Held

Growing up in the Catholic church, Odella Madeja once considered becoming a nun. But her deep love for her extended family and her desire to have children of her own led her down a different path.

Over the years, work schedules collided, children needed care, and in-laws required attention. Odella found herself giving everything she had to others around her. There was little space to breathe, and she felt held back from being spiritually renewed. Despite her longing, she and her family often felt alone - unsupported, unseen, and spiritually adrift.

After a move to Myrtle Beach, Odella and her family visited multiple congregations in search of a faith community. But she still couldn’t find that faith-filled support. The community she craved just wasn’t there.

Until she walked into St. Philip. In her very first visit, the warmth of the welcome caught her off guard. One member even offered her a gentle hug - a simple gesture that stayed with Odella. The hospitality immediately helped her feel the care and connection she had been missing.

This sense of care became even more evident during a difficult time involving her mother-in-law. Odella was overwhelmed. But this time, she wasn’t alone. Odella found herself surrounded by a church family - pastoral care, choir members, even those she’d only just met - offering compassion and presence. In that moment, Odella knew this is what church is supposed to be. She felt held by God and by a community who walked with her.

In many ways, Odella is now living out the spirit that once drew her to religious life - not by becoming a nun, but by walking faithfully with others, giving and receiving love in a community centered on God.

Today, she deeply appreciates Pastor Jason’s sermons and the chance to sing in the choir alongside John Sparkman and others. Sharing her musical gifts with a warm, caring group of like-minded people has become a life-giving part of her faith journey. She feels more connected to God than ever before, spending more time in Bible study and prayer, and giving thanks daily for the people who surround her.

After years of searching, Odella has found what she once only dreamed of: a place where she belongs. A place where she is seen, known, and held. Thank you for making that possible.