“Rise & Shine” is a series of articles highlighting current ways West Church members are “shining brightly” for Christ on the North Shore. The Holy Spirit enables believers of all ages to share the gospel in varied and creative ways. The groups and individuals featured in “Rise & Shine” have responded to the Spirit’s prompting and serve as encouragement and motivation for us to “go and do likewise!”
“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
(Matthew 5:15-16)
Sutton Home
Sutton Home for Women, Sewell St., Peabody
When Pat the Activity Director at the Sutton Home for Women heard about the Women’s Bible Study at West Church, she knew several of the residents would enjoy attending. Timing and transportation, however, made it impossible. The solution was, “Let’s bring a Bible Study to the Home!”
In September of 2014, three residents along with Pat began a year-long study of The Lord’s Prayer led by West Church members Karen Moniz, Bette Zagorski and Sutton Home Board member Sue Smith. On the last Tuesday afternoon of each month, the ladies from varying spiritual backgrounds met in the cozy, Victorian decorated living room for an hour of prayer, singing and practical application of God’s Word.
The ladies looked forward to the uplifting discussion and appreciated learning new truths from scripture.
After a summer break, the study resumed in the fall of 2015 with an in-depth examination of Psalm 23. Leading the now expanded group of five residents and Pat, the Activity Director, Karen along with West Church members Carol Chapman and Emily Weigand studied the well-known message from the shepherd/King David.
One resident received a Bible of her own for the first time. The year will end with a field trip to a farm to observe sheep and reflect on the Good Shepherd’s love for His own.
For decades, West Church members, including Lew & Mary Stockwell, Stan & Sue Smith, Dave Moniz, Roland & Grace Cherwek, John & Shirley Young, and Earl & Edna Forbes, have invested their efforts in the Sutton Home for Women. Nestled in the heart of downtown Peabody since the mid 1800’s, the Sutton Home offers “elegant, alternative living for seniors.” Now it also offers the opportunity for residents to meet the One who provides alternative, eternal living!
