Women Behind the Words

Episode 50 - Finding Identity, Faith, and Family with Michelle Lazurek

Date: October 29, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Michelle Lazurek

 

Story Highlight:

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! In this special episode, we’re thrilled to host Michelle Lazurek, award-winning author, speaker, and literary agent. Michelle joins us to discuss her latest book, Hall of Faith: Remembering Ordinary People Who Trusted an Extraordinary God, releasing today! Michelle opens up about her difficult childhood, sharing how a sense of unworthiness and seeking approval shaped her early life. When she found Christ in her early 20s, her conversion caused a painful rift in her family, leading her parents to ask her to leave home. Despite the hardship, Michelle found strength in her new faith, leaning on a supportive church family and eventually reconciling with her own family.

Michelle’s story reflects her journey of resilience and obedience, stepping out in faith to follow God’s call and sharing the importance of small acts of kindness as demonstrations of our love for Christ. In Hall of Faith, Michelle emphasizes that showing faith doesn’t mean grand gestures; rather, it’s choosing godly actions over worldly responses in daily life. By doing this, we point people to Jesus and the way He showed us to live a godly life. Whether helping a friend, supporting family, or praying together, each small action reflects a powerful faith.

 

About the Guest:
Michelle Lazurek is a multi-genre award-winning author, speaker, pastor’s wife, and mother. She contributes regularly to iBelieve.com and Crosswalk.com and reviews films for Movie Guide Magazine. She is also a literary agent with WordWise Media Services. Michelle’s writing journey began at a ladies’ retreat in 2009, where she felt God’s call to write. Since then, she’s authored numerous books, including Becoming the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved and her latest release, Hall of Faith. Michelle’s work is all about engaging her audience in a way that makes them feel valued and connected. She and her family reside in Connecticut, where they enjoy collecting ‘80s memorabilia and time spent with their spirited dog.

 

Book Spotlight:
Hall of Faith: Remembering Ordinary People Who Trusted an Extraordinary God by Michelle Lazurek

Releasing today, Hall of Faith is a transformative devotional that encourages readers of all ages to recognize that demonstrating faith doesn’t always require grand gestures. Michelle emphasizes that simple acts of kindness, standing up for others, and selfless service in daily life can point others to God. Through powerful stories of biblical and modern figures, Michelle shows how we can find purpose and express our faith in seemingly small actions. Each devotion includes reflection questions and scriptural insights to help readers align their lives with God’s teachings. A perfect reminder for families, this book provides practical ways to live out the faith with intentionality, compassion, and love.

 

Key Takeaways from Hall of Faith:
One of the central messages in Hall of Faith is that children and adults alike don’t need to perform huge acts to show their faithfulness to God. Instead, demonstrating faith often happens in everyday interactions—whether it’s being kind to a friend, standing up for someone, or helping a person in need. Such actions reflect the belief that God is real, His Word is true, and that Jesus serves as our ultimate example of godly living.

• Small Actions Matter: Acts like sharing, kindness, and standing against bullying are ways to live out faith. By choosing compassion over cruelty or peace over retaliation, we mirror Christ’s love to others.
• Faith in Everyday Moments: Small acts of generosity and service, like donating supplies or sending a card, create ripples of God’s love in our communities.
• Family Faithfulness: Families can model faith through communal prayers, volunteering, and simply living out God’s Word in daily routines.
• Living Counter-Culturally: When we respond differently than the world might expect, we point others to God and His truth.

 

Connect with Michelle:

• Website: Michelle Lazurek
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: Michelle Lazurek Author
  • Instagram: @michellelazurek
  • Twitter: @MichelleLazurek

 

Michelle’s story and insights in this episode remind us of the power of small, everyday acts to make a lasting impact. We hope her message encourages you to look for opportunities to share God’s love in your own life and with those around you.

Episode 49 - Finding Faith and Mentorship: Naomi Fata’s Journey of Discipleship and God's Guidance with Naomi Fata

Date: October 16, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Naomi Fata

 

Story Highlight:

Welcome back to The Women Behind the Words! Today, we are blessed to have Naomi Fata return to share her journey and the incredible story of mentorship and discipleship that deeply transformed her life. Naomi takes us back to her early years when she desperately longed for a father figure after losing her father to cancer at the age of seven. She prayed for years, believing that her mother might remarry and she would have a new dad, but that was not to be. Instead, in an unlikely setting—a gas station convenience store—God brought someone else into her life.

