”HERE I AM, LORD”…….. Melinda Bernhard

I am first and foremost God’s own beloved daughter, a truth that transforms my thinking everyday. Having been blessed with a Catholic upbringing, I am thankful and aware that I still have not yet “arrived”—my faith journey continues each day and through God’s grace and abundant love He moves me and directs all my paths.

I attended Bradley University in Peoria, IL on a basketball scholarship and left with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree as well as my “M.R.S.” degree—sharing life with my wonderful husband and six beautiful children is an awesome joy and privilege and the way that I get to see “God with skin on”!

I am a 2001 graduate of the Lay Ministry Formation program in the Rockford Diocese with an emphasis on Family Life ministry. My ministries have included lector, 2nd grade catechist, Jr. High LEAD Team mentor (and camp nurse!), Coordinator of Moms Supporting Moms group, founding member and leader of the Fox Valley Catholic Bible Study for Women, and currently coordinating the development of Elizabeth Ministry at my parish, St. Peter Church in Geneva. I have worked in Adult Formation, including retreats and educational offerings. My real education in the faith, however, comes from living it each day wherever He leads me!

Using Scripture, Church teachings, humor, and real life “stuff”, I welcome the opportunity to bring Christ to your group for a “faith booster shot”, something we all need from time to time to remind us of what is truly important in our lives.

Topics include:

Blessing our Busyness

Reflections on Mary and Martha