If you were looking for someone who embodied the virtues of loyalty and resiliency, that person would be Naomi. Because of a severe famine in the land, Naomi’s husband, Elimilech, takes her and their two sons from Judah in search of a better life in Moab. During their time in this new land, Naomi’s husband and her two sons died, leaving Naomi to care for her two daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah. Unable to care for them any longer, Naomi decided to return to her homeland of Judah. She encouraged her daughters-in-law to return to their birth families to be cared for. One of the daughters-in-law, Ruth, refused and went to Judah with Naomi. After some time of sorrow and loneliness, Naomi and Ruth were once again in Judah, living in the midst of family and friends. Ruth would later marry Boaz and had children, establishing the lineage of hope that would be the ancestry of Jesus. Ruth becomes the great-grandmother of King David. You can read more about Naomi and Ruth in the Book of Ruth.
Throughout our lives, there will inevitably be moments of sorrow and loneliness. It is our love for God, as well as our trust and loyalty to family and our circles of friends that will bring us comfort and peace. These relationships offer us hope and assurance that we are not alone. And so, we would like to introduce a new ministry here at the parish called The Friends of Naomi. So who might be a friend of Naomi? Someone who has lost a loved one, whether it be a spouse, a child or a friend; or someone whose family members live out of state; or maybe even someone who feels alone, because they are not a part of a couple when it comes to gathering with others for an event.
Questions? Please contact the Parish Office.