A Great Cloud of Witnesses

Posted on Oct 28, 2020 by Cyntha Schnaath

This coming Sunday I will be wearing a new white stole for All Saints’ Day (pictured here). The stole lists the names women from scripture, but many of the names are also saints that touched my life in my faith journey and in my decision to answer my call into ministry.

• I had two beloved aunts — Esther and Martha — who taught me as a child the blessing of hospitality. They were both wonderful bakers, and I loved their homemade breads.
• Lydia Kalb was the first Latina woman ordained in our denomination. I became acquainted with her when I was in seminary, and she was a powerful witness to the gospel.
• I have had the honor to visit and witness Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s installation as the first presiding bishop of the ELCA. She is such a down-to-earth person who continues to inspire me.
• I have served congregations with Ruths, Eunices, Marys, Rachels, and many others not on the list.
• I especially think of my mother, Jan, and her friend Sue. They were such cheerleaders for me!

There have been many women who guided me in my faith and my call to ministry. Some are still with us today, and some have entered their eternal homes. They were all a great cloud of witnesses.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.
— Hebrews 12:1

Peace,
Pastor Cynthia Schnaath

Tags: Weekly Word