Several years ago, I walked into Willowdale Chapel on a Wednesday morning for my first experience with women’s Bible study. At the time, I was not yet a believer in Jesus Christ and not sure what I was getting into. As I aimlessly walked around looking for the woman who had invited me to Bible study, several kind women helped search the many rooms filled with women gathered to gain more knowledge and understanding of the Gospel. I was nervous since this was my first time and was thankful for my two month old in my arms who was interceding the stares I felt directed my way.

It was at that moment that I met Pat for the first time. She got close, gave a kind smile, and put her arm around me and my son. She took us to the group I had been searching for, her group, with such guidance and acceptance, it was as if she was saying, “Come, you belong here.”  Physically, mentally, and spiritually I was lost, empty, and searching. Pat found me and took me to where I belonged. 

Over the next several years, I stayed in this study and with this group of women. I grew in my faith and my understanding of the Gospel and how it helped mold me as a Christian and as a woman. Throughout all of this growth, Pat played an integral role. However, this is not about me, this is about Pat and the lives she touched by being such a bright and loving beacon of light by showing each of us how we can learn and grow as God intends. 

As Sarah mentioned in last week’s blog post, Pat Bentzel went to the Lord on January 3, 2023. At her service, I learned my sentiments of Pat were seen by so many. As many know, Pat was a beautiful soul. She was kind, caring, and so sweet. She always greeted everyone with a big smile and a warm hug.  She was spunky, witty, and fierce. She was quick with a joke and up for any adventure. She was loving, radiant, and so, so, faithful. Pat taught me that life is not easy, which we all know, but God is always there. With God we have joy (which Pat always expressed), love (which Pat always showed), and hope (which Pat always sought).  With God we have everlasting life in the wonders of heaven (which Pat now sees). 

Pat was a true beacon of light for God! She spoke highly of God and prayed like no other. She not only asked what prayers you needed and prayed them often, but also continually asked how God was working! I remember always being in awe when she prayed in our group. The Holy Spirit moved in her, finding the perfect words to bring comfort and turn you to God.  

Now Ms. Pat, it is time that we pray for you.

God, we are so grateful for our beloved Pat. She was a light and faithful servant of You. She shined your love and joy. She held to your Word and walked beside You; in dark times and in bright. She guided others to you. Today, Pat is home. We know, because of You, she has no hurts, pain, fear, or sadness. She is filled with joy and surrounded by more beauty than we could ever imagine. Pat is happy and is home. I pray we seek You, pray to You, and shine like Pat. Pat was such a fine example of how You desire us to live, and I pray we can continue her legacy. Lord, I pray each woman who reads this, whether they knew Pat or not, can have the blessing of having some portion of Pat’s legacy instilled in them; her laughter, her adventure, her energy for worship and prayerfulness for all. I pray we shine your light for all to see! And I pray one day, we will all be home.  

Psalm 27: 1, 4 

The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? 

The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid? 

One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: 

That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, 

To gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.

Amen.

ABOUT OUR BLOGGER

A former teacher, coach and personal trainer, Kristin Ryan now loves being a stay-at-home mom.

As someone who has more recently found Christianity, she enjoys learning and growing in her faith and is excited to share her experience with others. Kristin and her husband, Casey, have three small children (one was born during the pandemic) and one big dog.

IF:2023 is a two-day event where women all over the world gather together, get equipped, and discover the next step in their calling: to go and make disciples. This year’s theme is "Let's Watch God Move." For two days we get to gather and remind each other that God is who we need. God is who will provide. We gather for two days of worship, with our Bibles, and we ask God to move. 

The IF Gathering will take place at the Kennett Campus on March 3 from 6:30 pm. to 10:30 p.m. and March 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and to register CLICK HERE   Deadline to register is Sunday, February 26.

Any questions?  Contact Carole Hoy choy@willowdalechapel.org