Richard (Dick) and Audrey Johnson have been members of Advent for over forty years. When they moved to Maple Grove from St. Paul Park, Pastor Anderson went to their home and invited them to Advent. Dick and Audrey wanted to join a church near their home to make it easier for their family to be active at church. In addition to attending worship services, Audrey and Dick have been wonderful volunteers. Audrey taught Sunday School, attended Bible study, and both she and Dick have been part of the prayer team. Dick has ushered and continues to usher. Years ago, he was part of the men’s group that volunteered to help do construction for native Americans and the Wapogasset Campground and helped to clean up part of Wisconsin that had been hit by a tornado. Dick remembered that a lot of members helped build the church. Dick joined others to clean up after the builders, and he assisted in installing the irrigation system. Dick commented that it was always fun working with the nice bunch of Advent volunteers.
Both Dick and Audrey enjoy people and have a good time being with new and long-time members of Advent. They enjoy fellowship time and feel that many Advent members have had a positive impact on them.
Audrey stated that “I have always felt spiritually nurtured at Advent”, as the pastors have always presented the Gospel. She said that all the pastors, which includes many interim pastors, have preached the truth of Scripture.
Advent flourishes because of the clear preaching of the Gospel, the friendships formed, and the volunteers who work and pray for each other. Thank you all for helping Advent flourish and grow as we continue to be a positive space in our community.
