Back to stories

Stories of Transformation

Called Out of Darkness to Serve Others with Love

VeronicaVeronica arrived at Atlanta Mission two years ago, needing hope and a fresh start for her family. She shared her story of transformation with us last year.  She now wanted to share an update about all that God is doing in her life. 

After graduating from Atlanta Mission’s My Sister’s House one year ago, staff members challenged Veronica to take part in a year-long ministry training program at My Sister’s House. Though initially resistant, Veronica prayed, and God led her to take part in the training. She is so thankful that He did.

“The ministry program has really transformed me to give me a heart to serve.” 

As part of the program, Veronica worked in the kitchen at The Atlanta Day Shelter for Women and Children, where she learned humility and how to surrender control to God. This work also gave her a heart to serve those on the fringes of society and set the stage for what God was calling her to next.

“I can see a change in me as a professional and as a Christian.”

 

Veronica worked as a nurse for over 30 years prior to coming to Atlanta Mission. She did not expect to have an opportunity to return to her skilled profession. However, our God is a God of the unexpected and He placed her in a position as a Registered Nurse in the busy trauma center of a local Atlanta hospital. 

Her time in the ministry training program provided her with the tools to face life and death situations on a daily basis with compassion and peace. She learned to talk with God daily, moment to moment even. “I know God is the final author of every story and that He’s in control in the lives of my patients.” 

When asked about how she approaches nursing differently now, Veronica shares, “Previously, I felt like I was out there chasing money. I was very dissatisfied…Now, I’m at peace. I have a desire to really serve the people I work with. It is no longer a financial means for me. It is now a calling.”

During her free time, Veronica is working towards launching “Serve a Soul Save a Soul Ministry”. While at My Sister’s House, God gave Veronica a vision to join her culinary degree with her passion for people, to serve meals to those still living on the streets of Atlanta. “Not only do I want to nourish their bodies, but also, feed their souls.”

Looking to the future, Veronica wants to continue to serve those living in difficult circumstances. Whether bringing friendship and meals cooked with love to those in need or sitting at the bedside of a frightened patient, she believes that we need to meet people where they are and to fulfill God’s calling to love and serve.

And, maybe they will also find hope and a fresh start through Veronica’s transformed life and her love…