Chaplain sees impact of God’s word daily
Pastor Ed Fredrich serves as chaplain at The Lutheran Home: Belle Plaine. Pastor Fredrich, who can’t believe that his JOB is to share God’s love with people, admittedly finds it challenging to pick which stories to share.
“It may sound like bragging, but I see the impact of God’s Word and Gospel every day,” said Pastor Fredrich. “It is hard to pick a story. It is not me; it is the good news I share and the person I represent.”
Pastor Ed recently shared these stories when prompted for examples.
- Ruth, a memory care resident at our skilled nursing home in Belle Plaine, Minn., was recently called home to heaven. Pastor Fredrich visited with her during the week that she passed and shared the Word of Jesus with her. She smiled as normal. Toward the end of the week, after visiting with Ruth, Ruth’s daughters asked for Pastor Fredrich to spend time with them reading scripture.
“It was a joy to share the confident trust that her daughters knew their mother had,” he explained. “Even though she was leaving this world, we could see that she was listening and understanding the words of John 11:25-26.” [Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”]
Ruth’s breathing and relaxed nature expressed peace. Not long after the devotion and prayers, Jesus received Ruth in the home that he had prepared for her.
- Visiting with residents during meals or after worship is common for Pastor Fredrich. Recently, after service, Pastor Fredrich sat down with a few residents, including one who had just moved in.
A longtime resident whispered, “He’s the pastor. He gives the comfort of God’s Word. He really has good messages.”
Keep in mind that a senior’s whispering is audible to all. “This brought joy to my heart, and I quickly said a prayer of thanks to the Lord for giving me this opportunity to share his love and grace,” explained Pastor Fredrich.
No matter the situation, our chaplains are the hands and feet of Jesus—working to ensure that everyone hears God’s Word.