seminary campus . The church continues to be a beacon of biblical teaching and outreach these many years later .
A former member of the church , Cristiano Bernardo , now serves as one of the pastors . He said , “ Pastor Mike always encouraged me . His life awakened a desire to become a pastor in my heart . He was a great example of character and dedication to the kingdom of God , a leader , and a visionary .”
Lorena loved life and its simple pleasures . She was sensitive to the feelings of others and easily connected with people . She counseled and discipled women . She also led women ’ s Bible studies and led devotionals for young women at a home for unwed mothers . Lorena stood by Mike ’ s side as his wife and a loving and dedicated mother to their three children . Her sweet and gentle spirit encircled all who knew her . She was a gifted painter and homemaker .
When retirement came , Mike and Lorena moved near their daughter ’ s family in Erie , Pennsylvania . Lorena was then diagnosed with Alzheimer ’ s disease , which she battled for 17 years . Mike epitomized unconditional love as he cared for Lorena all those years , feeding her lunch and dinner daily . One friend , Ron , whose wife also suffered from Alzheimer ’ s , wrote , “ What impressed me most about Mike was his deeply moving and passionate love for Lorena . When my wife and I visited them , he would proudly show us her paintings and tell us of her other accomplishments .” Lorena passed away in September 2016 .
Mike continues to be active in his church , teaching a Sunday school class , preaching at various churches in the Erie area , and visiting residents in the nursing home where Lorena spent her final years .
photo page 18 : Mike and Lorena Murphy photos page 19 , top : Lorena disciples a Brazilian woman . bottom : Mike and Brazilian coworker Benvindo Laertes plan for a Saturday night coffeehouse .
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