Naomi shares the beautiful story of how an older man named Walt stepped into her life, becoming a mentor, spiritual father, and friend. This unique and non-traditional relationship spanned many years, with Walt continually investing in Naomi’s spiritual growth. He not only provided wisdom and guidance on her spiritual journey but also played a key role in her personal life, including advising her on whom to date and eventually marry. Naomi’s story reflects the profound impact that intentional discipleship and godly mentorship can have on one’s life, especially in terms of experiencing God’s love in the small, everyday moments.

Walt’s gentle, fatherly influence helped Naomi see the importance of being available, aware of others' needs, and investing in the small things—reminding her that true ministry often happens in everyday life. Through this mentorship, Naomi grew in her understanding of Christ’s love, healing from past wounds, and learning what it means to walk with Jesus in daily life.

 

About the Guest:

Naomi Fata is an author, professional sewist, and homeschool mom of three. She writes God’s Corner for her local newspaper and has a passion for inspiring others to use their God-given gifts in their circles of influence. Naomi’s first book, Beyond Head Knowledge: Knowing Christ Who Satisfies Our Hearts, dives into the depth of truly knowing Christ beyond intellectual belief. In addition to being an author, Naomi has also created two sewing-themed journals.

Naomi’s next project is her upcoming 13-week devotional, Stitching Your Story Piece by Peace, which will be released in February 2025. This devotional focuses on pursuing the peace of God in all areas of life while weaving in sewing themes that reflect Naomi’s creative background.

Beyond her work as an author, Naomi enjoys the role of a homeschool mom, sewing, and encouraging others through her ministry.

 

Book Highlight:

Beyond Head Knowledge: Knowing Christ Who Satisfies Our Hearts
In her book, Beyond Head Knowledge, Naomi explores the difference between intellectual belief in Christ and truly knowing Him on a heart level. This book is an invitation to go deeper with Jesus, moving beyond surface-level faith and experiencing the personal and intimate relationship He desires to have with each one of us. Naomi provides practical insights, reflective questions, and encouragement to those seeking to go beyond just knowing about Christ and truly living for Him.

 

Connect with Naomi:

• Website: Christian Resource Ministry
• Sign up for Naomi's Newsletter: Christian Resource Ministry Newsletter
• Bi-weekly Sewing Circle Email: Sewing Circle Email

Stay tuned for Naomi's upcoming devotional, Stitching Your Story Piece by Peace, coming in February 2025!

Episode 48 - The Delight of Being a Fiction Writer! with Heather Smith

Date: October 8, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Heather Smith

 

Story Highlight:
Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! We’re thrilled to have Heather Smith with us today, a talented and prolific fiction writer whose storytelling journey is truly inspiring. Heather’s unexpected venture into fiction began during a day at the beach, when a character came to life in her imagination while her children played in the ocean. The experience felt so real that she began taking notes, wondering if meeting fictional people like this was normal! This spark ignited her love for writing, and she’s embraced the creative journey ever since.

As Heather enters a new season of life, she’s discovering a passion for speaking, which feels like a natural progression for her. In our conversation, she encourages all of us to stay faithful to the calling God has given us, trusting that He will equip us with everything we need to fulfill His plans. Heather reminds us never to underestimate God or limit what He can do—our job is to be willing and to go, leaving the outcome in His capable hands.

Romans 8:28 is a recurring theme in Heather's books: while life may not always be easy, God works all things together for good for those who love Him. Her joy and passion for storytelling are contagious, and you won’t want to miss this delightful and faith-filled conversation with Heather!

 

About the Guest:
Heather Norman Smith is a gifted author of five novels, all set in her beloved home state of North Carolina. Through her writing, Heather aims to both entertain and encourage readers, while shining a light on God’s redemptive love. In addition to fiction, she has published a 30-day devotional and contributed to numerous nonfiction collections, including Chicken Soup for the Soul. A passionate speaker, Heather loves encouraging believers to use their unique gifts and talents to serve the Lord.

She lives just outside of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with her husband, their four active children, and a menagerie of pets. Along with writing and spending time with her family, Heather enjoys singing about Jesus and spreading joy through her speaking engagements.

 

Book Highlight: 'Songs For A Sunday' By Heather Norman Smith 
Two sets of sisters, generations apart—can one big sister’s sacrifice teach the other about love and forgiveness?

1963: Twenty-year-old Annie dreams of managing the dance studio where she has trained since childhood and marrying her high-society boyfriend. But when her younger sister, who has special needs, becomes pregnant, Annie is forced to put her dreams on hold to care for her family.

