In the 1960’s in Minnesota a mixed marriage was a Catholic marrying a Lutheran. In the case of Tim and Joanne Miller, Tim was a former seminarian studying to be a priest. Well, love intervened and, with the support of their family, they married. During their early years they lived in Michigan, Germany, and finally ended up in Duluth, Minnesota where they had a baby boy. During that time the couple decided to leave Duluth and move back to the Osseo area. Neither Tim nor Joanne was going to church at that time even though they never lost their faith; however, having a child changed their view about church. They wanted to return.
Neither Tim nor Joanne insisted on the other changing church membership, but they knew what they wanted for their young family: an active youth ministry and a good music program. Both parents were active as kids in their respective churches, and Tim was involved in music in the seminary and at North Hennepin Community College.
In 1985 Tim and Joanne found their church: Advent. They both felt instantly welcomed, so Joanne became a member and Tim joined the choir. Joanne felt drawn to women’s ministry, so she looked for a circle. At the time the circles were filled, so Joanne started a new one that still exists. She felt supported with her first initiative, so she became active in planning women’s retreats and ultimately led Stephen Ministries. Tim enjoyed being in the choir and watching his kids participate in youth activities, so he decided to go on a men’s retreat. Pastor Dan and 20 men spent a weekend having fun and sharing stories about themselves. This event was life-changing for Tim. The men’s stories opened up feelings and ideas he had not previously confronted. After this moving event, Tim knew he needed to become a member. Since joining, he has served on call committees and was president of the congregation. Joanne and Tim’s faith is deepening. They love serving and participating in church activities.
Growing their faith was important; however, Tim and Joanne experienced an expansive view of faith when they had health issues: surgery and cancer. Both of them were overwhelmed by the support and love they felt from Advent in midst of their challenges. Meals, cards, visits, and calls helped them realize that church is a family of faith actively supporting each other. A new dimension of faith has emerged for them: receiving. As a family of faith, at some time all will experience facets of faith: loving, acting with commitment and love, and receiving. We are so thankful that countless members of Advent have demonstrated love, support, and facilitated faith journeys for others.
