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 Linda Menchaca.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A: I was born in San Antonio, Texas. I have five sisters and one brother. I was raised on the southside of San Antonio and graduated from Highlands High School in 1970. I met my husband, John Menchaca, in 1968. We were married in November 1970 and moved to San Diego, where John was serving in the United States Navy. After two years in the military, we moved back to San Antonio and started our family.
We have three children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, whom we enjoy visiting in Georgia and Florida. John and I have been married for 54 years. I have enjoyed being a full-time Mom and a wife. After raising our children, I decided to start my own business and founded an in-home cleaning service, which I managed for 35 years. I am retired, but I still enjoy working occasionally. My life has been fulfilled by my love for my family, friends, and all who God has placed in my path.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: My sister and I inherited a small business, which we have been managing for 14 years. John and I enjoy traveling and camping with our grandchildren, and we enjoy walking, riding bikes, and visiting the sites here in our beautiful city of San Antonio. We visit with cousins and friends whom we don’t see very often, but most of all, John and I have enjoyed spending time getting acquainted. “Life is a journey, not a Destination.”
Q: What do you enjoy the most about Abiding Presence?
A: I enjoy everything about Abiding Presence, but more so the abiding presence of Jesus. His presence reached out and invited me in. I have always felt the love of the people, the Pastors, the ministry, and the fellowship that it provides. It meets my spiritual needs. The moment I step into the building, I feel a sense of peace and tranquility. What I missed most during the Covid pandemic was attending Abiding Presence and the fellowship with “Mi Familia!” at Abiding Presence, “Jesus” has been the heart of our foundation for 45 years. A Place of Grace, All are Welcome.
Q: Tell us about your Stephen Ministry experience.
A: I have been a Stephen Minister for 14 years—the best training for helping others in their life’s difficult journey. I needed someone to listen to my struggles, and I felt like I did not want to burden my family. I met a couple from Abiding Presence, who were Stephen Ministers who God placed in my path, who listened and walked with me in my struggle. Going forward, it was God who chose me, and I am grateful for that calling. I will continue God’s work as he works through me as a Stephen Minister.