Relocating to new ministry setting!

Hi, my name is Nancy. In March of 2022, a few things were happening. I felt that God was calling me to leave Minnesota. Prior to leaving Minnesota, I worked as a Chaplain. It became increasingly difficult to walk the floors at the health center. I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis in April 2022. After six weeks of physical therapy, I decided to move to a warmer climate. On June 21, 2022, I packed my car and moved to live with my sister, who was having health issues. The warm weather in Virginia helped the back pain and arthritis. I took a few months leave from ministry to take care of my health. I faced many challenges with Social Security and not having medical insurance. The system was very slow securing benefits.

In October, I began working as a Mental Health Practitioner. Virginia has very strict laws for Mental Health Practitioners. I was required to apply for a Residency in October. When I become a Resident, I will be allowed to bill insurances. It’s been nearly five months and no decision from the Board of Counseling about the Residency. This is so discouraging! I have been seeing clients for no fee. I’ve heard repeatedly from the Board of Counseling that the decision will be made soon. I’ve also been told that they are short staffed.

So far, I have gotten two stipends from agencies for seeing clients. Please pray for licensing to come through. Money has been tight.

In January I was appointed to Trinity United Methodist Church in downtown Newport News as the Senior Pastor. This ministry is situated three-four blocks from the Newport News shipyard. The church is surrounded by seamen and women living in barracks adjacent to the church building. I am excited to have active duty folks in our neighborhood. It has been my dream for years to serve those who serve. The congregation is an older group, and they are Amazing!!!

I am only part-time at Trinity. This means that I am not eligible for relocation.

I recently moved into my own place. I would really like to get my belongings out of storage in Minnesota. I’ve been sleeping on a twin bed and living out of boxes for months. But I’m thankful. I need help. Back in the day, I would have moved everything myself (along with a friend or two). Not anymore! This back and arthritis won’t allow for it. When my back goes out, it takes a loooong time to recover. I’m accepting the reality. I’m getting older!

(Got some dental issues that have been a financial drain, but that’s another story).

I have had estimates from $3800 to $5000.

Any amount that you give will be greatly appreciated as I settle into this great ministry setting. What a journey!!!

Blessings and Peace…Nancy