When I moved here thirteen months ago, I was seeking help. I was physically ill and spiritually hungry. Brill Chapel was the “outward and visible sign of the inward visible Grace” I was seeking. It is a place where I could go and rest in the quiet; a place to gain strength to face difficult times. Besides the times I have gone there to be alone, I have enjoyed the wonderful programs there like Vespers, Concerts, and Bible Studies. In one of those concerts, the pianist, Gathan Graham, said he felt a need to play a certain song. It was “God Will Take Care of You” — a comforting message telling me I was in the right place.
Because my parents did not go to church, my upbringing was ecumenical — some relatives were Methodist; others Episcopalian. Sometimes I attended with friends and often a synagogue with my Jewish neighbors. I became Catholic 60 years ago. I continue to enjoy, as I was raised, to honor and respect all faiths. I love that there are speakers at Brill Chapel from different faiths. I join friends as we receive Communion from the Catholic Deacon in Brill Chapel weekly and I look forward to when we can again worship together when COVID restrictions are lifted.
By far, the biggest challenge this past year was the loss of my son, Danny. I loved going to vespers and hearing him being prayed for. I have shown him, and the rest of my family, the beautiful windows. After my son died last November 15th, we found a prayer in his kitchen that looked as though he prayed it daily. I want to share —- “The Third Step Prayer” (from the 12 Steps of Recovery.) God, I offer myself to Thee – To build with me and to do with me as Thou wilt. Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy will. Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of Life.” May I do Thy will always.
I was blessed to share recovery with him. He told me in Brill Chapel that I had found the right place, and he was accurate . May God rest his precious soul. Go with God – Jane Lepak