Present Day: Missy Robbins has always felt overshadowed by her younger sister. Now, as a stay-at-home mom of four, Missy steps out of her comfort zone to pursue her own dreams and prove she’s as talented a singer as Erica. This new journey leads Missy on a path of self-discovery and renewed faith—until she uncovers a 60-year-old family secret from her grandmother’s past. Will Missy protect Grandma Annie’s hidden truth, or will she be forced to reveal the deception?

 

Connect with Heather:
Website: www.heathernormansmith.com
Instagram: @heathernormansmith
Facebook: Heather Norman Smith
X: @hnsblog

Episode 47 - Transforming Health: Christine Trimpe's Inspiring Story of Recovery with Christine Trimpe

Date: October 1, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Christine Trimpe

 

Story Highlight:

Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! Today, I’m thrilled to have Christine Trimpe join us to share her remarkable journey toward weight loss victory and life transformation. Christine broke free from her "sugar shackles," shedding over one hundred pounds, and embraced a life overflowing with joy, health, and freedom through what she calls her "take ownership experience."

After her transformation, God instilled in Christine a deep passion for inspiring and motivating women to live healthy lives, both physically and spiritually. She invites women everywhere to experience the life-changing power of living "SugarFreed." As a multi-award-winning author, speaker, and health coach, Christine’s story is a powerful testament to what it means to live well in both body and soul. Learn more about her journey at ChristineTrimpe.com.

 

About the Guest:

Christine Trimpe spent decades living as a casual Christian until one day, she picked up her Bible, and Jesus transformed her life. Her faith deepened, and she found new joy, calling, and purpose in sharing the freedom found in Christ.

Christine's journey led to a dramatic 100-pound weight loss, and her story has been featured on numerous podcasts and in major publications, including a cover feature in Woman’s World, and articles in First for Women and Reader’s Digest. Her inspiring journey is also highlighted as one of the top inspirational success stories on DietDoctor.com, the world’s largest low-carb website.

This transformation catapulted Christine into a new career as a Certified Health and Wellness Coach, where she has guided hundreds of women to successful weight loss and a deeper spiritual connection. As the founder of The SugarFreed™ Me Method and Community, Christine offers a program and membership site for women who want to live healthier, Christ-centered lives. Beyond coaching, she’s also an award-winning author, entrepreneur, and speaker.

Christine passionately encourages others to shed the extra weight they’ve been carrying, both literally and figuratively, and step into a life of joy. God’s Word can satisfy every craving—body, mind, and spirit. Connect with Christine at ChristineTrimpe.com.

 

Book Spotlight:

SugarFreed: Stop Losing the Weight Loss Battle, Start Gaining the Victory

Are you tired of battling with weight loss? Do sugar cravings and unhealthy eating habits keep you feeling chained and discouraged? Christine Trimpe, a Certified Christian Health and Wellness Coach, invites you to join her on a transformative journey from being weighed down to claiming victory in your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

In SugarFreed: Stop Losing the Weight Loss Battle, Start Gaining the Victory, Christine shares her personal journey from struggling with food addiction to embracing holistic health. Her story carries a powerful message of hope, offering practical steps to break free from the cycle of yo-yo dieting and embrace freedom.

In this book, you'll discover how to:

• Confront chronic health issues and begin the healing process.
• Fuel your body with wholesome choices that honor your health.
• Transform your mindset to break destructive food behaviors and patterns.
• Feast on God’s Word to satisfy the true cravings of your soul.

"For almost five decades, I craved freedom but couldn’t name the missing piece of my soul. It took me fifty years to find it, and once I did, I couldn’t share it fast enough. Jesus offers the freedom we need, and He is everything to satisfy the hunger of our entire being—in body, mind, and spirit. Living SugarFreed transformed my health, which can transform yours, too." — Christine Trimpe

 

Connect with Christine:

• Invite Christine to Speak: Christine Trimpe, Speaker
• Website: www.christinetrimpe.com
• Advent Book: Seeking Joy through the Gospel of Luke

A Free Gift for You: The “Crush Your Cravings Guide” gift: Crush Your Cravings: The Ultimate Wellness Guide for Christian Women

 

Social Media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter
• YouTube (@ChristineTrimpe)
• Pinterest
• LinkedIn

Episode 46 - Redeemed, Restored, Repurposed with Cheryl Schuermann

Date: September 24, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cheryl Schuermann

 

Story Highlight:

We're excited to welcome Cheryl Schuermann, author of Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary, to this episode of "The Women Behind the Words." This year, Cheryl's book was honored as the 2024 Devotional Book of the Year at The Golden Scroll Awards Banquet. Her devotional takes readers on a heartfelt journey, sharing the real-life story that God wove into the construction of her family's farmhouse.

