A Meeting of Two Ministries Page 1
Transcription
A Meeting of Two Ministries Page 1
T H E H AV E N N E T W O R K F a ll 2 0 11 A Meeting of Two Ministries Fall 2011 Contents Family Sharing Pg. 1, Cont. Pg. 6 Message from The Haven - Page 2 Volunteer Corner Page 2 Upcoming Events Page 2 Donations/Grants Page 3 Project Bear Page 4 Wish List Page 4 Subsequent Births Page 4 Keep in Your Prayers Page 5 In Sincere Gratitude Page 5 Legacy of Giving and Affirmation of Mission Page 5 Page 1 by Kelly Gerken I first read a blurb about The Haven Network a few years ago, shortly after learning about the concept of perinatal hospice and meeting Amy Kuebelbeck (author of Waiting With Gabriel). I was gazing through a list of perinatal hospice organizations and stopped for a moment when I read that The Haven Network was a Christian-based, non-profit organization, serving families who have received a fatal diagnosis during pregnancy. Immediately something stirred in me. I knew that one day I'd like to make a connection with them and see what kind of work they do. Perinatal hospice was a fairly new concept, and I was quite intrigued with the idea that such a place could exist...a place where families facing a fatal pregnancy diagnosis could find support, encouragement, guidance, Jean Heise, Kelly Gerken, and Kathy Way at resources, and comfort. It is the very thing I wish existed when my family muddled our way through our crisis years ago, and some of what I The Haven Office. longed to help provide for families myself through Sufficient Grace Ministries. I came across the name again at some point and found that The Haven Network was located in Rockford, Illinois...the same town where my father lived. I decided that the next time I was able to visit my father, I would see if I could visit The Haven. Years passed, and we started serving families in our own way...through the Dreams of You Memory Book and Comfort Bears and online support through families. I spoke at hospitals and women's groups...sharing about the hope and comfort God gives and about SGM. Two weeks ago, while planning a spontaneous visit to finally see my father's home, I remembered The Haven Network. The whirlwind trip was going to be a busy one with just the boys and me so, I wasn't sure if I could pull it off. I had a fleeting thought about getting their contact information, and then a mom named Laura that we had ministered to through SGM sent me a comment on facebook that Rockford, Illinois was the location of the perinatal hospice organization that walked with her in her time of need. She had wonderful things to say about the ways they had offered her support. I quickly asked for their contact info., and she sent it. I contacted them and spoke with Jean who was receptive to meeting with me and arranged a time that fit into our busy schedules. We met Saturday morning. Jean greeted me at the door of their beautiful building located in downtown Rockford on the Rock River. I walked through the hallway, gazing at walls adorned with gorgeous black and white photographs that captured precious, yet brief lives--baby feet, mamas and babies, hands holding one another, soaking in a lifetime of love and memories in a moment. Everything about the place was soothing and welcoming...honoring of life. I met Kathy who joined Jean in her office to share the mission they had for families who face the loss of their babies. They have a staff with a nurse (Kathy) and a photographer and a host of volunteers. I kept choking down emotion as I looked around. It was if I were walking in a dream, my own dream and vision. I had longed to create such a place where families could come...a haven where there would be love and encouragement to continue a Continued on Page 6> The Haven Office: 124 N. Water Street, Suite 030 Rockford, IL 61107 Phone: 815-962-1512 E-mail: [email protected] ...if only for a moment Page 2 A Message from The Haven In August, Cheri Grennan-Smith resigned as Executive Director at The Haven Network. It was not an easy decision for her and it came after much thoughtful and prayerful consideration on her part. Cheri was offered a full-time position as Assistant Director of Institutional Advancement at Rockford Christian Schools. A job we have no doubt she will do well at. Cheri has been a blessing to The Haven for nearly four years. From her very early days as a volunteer, to Executive Director and our leader and role-model, she was tireless in her efforts to make The Haven the professional and compassionate Christian organization it is today. Jean Heise and Cheri Grennan-Smith At this time, Kathy Pittman and I will continue to move forward, together with our wonderful and priceless volunteers, to provide families with the care and support they so desperately need in their time of grief and despair. We thank Cheri for her past and continued support and look forward to a future of success and growth. We have been blessed as an organization to be surrounded by caring and generous individuals who value our mission and what we do for our families. It is an honor to be a part of The Haven Network, and we thank all of our Haven followers and families for their kindness and support. ~ Kathy Way, R.N., BSN Director of Family Services Volunteer Corner This is a new section in our newsletter devoted to our volunteers and our volunteer needs. In each newsletter we will highlight one of our volunteers and will post any current needs