By Pastor Frank De Luccio
“It started with a story on YNN News about a son who wanted to honor his father,” says LCC attender Glenn Goodridge about a whisper he received from God. According to the news story, Jim Gennarino lost his father to cancer 10 years ago. He was bothered by the fact that his father, Chief Petty Officer Bernie Gennarino, was buried in a pauper’s grave in Dallas, TX, and never received a proper naval burial after serving his country for 23 years.
For two weeks, God kept whispering to Glenn, “Call YNN to get in touch with Jim,” until he finally did. Within two days of obeying the whisper Glenn and Jim met for coffee and discussed Jim’s dream to move his dad from Dallas to Rochester for a proper burial with naval honors. What makes this story so interesting is how God orchestrated things behind the scenes. You see, Glenn is on the board for the Fairfield Cemetery in Spencerport, and felt God’s leading to help Jim’s dream come true. Glenn presented this opportunity to the board and they agreed to give a burial plot to Jim in the Veterans Section of the cemetery, at no charge.
Jim began plans with the Patriot Guard in both Dallas and Rochester to have his father’s remains exhumed, cremated, and transported to Rochester. Glenn and Jim remained in touch throughout the process and their friendship grew during this time. Glenn said one day he received a call from Jim when the plans to move his father were not going so well. Glenn sensed that Jim was stressed, so he asked Jim if they could pray together. Glenn said, “After praying, Jim’s countenance changed and the conversation turned to the Bible.” Glenn understood that Jim was open to discussing spiritual matters, but that he had a hard time understanding the Bible.
All throughout this time, Glenn shared this story with his Community Group so they could be praying for Jim and the plans to move his father. “I was so pleased how our Community Group was interested in this situation and prayed. That meant a lot”, said Glenn.
Finally, everything was set and on October 29, 2011 there was a full naval burial service with a 21 gun salute, taps, a flag folding and presentation of the flag to Jim. The Patriot Guard was there in full force protecting the funeral service.
After the service, Glenn presented Jim with a new NIV Bible and directed him to begin with the Gospel of John to better understand the love of Christ. Glenn and Jim remain in touch weekly. While Jim has not taken Glenn up on his invitation to come to church yet, Glenn feels he is close and continues to pray for Jim.
When asked for advice on listening for the whispers of God, Glenn responds, “If you’re not sure whether or not it is a whisper from God, step out in faith to see if it is God directing you.” You may never know the full power of a whisper and how many people will be touched by it until you do.
group has continued to meet while studying Randy Alcorn’s book Heaven. We were impressed by the potential for growth, the acceptance of diverse opinions and encouragement of those in different stages along their walk with Christ. The group enjoyed learning together and shared powerful and enlightening personal experiences. We also bonded while sharing snacks and silliness!
Do you want more opportunities for prayer in your life? Pathways Prayer Team has lots to offer. You could serve in our Prayer Corner, help with Synergy prayer time, or become a Prayer Point Person for another ministry you are already involved in. God is opening the doors for more prayer and we want you to be included in that blessing.
