When Chris Hein returned to the northwest suburbs from Memphis, Tennessee, he was married to Christel and had a dog named Athena. As they explored church homes, they did attend Advent occasionally because Chris grew up in the church. However, Christel was Catholic, so they visited Catholic Churches as well. When their son Austin was born, the family attended a Catholic Church in Dayton, where he was baptized. As time went by, both Chris and Christel felt they needed to consider other options. They came back to Advent. When they returned, they were a family of four with the birth of Sophia.
Austin entered Sunday School where he blossomed, and Christel appreciated how loved and supported she felt as Austin’s mom. When Sophia entered Sunday School, she had the same wonderful experience her brother had had. The family became very connected with Shannon, who led the children’s ministry at the time. When Austin and Sophia’s grandpa died, Pastor Elizabeth was loving and nurturing to the children. As the family got more connected, they got more involved. They loved the tour the church organized to inform members about the history of Indigenous people and their sacred sites in the metro area.
The power of feeling welcome and included has birthed a committed family to the mission of the church—-to be good stewards of Advent’s ministry of faith, love, and service. Today, Chris serves on the council and a worship team. Oftentimes, Sophia will usher with her dad or serve communion. Austin likes to read in church and loves to be in the kitchen. The whole family loves working with LuAnn on church projects. Even though Shannon, Pastor Elizabeth, and LuAnn were instrumental in this family's involvement, LuAnn’s cinnamon rolls sealed the deal. Austin and Sophia love those cinnamon rolls!
During this stewardship month, members will declare their commitment for 2025. Giving money and volunteering time out of love for God, neighbor, and self will provide gifts beyond measure—-and also a cinnamon roll or two😉 To the Hein family and all members of Advent, thank you for your stewardship.
