A Mother’s Legacy, a Season of Surrender, and So Much to Celebrate☕🌸

Dear Friends,

Mother’s Day always brings a rush of sweet memories—and this year was no different. On Sunday, we celebrated with our son Derek and his wife Ashley. Derek grilled the most delicious ribs and Ashley had an incredible spread. I only managed to get one photo that day—with Derek—but the food and fun was overflowing.

On Monday, we cheered on our 9-year-old granddaughter, Charlotte, at her baseball game—she’s the only girl on her team and the starting pitcher! Eight strikeouts in the first three innings! Go Charlotte!

This Mother’s Day, I’ve also been thinking a lot about my mom. She passed in 2008 at the age of 86, but her joyful spirit continues to shape who I am today. She was the kind of mom who made life a party—especially for me and my friends. Even during tough times, she found a way to make things fun, memorable, and full of life. One of my favorite memories is when we memorized James 1 together, laughing and making memorizing fun!

The verses that still echo in my heart are James 1:2-4:

“Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

My mom taught me to be thankful—especially during trials. Surrendering to the Lord in those moments doesn’t make us weak—it makes us whole. Her life was a testimony of choosing joy and trusting Jesus no matter the circumstances.

One of my most treasured photos of her and me, was taken at Fairmount Homes, where she spent her final days. Though a lovely and traditional Mennonite woman, in her last years she delighted in getting her nails painted—something she never would’ve done earlier in life! It still makes me smile. She lived with us for 17 years after my dad passed and I’m forever thankful for that time. She was my best friend and I miss her so much.

What’s New at Cavod

Whew! It’s been an incredible few weeks—and God has truly been on the move at Cavod!

✨ April 27 – Project Dance in Times Square, NYC:

Citylight Dance Theatre (our amazing teen company) and Ornate (our young adult professional company) danced boldly in the heart of NYC, sharing the gospel through movement with Project Dance. It was powerful, joyful, and unforgettable!

✨ May 2 – Cavod Fundraising Gala:

A sold-out night celebrating 20 years of God’s faithfulness! Great food, fellowship, stories, worship, dance… and $94,570 raised! We were overwhelmed with gratitude and joy.

✨ May 7 – Chicken BBQ:

1,700 leg & thigh dinners grilled to perfection—and SOLD OUT! We raised $18,000. Thank you to our volunteers and supporters for making this a huge success!

✨ May 9&10 – “My Heart, Your Home” by Ornate:

Three incredible performances that truly ushered in the presence of God. Through dance, testimonies, and worship, many lives were touched and hearts were set free. I’m beyond proud of our team!

Coming Up at Cavod

📅 Enrollment Opens June 1! We’re gearing up for our new school year starting this fall. With over 140 weekly classes across our Manheim and New Holland locations, there’s something for everyone! Be sure to visit cavod.org to sign up early. 🎟️ Spring Dance Concert – June 11-13 at Lancaster Mennonite Fine Arts Center Don’t miss this beautiful showcase of our students’ hard work and growth. It’s always a highlight of the year! Tickets available now—details at cavod.org. 🌍 Cavod Goes to Africa – June 18–July 7 I’m leading a team to Kenya and Cape Town for two incredible arts camps. We’ll be teaching workshops in hip hop, contemporary, acro, vocals, and more—pouring into young people and using the arts to share God’s love. More details to come!

As I reflect on all that’s happening, I’m reminded of the promise in Psalm 27:13–14:

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart;

Wait, I say, on the Lord!”

We will see His goodness, friends. Even when we’re weary, even when we’re waiting. Keep trusting, keep surrendering—and keep your eyes on Him.

A Prayer for You Today

Lord, thank you—even in the trials—for the breakthrough You bring. We surrender once again to You, with full hearts and open hands. Help us to walk in Your joy, to trust You more deeply, and to rest in Your perfect timing. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Be encouraged today. Stay rooted in the Word, especially when life feels hard—and don’t lose heart. Your breakthrough is coming. And hey, coffee helps too ☕🙂