“Stories of Discipleship” is a way to lift up stories of faith and discipleship from members throughout MNO Synod. These stories come out of the synod’s ministry priority of “Empowered Discipleship” and the invitation to discipleship received in and through baptism. We want to share how faith impacts and guides the life of our members, and how we can see God acting through the lives of others. We hope this will inspire us to look for where God is present for us, encourage us to grow in our own discipleship, and reassure us that we are not alone in living out our faith. If you would like to share your story of discipleship, contact the synod office.
An interview with Sylvia Nilsson-Barkman. Sylvia is a member at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Steinbach, and a member of the MNO Synod Council.
What are some ways faith shows up in your daily life?
Faith shows up in my life when I do not feel alone when I am experiencing a challenge, or when I am facing the stress of health conditions. My faith shows up in how I deal with concerns of family and friends, and in how I try to treat others as children of God in good and bad times. Another way my faith shows up in my daily life is by leading committees in church.
Who are some people who have inspired your faith or impacted you in some way?
Being raised in a Christian home, my mother and grandmother had the biggest impact. My father died when I was 9, and I watched my mother face many hardships and lean on her faith. She was a wonderful role model with an abiding faith and support for others.
Currently, I have been mentored by another church leader and have learned to serve with compassion and integrity. His abiding faith places God at the helm in serving others.
What hymns/songs/traditions/rituals are particularly meaningful for you?
My grandmother’s favourite hymn was Children of the Heavenly Father, so it is special for sentimental reasons. I like many of the contemporary songs being introduced. Also, I like Here I Am Lord, We Are Not Alone, Just as I Am, Great is Thy Faithfulness and others.
What is one message you hope people hear from the church?
I would like people to hear that they are loved, blessed by faith and supported in prayer.
What else would you like to share about the value or role of discipleship in your life and in the church?
Discipleship starts with faith that God will lead the way. While accepting the role of Sunday School Superintendent many years ago, I was afraid. I wanted to do the best for the children who would come to learn and experience Jesus’ love for them. My biggest hinderance was the deep-rooted respect I had for the physical church. I didn’t dare open as much as a cupboard door. In my new role, I had to fill the cupboards with learning and craft materials. Once the cupboards were opened, many other doors opened too. I grew in faith by supporting, mentoring and seeing both teachers and children growth in faith. Who knew that such a small gesture like opening a door would bring the confidence to become a servant leader in the congregation? This experience was the precursor to serving on various committees and the church council. Had I not had the experience with the cupboard door, I wonder if I would have overcome the fear of putting my hand and heart into the church. I am grateful God led the way!
