As Widows Gather, Hearts are Mended
When Diana Portugal’s husband passed away, her world was completely changed. No one to share a meal with. No one to bounce ideas off of. No one to talk to as she drifted off to sleep. Reality was very different, and she missed what she once had. Knowing that there were other friends around her walking a very similar journey, Diana purposed to gather them together, and the Widow’s Aglow was birthed in Fresno, CA.
This group has built strong friendships and travels together from time to time outside of their Aglow meetings.
This year, a group of 6 enjoyed a trip to New York City. Diana said that a single mom with 5 children was able to come on the trip due to the generosity of others. All she needed to provide was her spending money. This was truly a highlight for all who attended, as they were able to attend a Broadway play.
Not only does the group get together for birthday dinners, but they also join up for a monthly movie night where they have appetizers with great fellowship before watching the movie. Diana said that everyone isn’t required to attend each outing, and those who do have a blessed time. She said that they don’t always talk about their common loss, but the shared understanding of what each other is walking is always present.
Earlier this year, Diana and a group of 6 went on a two-week trip to Paris and a Mediterranean cruise! A few other friends joined the trip, too!
The group has held educational seminars on trusts and wills to help members with practical planning. They take day trips to the coast or into San Francisco for fun and relaxation. They host prayer meetings with times of worship.
Last summer, the group used their talents and gifts to bless a local homeless encampment where they witnessed a miracle. One woman who was a little skeptical was healed and went from tent to tent, inviting others to come for prayer and food. The ladies loved reaching out with God’s love to bring joy to others.
This year, Diana said that those who don’t have local family will join her for Thanksgiving and Christmas at her home.
Both the widow and the orphan are important to God as seen in James 1:27; Ps 68:5; Deut. 10:18; Ex 22:22-23, Is 1:17
We would love to hear how you are reaching out to those in your community!
You ladies are wonderful. And ACTIVE!! I love how you travel together, making it so much fun, May of next year, will be 5 years since my husband, Ken, passed over. Out of curiosity, one day recently, I asked the Lord what Ken was doing. He was an author and involved in creative projects, so I thought he would be doing something like that. But the Lord said, “He’s not out of the throne room of worship yet!” That is really who Ken was but here on earth, one cannot worship 24/7, so it’s lovely that now He worships unceasingly and uninterrupted. I’ll know where to find him when it’s my turn to go home!