Lorna Philander, the saint who runs the “Peter & Heidi Crèche”[1] underwent a double mastectomy on Tuesday. I had the opportunity to visit her on Thursday. Chemotherapy had caused hair loss and I was embarrassed for not immediately recognising her. However, she soon had me feeling at ease. In fact she made me feel like I was a “royal dignitary” and proceeded to call down rich blessings upon me, and all of DMC. Some people have that wonderful capacity don’t they? Even in their time of need and pain, words of grace flow like a pure, sparkling fountain from within them.
Those of you who’ve had surgery will be familiar with those moments of anxiety as one waits to be wheeled into theatre. Lorna told me how a lady waiting with her was sobbing with fear. As Lorna closed her eyes she saw DMC and knew she was held up in prayer. “Don’t worry”, she said to her fellow patient, “God is with us”. Many of our small groups have been praying for Lorna. She wants you to know that God has carried her through; she is filled with gratitude because of our prayers and the on-going assistance from Wendy and our Social Concerns team.
Lorna displays what James calls “Wisdom from above” she is “gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings” (Jas. 3:17, The Message).
God Bless,
Sean
[1] The Peter and Heidi Crèche provides loving care to children at risk in Atlantis.