or volunteer opportunities. Needs Premie hand sewn outfits 24" x 24" white or pink knit blankets Volunteer Opportunities Professional Photographers willing to take on-call hours as a Haven photographer Professional Fundraiser or Fund Developer Individuals to help with upcoming Haven events (Memory Lights and Haven Auction) Upcoming Events aven h Memorial Ornaments for Sale THE AUCTION Volunteer Judi Meling presents Kathy Way with handmade baby buntings. SAVE THE DATE! Mark you calendars for our 9th Annual Journey of The Heart auction benefit to be held on Friday, February 17, 2012 at Forest Hills Country Club. If you would be interested in sponsoring our event, please contact The Haven Office, 815-962-1512. Candle Light Vigil Area families are invited to attend the Candle Light Vigil and Rememberance Ceremony held annually to help comfort those who have experienced the death of a child. The brief inspirational program of music, testimonials and reflection will take place on Tuesday, December 6th, at 6 p.m. at the Angel of Hope Statue located in Waterside Park at the corner of East State and Water Streets in downtown Rockford. Families are encouraged to bring a single white flower to place at the base of the statue. Refreshments and fellowship immediately following inside the Waterside Building located directly north of the statue. There is no fee or registration required. With the holidays come joyful festivities which make winter a warmer season. For those families who have suffered the death of a loved one however, this time of year can be difficult. In memory of your loved one, we are offering a beautiful pewter angel ornament with a hanging ribbon and small memory tag which can be personalized with your loved one's name for the price of $15, shipping included. If you would like to order an ornament, please visit our website to download an order form or contact The Haven Network for more information at 815962-1512. Proceeds from the memorial ornaments will help fund The Healing Hearts Parent Support Group. Memorial Lights The Haven Network offers families a unique way to honor and memorialize their baby during this upcoming holiday season. Anyone who has experienced a loss through miscarriage, stillbirth or infant death may honor and share their baby with others by "Lighting a Candle" on our website. This is located under the Families link at: www.thehavennetwork.org ...if only for a moment Page 3 The Haven Receives a Legacy Gift A gift of $100,000 was given to The Haven Network from the Werner R. Krause and Elizabeth R. Krause Trust. The Krauses were faithful supporters of The Haven since its founding. Their gifts were in memory of Elizabeth's infant brother who died at birth. The Krauses are now deceased but left a legacy of generosity to many Christian ministries throughout the country. Werner Krause is the uncle of Jean Heise, President Emeritus. Donations/Grants Alpine Kiwanis Charities Marilyn Baker - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Dr. Heather Barrett Cherie, Brad, Laurie, and Laurel at Bureau County Housing Authority, Princeton IL - in memory of Faith Colleen Flannery Dr. Mark and Lori Cirella Community Foundation of Northern IL Dave and Judy Deshazo Deanna Ducher Danielle Duda - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Susan Duda - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Chip and Teya Gammel - in memory of Emily Elizabeth Frank Gelafio Tonetta Glawe Kent and Jean Heise Holy Family Catholic Church Edwards R Hopple Reverend Paul and Verna Krause Meleah Noelle Querubin Memorial Fund Million Dollar Round Table Foundation/Kent Heise sponsor Dr. Steve and Marissa Milos - in memory of Luca and Gian Milos Elsayed and Krista Mohamed - in memory of Luca and Gian Milos Joyce Mueller - in memory of Grace Sautel Gina Patten - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Mary Peterson Chelsea and Ryan Pribyl - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Kelsey Scholle and Rey Querubin - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Jan and Michael Simone Angelo Spoto Janice Thompson Lori Van Diggelen - in memory of Meleah Noelle Querubin Monsignor Raymond Wahl Werner R Krause and Elizabeth R Krause Trust Fund Westminster Presbyterian Church Woodman's Markets Donations listed as of September 30, 2011 - Please accept our apologies for any errors or omissions within this newsletter. ...if only for a moment Page 4 The Haven Website Project Bear We received 20 plush teddy bears as a donation from Project Bear, a non-profit organization that gives teddy bears to parents who have experienced the death of a baby due to - miscarriage, stillbirth, infant death and SIDS. You can find out more information about Project Bear by visiting their website at www.projectbear.us and their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/projectbear Please visit our website at www.thehavennetwork.org DO YOU FACEBOOK? Join our Haven Network Facebook Page (facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/TheHaven-Network/72904771691) Website Features... Family online blogging PayPal for online giving Upcoming events Resource links Light a Candle Wish List Forever Stamps Gift cards to Kohl's, Walgreens, and Target White photo storage boxes from Hobby Lobby 5x7 black photo frames Amazon gift card for bereavement materials Crayola Model Magic 2 lb container-White A Walk to Remember On Sunday, October 2nd area