Moving Forward

by: Celeste Falvo (A minister’s widow)

I have been a member of More Than Conquerors for twenty years. However, my real relationship with this group started about seven years ago.

     In the beginning, it was a group that I resented being a part of because it reminded me that I had suffered a tremendous loss. That all changed five years ago when I received a card. Receiving cards or phone calls on specific days was not unusual. In fact, Marlene Martin, the founder of More Than Conquerors, and Cindy McKinley, the current Director always reached out, but I couldn’t bring myself to respond.

     In June of 2017, I received a card from Cindy with a little note saying, “I would really love to talk to you.” At that moment I became upset, but felt God’s prompting to pick up the phone and call her. I fought it and became even more upset. But when I got up the courage to call her, she answered in her amazingly sweet, calm voice and said, “I'm so glad you called!” I’m embarrassed to say that my first few words to Cindy weren’t all that nice. I don’t fully remember what all I said, but Cindy said it was something along the lines of “I did not want to call you, but God told me to! You and your ministry are nothing but a reminder that my husband has died and all that has changed and been lost!” Cindy, in her loving fashion, remained calm and compassionate.

     From that day forward, we have developed an amazing friendship and ministry relationship that continues to grow. This relationship is opening doors beyond anything either of us ever expected! I am so thankful, even in my grief and hurt, that I was obedient to the Lord! It’s a privilege to minister to other ministers and their spouses because we need help too!

     Moving forward!