Sue Nielsen

Originally from Wisconsin, I moved here with my husband 7 years ago.  I was looking for a new church home and Faith was the first church I visited.  I immediately felt comfortable in this amazing community that welcomed me very warmly. I moved ahead of my husband so I had a lot of free time.  I am a “joiner,” so I soon began to sing in the choir and play on the hand bell team.  Through church I even met a few of my neighbors which led to more social integration.

God has placed this wonderful community of Faith in my life to help me foster a deeper relationship with Jesus.  I was searching for more and slowly understanding how I already have my faith and love for Jesus, I just need to start listening more.  Also, I was introduced to the Jesus Calling devotional and find it speaks very clearly to me.   Just a few minutes each day helps me focus on my relationship with Jesus.

My Gifts

Gifts and passions are those inherent things that each one of us has.  As a working professional I participated in several personality profiles (like Emergenetics, Strength Finders and Love Languages).  The top themes for me were usually Responsibility, Positivity, Achiever, Includer, Arranger, and I am intuitive about people, socially aware, sympathetic, empathetic and enjoy learning from others.  Having retired from full time work I find that I am being fulfilled by using my gifts for hospitality and service at home, at church and in the larger community.

My Mission

Faith Lutheran and its community is a great fit for my gifts of hospitality and service.  I get a lot of pleasure out of socializing, making food for events and helping others as needed.  Making/taking food to members who need a brief time of assistance, including preparing food for the Family Promise program once a quarter, and participating in potlucks and youth fundraisers, is a joy.  I also initiated organizing dinners for new “sisters” participating in the One Year To Live retreat/follow-up.   I have been inspired to get to know my immediate neighbors so we started an annual neighborhood picnic now 6 years and going/growing. This year I also supported one of Michelle Santi’s callings to Pray Over Golden by inviting participants to our home to continue prayer and conversation at the breakfast table.