Many years ago, Cheryl's in-laws purchased 55 acres of farmland, praying that it would one day become a generational homestead. Though they didn’t see it fulfilled in their lifetimes, their vision lived on through their son, Stan, his wife Cheryl, and their four sons, who would eventually bring this dream to reality.

After caring for both sets of parents until their passing, Cheryl and her family began building their farmhouse in 2016, despite facing the emotional challenges of losing all four parents within months of each other. Amid grief and Cheryl’s health struggles, God provided peace, giving them "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness" (Isaiah 61:3a). Throughout this process, God taught them valuable lessons about simplicity, comfort, and finding His presence in the ordinary moments of life. Cheryl envisioned the farmhouse as a place of warmth, security, and consistency, inspired by her cherished memories of childhood visits to her grandparents' homes.

One of the most significant moments for Cheryl was discovering old church doors in a shed on the property. These doors became a symbol for everyone who crossed their threshold, representing God’s power to redeem, restore, and repurpose even the most worn-out things. Just as Cheryl and her husband built their farmhouse using old materials, God takes us—broken and discarded—and transforms us into vessels of His glory, ready to make a difference in the world.

Cheryl shares how God continued to teach her lessons at every turn. As they built a spacious pantry, she was reminded of God's endless provision. Unlike her pantry, which constantly needs replenishing, God's storehouse is always full, providing all we need.

Cheryl encourages us to slow down, spend time with Jesus, and seek Him in His Word daily—not only for our benefit but so that His love can overflow to others. Today, "The Farm," as they affectionately call it, is a place of refreshment for family, retreats, meetings, and ministries, and it has become a revolving door of warm hospitality.

Inspired by Habakkuk 2:2, Cheryl and her family wrote down their vision, hoping that future generations would live lives of faith and continue as a family that loves God. They are now witnessing their prayer come to life.

 

About the Guest (Bio):

Before transitioning to writing full-time, Cheryl Schuermann dedicated her professional career to literacy education as a classroom teacher, consultant, and curriculum trainer across the United States. She is the author of five traditionally published books, including her debut devotional, Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary (Bold Vision Books, May 2024), which was recently named the AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Devotional Book of the Year.

Cheryl is actively involved as a president of Word Weavers International and is a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and Christian Authors Network/CIPA. In addition to writing, she facilitates a caregiver support group in her community and, for the past 25 years, has mentored and taught parents at her local church.

Cheryl finds joy in spending time with her family, which includes her four sons, four daughters-in-love, and thirteen grandchildren. They are her inspiration and the source of many of her stories. The Farm is her favorite place to write, be with family, and host ministry groups.

 

Book Spotlight:

Farmhouse Devotions: God’s Glory in the Ordinary invites readers to embark on a journey that reveals God's truth and wisdom in everyday experiences. From picture rails and antique church doors to prairie flowers and sticktights, this sixty-day devotional blends sound biblical truth with the timeless charm of farmhouse living. The book includes original artwork and family-friendly recipes, making it a delight for readers seeking both spiritual nourishment and a taste of simpler times.

Cheryl Schuermann invites everyone who finds refreshment in shady porches, simpler moments, and comforting truths to join her on this journey. With each devotion, readers are encouraged to grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and meditate on God’s Word. Farmhouse Devotions is a warm invitation to experience God’s glory in the ordinary and discover how He meets us in the most unexpected places. Welcome to The Farm!

 

Connect with Cheryl:

• Facebook Personal: Cheryl W. Schuermann
• Facebook Author Page: Cheryl Schuermann Author
• Website: https://cherylschuermann.com/

 

Episode 45 - A Glimpse of His Glory ~ Pam’s Near Death Experience! with Pam Farrell

Date: September 17, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Pam Farrell

 

Story Highlight:
Join us for an incredible and moving episode of The Women Behind the Words as we welcome our guest, Pam Farrell, to share her life-changing experience detailed in her latest book, A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience. In this episode, Pam opens up about her true story of crossing into Heaven, describing the indescribable beauty and peace she experienced, as well as her profound conversation with Jesus.

