Margaret

Margaret from St. Hilda’s, Redcar shares her Stepping Up journey.

I have always had a faith but always seemed to pray just in time of need and crisis.

Then in February 2022 I watched my beloved husband pass away. He had the biggest smile on his face.

My grief was overwhelming. I bravely, as I then though, went to Teardrops at my church.

I understand the hard work it is to walk through those doors the first time to a room full of strangers. That first welcome is so important.

I also joined Ruth’s wellbeing group on Friday mornings. So between Ruth and Jill from Teardrops I was ‘gently’ encouraged to come to a church service, which I did and was one of the best decision in my new life and circumstances.

To my shock, after going to many Monday morning meetings, Jill asked me to join the Teardrops team. Since that day our Jill has passed away. But she has left a massive legacy behind. What an honour to be asked to continue it. She started the Teardrops group for people in grief through her own Community Ministry via the Mustard Seed project and doing Stepping Up. God was sending me so many signs and signals to take over Jill’s legacy. I doubted myself and prayed long hours about where and what I should do. This was a blessing that came to me. Our numbers are steadily growing. I do still feel it’s a massive privilege to be so trusted by people to share their emotions and feelings with us in the group.

I remember asking Revd. Jane, my lovely vicar, why did I also seem to be asking God for help and different situations? I always seemed to be asking and not giving. Her words are now ingrained with me “ Where are you? (I was in church), plus what was I doing there? Oh! I then thought! I was tyring to serve the Lord in my small way.”

I also volunteer at the church shop and coffee mornings. I love to talk to the people who visit those mornings. It’s tiring but such a joy. The team there work so hard but mainly we have fun too.

Then a wonderful step for myself in 2023, I was at long last confirmed in the church.

After several months, Sue G finally through her encouragement said I was willing to meet Paul about Stepping Up. Gosh this was a massive step in my faith journey I do not regret one minute about saying yes, praying is so much easier for me too.

It has not only helped deepened my faith, but the confidence in moving now what I am being encouraged to do. I might just as well go with the flow, I believe the Lord has already decided my path in faith. Maybe God has more plans for me. I await to see what will enfold and go with whatever I sometimes feel is going to happen.