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 Ron Njus, who has been a member of APLC for over 35 years.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A: Having been a member of Abiding Presence for more than 36 years, I have witnessed numerous remarkable developments in its growth. Before moving to Texas, I lived in Hawaii and graduated from Chaminade University of Honolulu. I met my beautiful and smart wife, Mary Esther, in San Antonio. We have three wonderful children: Amanda, RJ, and Christian. Sadly, our loving angel, Amanda, passed away in 2018. We also have three beautiful grandchildren who currently live in San Diego.
Q: What do you enjoy the most about Abiding Presence?
A: Abiding Presence has always been a place of comfort and acceptance. I stay active by participating in many of the ministries and groups APLC has that serve others.
I have been on the breakfast teams for over 30 years (I thought they would have fired me by now for cooking bad French toast). I’m also a member of the sound and welcome teams. I have participated in the Martin Luther King March. I’ve also helped decorate Mission Partners Christmas cards, donated blood, and participated as a golfer in past APLC golf tournaments.
Additionally, I have assisted in building ramps for the Texas Ramp Project and worked on constructing homes for Habitat for Humanity over the years. Most recently, I served on the church’s council as Assistant Executive Director for 6 years.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: I love spending time with my family, traveling, and playing golf in my spare time (which is not as much as I want since I’m still working). I am an active member of the North East San Antonio Kiwanis Club, which is dedicated to helping the children of the world. I enjoy attending Spurs games, live music, and sporting events. My favorite football team is the Minnesota Vikings, which presents a problem living in Texas as most people like America’s team, the Houston Texans.
Q: Tell us about your Stephen Ministry experience.
A: I recently completed the Stephen Ministry training, which gives me another way to continue giving back to APLC and our community. I believe that God continues to work through me to help others. As a Stephen Minister, my life experiences allow me to listen to others in their time of need. Life is not always easy, but having someone to talk to gives comfort and acceptance when people are hurting and dealing with life’s difficulties. God is the ‘cure’ giver, and I am the caregiver. I am happy to be a small part of God’s plan to help others.