Pam vividly recounts the moment she entered Heaven, where she was surrounded by breathtaking beauty beyond words. She shares the warmth and love she felt as she communicated with Jesus in a way that transcended language, leaving her deeply comforted and forever changed. Through Pam's eyes, you'll hear about the extraordinary colors and imagery of Heaven, painting a picture that will stir your soul and fill you with anticipation for your own eternal home.

If you’ve ever wrestled with fear about death, Pam’s testimony offers reassurance and comfort. She explains how Jesus sent her back to Earth with a clear message—her purpose was not yet complete, and there was still work to be done for His Kingdom. Pam’s story reminds us all that life here has purpose and meaning, and when our time on Earth is over, a place of overwhelming love and peace awaits us in Heaven.

This episode will leave you feeling inspired and comforted, knowing that death is not the end, but rather a beautiful transition into eternal life with our Savior. Pam’s storytelling will transform how you think about life, death, and eternity, offering hope and excitement for the day we all meet Jesus face-to-face.

 

About Our Guest (Bio):
Pam Farrel is an international speaker, relationship expert, and the author or co-author of 61 books, including her latest, A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience. Together with her husband, Bill, she co-directs Love-Wise ministries. The couple resides on a live-aboard boat in Southern California. When not traveling to speak or busy writing, Pam enjoys time with their three sons, daughters-in-law, and seven grandchildren. She also finds joy in beach walks, kayaking, and relaxing with a warm latte while admiring God’s stunning sunsets.

 

Book Spotlight:
Do you have questions about:

• Life after death?
• The hope of Heaven?
• Medical diagnoses?
• What happens when we near death’s door?
• Whether there is a Creator God?
• How does faith bring peace in a crisis?
• Your life’s mission?
• Whether the Bible trustworthy?

Pam Farrel takes readers on a transparent, honest journey from her vibrant life as a Christian speaker and writer to the ICU, where she was in a coma and on the brink of death. In A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience, Pam shares her roller-coaster health journey and near-death experience with incredible detail and emotion. As you navigate these questions and explore life’s most important relationships through her story, you will find answers to some of life’s most vital questions, including the meaning of life, the reality of death, the promises of scripture, and the hope of Heaven.

 

Link to Amazon:
A Glimpse of God’s Glory: One Woman’s Near-Death Experience [Amazon Link]

 

Free Download:
Infectious Joy 30-Day Ebook on Joy
Download Here

 

Connect with Pam:
Pamela Farrell Author: Pam's Facebook
Bill and Pam Farrell on FB: Bill and Pam's Facebook
Instagram: @Lovewise62
Pinterest: @pamfarrel

Episode 44 - YOU Are The Missing Puzzle Piece! with Liz Pitman

Date: August 20, 2024
Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Liz Pitman

 

Story Highlight:
Join us for an uplifting and inspiring episode as we welcome Liz Pitman, the award-winning author, speaker, educator, and founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. You’re in for a treat as Liz shares her incredible journey of creating Pete, the Puzzle Piece, a character who has touched countless lives. In this episode, Liz reveals the heartfelt story of how Pete came to be, and how this simple character has profoundly impacted her life and the lives of others.

Through touching accounts, Liz shares how Pete resonates with people of all ages, even bringing grown men to tears as they recognize themselves in his journey. She delves into the power of personal stories, emphasizing that, like Pete, we all have a unique place in the bigger picture. This episode will inspire you to embrace your identity, recognize your value, and find freedom in knowing where you belong in God’s family.

As Liz introduces Pete’s story, you’ll discover the importance of your own unique place in the world and walk away with the joy and confidence that comes from embracing who you truly are without the pressure of trying to be someone else. This is an unforgettable episode that you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a delightful conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged, inspired, and ready to celebrate your own unique role in life’s grand puzzle. Listen now and prepare to be inspired by Liz Pitman and her heartwarming creation, Pete the Puzzle Piece!

 

About the Guest (Bio):
Liz Aldred Pitman is the author of Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece?, and the founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. Her work centers on establishing identity, purpose, and worth through understanding who we are in God’s eyes—His incredible masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10).

Liz has spent ten years working and teaching in Christian education, where she found great joy in guiding today’s young leaders. She holds an English Literature degree from Mississippi College and also attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she deepened her relationship with the Lord.

With a heart for missions, Liz has spent several summers volunteering at food banks in Israel and served on the USA Board of Bridges for Peace for three years. Her greatest joy is spending time with her family, especially with her son, Joshua, who has inspired many of the characters in her books. Liz’s desire is to help people realize their value and purpose, encouraging them to step into their vital, God-given destinies.

