If you’ve been part of Sedgefield Presbyterian Church for any length of time, chances
are you’ve been blessed by Jane’s kindness, faithfulness, and willingness to serve
wherever she is needed.
Jane joined SPC in 1983 after moving to the area and searching for a church home.
She visited several churches but never quite found the right fit. Then she attended
Sedgefield Presbyterian and immediately felt drawn in. The preaching of Rev. Jim
Wilson, the warmth of the congregation, and the sense of belonging she found here
made SPC feel like home. More than 40 years later, that feeling hasn’t changed.
When asked what faith means to her, Jane didn’t hesitate.
“I don’t think I would survive without my faith.”
Through life’s joys and hardships, her faith has been the anchor that has carried her
forward. She also credits her church family for walking alongside her through the years,
offering support, encouragement, and friendship.
Jane loves the way SPC cares for others. She is quick to point out that, while we may
be a small congregation, we have always had a big heart for serving our community.
“We do so much to help in our community with such a small group of people.”
She expressed deep appreciation for the many people who lead outreach efforts and
quietly work behind the scenes to care for others. Looking to the future, Jane hopes to
see the church continue growing while remaining committed to its mission of service
and compassion.
One scripture has been especially meaningful throughout her life: Philippians 4:13, “I
can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Jane says those words have
carried her through many difficult seasons and remind her that God is always present,
providing strength when we need it most.
Music has also played an important role in Jane’s faith journey. Among her favorite
hymns are Here I Am, Lord, Fairest Lord Jesus, and On Eagle’s Wings. Fairest Lord
Jesus holds a special place in her heart because it was her father’s favorite hymn.
As she reflected on church life over the years, some of her fondest memories involved
children and music. She loved the choir programs that brought young voices into
worship and drew parents, grandparents, and extended family members into the church.
Jane laughed as she remembered helping with the youngest children. They would sing
enthusiastically during rehearsal, but when it came time to stand in front of the
congregation, many would suddenly become very quiet!
One especially meaningful chapter of Jane’s life at SPC began in the 1980s when she
and Charlotte helped welcome a Montagnard family to the community. What started as
a volunteer opportunity became a ministry of friendship and support. Jane recalls
helping the family navigate daily life, church activities, and special events. She laughs
now about speaking loudly on the phone, only to have her son remind her that she didn’t
need to yell because they understood her perfectly well.
Over the years, Jane has learned an important truth about serving in a small church:
“You have to watch what you volunteer for!” A simple offer to help can quickly grow into
something much bigger. What began as assisting with clothing needs eventually led to
leadership responsibilities and deeper involvement in outreach ministries. Along the
way, she also served faithfully as a deacon and in countless other roles that have
helped strengthen our church family.
As our conversation ended, it was clear that Jane’s story is really a story about saying
“yes” to God, trusting Him through life’s challenges, and being willing to serve wherever
there is a need. Her faith, generosity, and quiet dedication have blessed SPC for more
than four decades.
Thank you, Jane, for your faithful witness, your servant’s heart, and the many ways you
have enriched the life of Sedgefield Presbyterian Church. We are grateful for you.