families participated in the Walk to Remember held at the YMCA Log Lodge and bike path. Many of our Haven families took part in this annual event sponsored by SwedishAmerican Health System and Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Subsequent Births We would like to acknowledge our families who have been blessed with a new addition. If you would like to share your joyful news with us, please send your information to: [email protected] Rachel and Jeremiah Hedlund proudly announce the arrival of Brendan James Hedlund born July 2, 2011 - 8 lbs. 8 oz. The Hedlund family lovingly remembers their son, Kameron James born June 11, 2010 Becky Alsing and Sam Spears proudly announce the arrival of Vanessa Rayne Spears born August 17, 2010 - 8 lbs. 1 oz. They lovingly remember her older sister, Rainey Morgan Spears born June 30, 2009 Michelle and Mark Lynch proudly announce the arrival of Mackenna Jean Lynch born July 30, 2011 - 8 lbs. 20 in. The Lynch family lovingly remembers their baby, Jackson Reynolds born April 24, 2010 ...if only for a moment Please Keep in Your Prayers Please keep in your prayers the families of the following Haven babies from the past 3 months: Ceairra Kellie & Keairra Ella Gian Michael & Luca Joseph Ayla Patrice Eleanna Mae Joshua Lopez Micracle Royniah Represents early miscarriage Elijah Angel Evelyn Marie and Sophia Kay Gaberial Alan Faith Colleen Justin Kurt Malcolm Elliott Allan Eric Scott Meleah Noelle William Scott Jeremiah Stephon Julianna Aleah Asia Vivian James Nicholas Page 5 In Sincere Gratitude to... Anonymous - Wish list items Clara Barzookis- Handmade baby blankets Bob Beckett, Image N' That - Picture developing Pricilla Fibbet - Handmade baby buntings Erika & Jason Freund - Yarn and ribbon Kelly Gerken - Keepsake items Madeline Greb - Handmade baby necklaces and bracelets Cheri Grennan-Smith - Armoire Anne & Albert House - Photo albums Laura & Tim Krooswyk - Gift card to Kohl's Scott & Mary Jo Legrand - Advertisement Heather Lopez - Handmade Mother's Journals Rachel Marsh/ HH Group - Kleenex Judi Meling - Handmade baby items Elaine Meyer - Handmade hats and booties Riffle Family - Premie outfits Ruth Steffan & Jean Heise - Handmade baby buntings Sally Stegemann - Photo albums Marg Weidenhofer - Handmade baby items Joseph Esteban Legacy of Giving We appreciate all financial support for the services our organization gives to bereaved parents, no matter the size of the gift. However, some of you may have the capacity and desire to give a life long gift to THE HAVEN NETWORK. If you are interested in creating a legacy gift or endowment in honor or memory of your loved one, THE HAVEN NETWORK would be happy to assist you in gathering the necessary information to remember our organization in your will or trust. Please contact The Haven Office at 815-962-1512 or [email protected] for more information about legacy giving. Affirmation of Mission At The Haven Network We believe each baby is handcrafted by the Triune God and is a valued member of the human family. We believe each baby, pre-born or newly born, is worthy of tender, palliative care until natural death. We believe that every family member, regardless of race or creed, deserves to be treated with honor and dignity. We recognize that parents have the primary role in caring for their baby and deserve support and encouragement, enabling them to be the best parents possible in their time of grief. We are honored, as staff and volunteers, to be the servants of Christ and will strive to model His example of compassionate care. Soli Deo Gloria Adopted by the Board of Directors September 20, 2004 ...if only for a moment Page 6 A Meeting of Two Ministries, Continued from Page 1 pregnancy with hope and dignity. It was a place where each precious life is treasured and a family is supported through the process, a place where someone will hold the hand of each mama and daddy and walk with them all the way. At one point I had to allow the emotion to come out...so overwhelmed was I to know that such an amazing, beautiful place exists for families like us. I felt such awe and gratitude to be standing in the room with the women who created this place...the women who have made this their life's work. How I long to do the same. I shared with them the story of my Faith, Grace, and Thomas with much emotion spilling over. And, I told them about starting Sufficient Grace in 2004 and operating out of my basement. Even as we sat in their beautiful building, they shared about starting in a basement as well. I felt that we had been parts of a puzzle that fit together in that moment. I admired all that they had accomplished and they encouraged me on what we have accomplished. All of us know that God was really the One that made it all possible! It was such a blessing to spend time sharing and exchanging ideas with like-minded ladies, with hearts of compassion for the same purpose...comforting grieving families. I hope to work with them in the future in whatever way our paths happen to cross again. It seems the Lord has plans for us, and I look forward to seeing what that might be! by Kelly Gerken You can read more about Kelly’s personal story at: www.sufficientgrace.net T H E H AV E N N E T W O R K Northern Illinois' Perinatal Hospice & Bereavement Center 124 North Water Street Suite 030 Rockford, Illinois 61107 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ROCKFORD, IL PERMIT NO. 1329