To learn more about Liz, her books, and the Masterpiece Collection, visit her website at petethepuzzlepiece.com and follow her on social media: @LizPitmanAuthor.

 

Book Spotlight:
Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece? is a children’s book with a message that speaks to all ages about identity, worth, and purpose. As readers journey with the main character, Pete, they find themselves reflected in his story. Pete struggles to fit in and tries to be like every other puzzle piece in his town. After numerous attempts to be anyone but himself, Pete feels like a failure. Unable to recognize his unique gifts, Pete leaves the town of Jigsaw and runs from his purpose. On his journey, he meets a kind-hearted boy named Will, who sees Pete’s potential and encourages him to return and pursue his dreams. This encounter sparks an incredible friendship and a joyful surprise as Pete returns to Jigsaw and steps into his God-given destiny.

Liz A. Pitman has spent a decade working in Christian education, guiding and inspiring students. She holds a degree in English Literature from Mississippi College and has deepened her faith through studies at Calvary Chapel Bible College. With a heart for missions, Liz has volunteered at food banks in Israel for several summers. Her first love is Jesus, followed by her husband and her precious son, Joshua. Liz’s mission is to help people recognize their value and purpose, encouraging them to step into their God-given destinies.

 

Connect with Liz:
📞: 850-206-9618
📧: hello@lizpitman.com
💻: petethepuzzlepiece.com
Facebook: @lizpitmanauthor
Instagram: @lizpitmanauthor

Episode 43 - A Well-Watered Garden with Cynthia Fantasia

Date: Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Cynthia Fantasia

 

Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! We are thrilled to bring you one of our most impactful interviews to date. As I chatted with Cynthia Fantasia, her soothing voice and profound sense of contentment and peace resonated throughout our conversation.

Cynthia spent ten years teaching in a prestigious school district in Lexington, MA, and loved every moment of it. One night, her pastor called with an invitation to join the church staff as the Pastor of Women. Initially, she declined, content with her current position. However, after 18 months of wrestling with God, she realized this was His plan for her future. She faithfully served her church for the next 25 years until she felt God calling her to retire, not from ministry, but from her role as Pastor of Women.

Shortly after her retirement, Cynthia faced a life-changing moment when her husband Bob was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Alzheimer’s Disease. This devastating news altered their lives forever. Her experiences with Bob's illness and her role as his caregiver are beautifully detailed in her book, "In the Lingering Light," and she shares these insights with us in this episode.

Cynthia's story is conveyed through the beauty of the Lord and His faithfulness. She organizes her life journey into two simple, poignant lists, making her interview one of the most powerful episodes we have ever aired.

Listening to Cynthia recount her husband's last words will erase any doubt, uncertainty, or fear you may have about facing challenging times. We are reminded that we serve a Living God who never leaves us alone. Even in our darkest moments, God is our Lingering Light.

 

About the Guest (Bio): Cynthia Fantasia served as Pastor of Women at Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, for 25 years. Now enjoying a 'busy' retirement, she dedicates her time to mentoring younger women in ministry and speaking in various settings.

Cynthia has a deep passion for helping people grow in their faith and leadership. She joyfully serves on the Board of Leadership Transformations and speaks both nationally and internationally. Her first book, "In the Lingering Light," chronicles her husband's journey through Alzheimer’s Disease and her role as his caregiver.

Additionally, Cynthia is a contributing author in several books and has written numerous Bible studies that are used in churches across the country. She has three adult children and five grandchildren. Cynthia enjoys long walks, great books, time by the ocean, and seeing the world through the eyes of her grandchildren.

 

Book Spotlight: In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Cynthia Fantasia

Alzheimer’s is a particularly cruel disease, slowly and subtly robbing us of the people we love. Our love is tested as their needs increase while their recall decreases. Our own needs often suffer neglect as more of our time and attention is given to our loved ones.

Cynthia Fantasia is a caregiver who has walked this challenging path. In her deeply understanding and empowering book, In the Lingering Light: Courage and Hope for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver, she guides readers through the landscape of caregiving—both for their loved ones and for themselves.

Fantasia introduces readers to friends and fellow travelers who offer their own words of empathy and insight, creating a supportive community within the pages. Through her narrative, she empowers caregivers to live well, despite the heavy demands of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.

This book is a beacon of hope and a source of strength for those navigating the difficult journey of Alzheimer’s caregiving. Fantasia’s compassionate approach provides the encouragement needed to maintain personal well-being while offering the best care possible for loved ones.

 

Connect with Cynthia:

Website

Email

Facebook

Youtube