I have been prayer walking the Community West property with my two dogs since the pandemic hit. When the pandemic shut the gates at Short Pump dog park, me and my friends met up here together. It was a great time of dogs and fellowship. We even had a pizza party one evening on the tennis courts. I’m that person who originally put up netting to keep my silly hound, Eli, from escaping and traversing the adjacent neighborhoods.

Through Emmaus I learned more about Community West as we (Robin, Karen, Laura) traveled together to teaming. It was through these times together that I heard about the opening and decided to apply and come serve at Community West.

My faith story began after having my first son; when my son was laid on my chest at birth I knew only but a gracious God could do something so wonderful. The great ‘hound of heaven’ pursued my heart and won it over and I was baptized in the James River as an adult; that was quite a day, the river was at flood stage. Take a peak at Francis Thompson’s poem to see the reference to “The Hound of Heaven.” It is fitting, this picture of God’s pursuit and work in me. God’s relentless love and pursuit of me is humbling.

Since 2012 I have been helping people in recovery and participating in a missional style community on Tuesday nights. God has placed a heart for people in recovery in me and you can find me helping others in my spare time(or walking my dogs on the grounds). The silver bullet, my van, has allowed many deep conversations to occur with others as I have helped people move or get to places that needed transportation help. I am a student of the Renovare Institute and Richmont University, where I have studied Spiritual Formation and Direction. The spiritual disciplines have opened the door to God in ways I never thought possible.

I am happy to be here and serving the community!

cheriem@communitywestchurch.org