Annie's Valentine

This Saturday is Valentine’s Day. It’s the holiday where most of us spend time with that special someone: a boyfriend or girlfriend, a husband, wife, our children or just our friends. We take the time to convey our love and appreciation for that person, not because of anything that they have done for us, but simply because they are a part of our lives. Each year on Valentine’s Day, the student ministries at The Mission, Red Tree (college ministry) and Varsity (high school ministry), strive to make Valentine’s Day encouraging and meaningful for those who need it most, not because of anything they have done for us, but because Jesus is the biggest part of our lives.

A little over one year ago a dear member of Red Tree and The Mission Church, Annie Donnell, passed away after a long battle with cancer. She was a beacon of encouragement for all who knew her. Although she battled everyday for her own life, she continued to inspire each of us. Even in her final days she continually expressed her determination to fight. On the Valentine’s Day before her passing, some of the students got together and visited her to encourage her. It was an amazing and uplifting time, not only for Annie, but for all who visited her as well.

Out of this moment, came a vision to bring the same encouragement and hope to others on Valentine’s Day, especially those who need it most. Last year the students visited North Oaks Hospital bringing balloons, cards, candy, and hope. This year, we will be visiting Bell Maison Nursing Home, where 120 residents will receive the same love, hope and encouragement that Christ compels through us.

James 1:27 says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…” or as someone once said, “When we give our hearts to Jesus, we give our hearts to the helpless and the loveless.” Pray for us and the residents at Bell Maison.

Student Ministries, The Mission Church