and guidance, and how to serve those around me with passion and grace. Thank you, Heather, for your mentorship and love!
Holly Stewart (friend of Heather)
Vickey Banks
I am more than aware of the incredible blessing it is to have Vickey Banks as my mom. A woman who has pointed me to Jesus my entire life. She has always made herself available to me when it comes to my faith and relationship with Jesus. Whether that was helping me plan Bible studies in college, coleading discipleship groups with me or simply pointing me to scripture when I have looked to others or myself instead. I know so many of you could say the same about her. Her biblical knowledge, desire to help others grow spiritually and her genuine love for people and our church have been a huge influence on my life. I praise Jesus that I am blessed to call her Mom.
Casey Yates (daughter of Vickey Banks)
Janice Hesser
When I think about all that our church offers to help us grow and serve, I can't help but think of my mom. For me, these go hand in hand. I learned to trust, follow and serve the Lord from my Mom - there has never been a doubt about the importance of not only following Jesus, but living for Him. My commitment to Bible study, mentoring, missions and family stem from Mom’s influence. I have had a front-row seat to what it looks like to serve, not only in words but in deeds. (1 John 3:18 ) Mom has also allowed God to use the pain in her life, and has shown me what a faithful friend looks like. We are now a part of the same church and it is a joy to be serving and learning together weekly. However, these things are true, whether or not we are related. Who in your life might “mother” you or who would benefit if you reached out to her? Let's celebrate and embrace the multitude of ways mothering can happen, and the impact of serving the Lord together.
Heather McAnear (daughter of Janice Hesser)
Peggy Diefenderfer
My mom, Peggy Diefenderfer, is absolutely like none other. The fact that I get to call her ‘mine’ is the greatest gift. She has always served our family and anyone who crosses her path with genuine love, humility, and selflessness. Her devotion to deeply caring for others’ needs has always been one of her most beautiful qualities. She is tender, yet strong, and joy-filled; and she was always committed to raising us in wisdom and truth. Now that I’m an adult, she has become one of my dearest friends: a confidante, shopping companion, someone I love to laugh and cook with…and THE best ‘Nama’ to all of her adoring grandchildren!
Megan Mathews (daughter of Peggy Diefenderfer)
Millicent Gillogly
I think one of the neatest things about how Millicent Gillogly has impacted my life is that it has not only been through when I have physically been around her but also because I have been mentored & taught by women that SHE mentored & taught! Millicent has been faithful in raising up the next generations of biblical sound leaders & teachers. She has worked with every age group along the way and continues to pour into others with her time. Millicent is a great public speaker but also a wonderful one on one mentor to women. She knows the importance of relationships. So many of us are better because we know Millicent!
Becca Walker (friend of Millicent)
Who is a woman in your life you need to write a note, send a text, or tell in person how much they mean to you? Take the time this week to do just that!
Meet the author!
Becca Walker is the co-founder of Metro Youth Theatre of Oklahoma. She is an enneagram three who really likes to keep busy and try new things. She and her husband, Brennan, love to serve in the church that they call home. Becca’s main loves are her family, her pups Wrigley and Rizzo, Old Navy, and of course, the incredible community at Council Road Baptist Church.