Each month, Abiding Presence will highlight a Stephen Minister, showcasing their unique journey and the inspiration behind their commitment to serving the community. This month’s feature is on Gizelle Henricksen.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A: I am the proud daughter of parents who immigrated from Cuba. I was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and spent a part of my childhood in Brazil and Peru. In 1966, we moved back to the United States and settled in a Virginia suburb of Washington, DC. I graduated from Virginia Tech and received a Master’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
After 40 years of working as an elementary/middle school teacher and school administrator, I retired in 2020. I feel very passionate about helping needy children who face many challenges in their lives. My husband, Larry, and I met through a local running club. Our passion for long-distance running brought us together. We have a blended family of 5 sons and 10 grandchildren.
Q: What do you enjoy the most about Abiding Presence?
A: The first time I attended APLC, I knew it was where I wanted and needed to be. I felt such a sense of peace, welcoming, and calm. It is truly a place of grace where all are welcome. I feel at home and comfortable. God led me here – what a blessing! Serving and helping others is very important to me, and I love all the ministries available to do so. Ministries I have participated in include Welcome Team, Children’s Bereavement Center, Ramp Build, VBS, and Altar Guild. Through the APLC community, I have formed good friendships and met some extraordinary, caring, and kind people.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: Spending time with our family and grandchildren is very important to me. Attending their school functions and sporting events is such fun. Running with friends, socializing, and competing in local foot races are also things I enjoy. I love to be outdoors enjoying gardening, camping, and hiking. I volunteer weekly at a nonprofit organization and tutor students in reading. Completing jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, and learning a new language are also things I find fun to do.
Q: Tell us about your Stephen Ministry experience.
A: In 2019, through the encouragement of Donna and Hayden Stewart, I completed Stephen Ministry training. I am so grateful to be a part of this wonderful ministry. The relationships I have formed with our other Stephen Ministers are so special. For the past three years, I have had the opportunity to serve as a co-leader with Sheryl Stanton. Her help and support are invaluable. Being a caregiver to others is very fulfilling and humbling. Although we are there to support and listen, God is there to cure. The care receivers whom I have cared for have touched my heart and made me a better person. I feel I have grown in my faith because of this ministry.