by Jennifer AlLee (Abingdon Press, February 2010). When she married soon-to-be pastor Nick Shepherd, she thought she knew what she was getting into. It didn't take long to discover she was ill-prepared for the realities of being a pastor's wife. It took seven years and huge helpings of God's grace and mercy before she realized she was exactly where God wanted her. When this blog began, I elected Maura to be the moderator. Are you wondering why I chose a fictional character as the voice of the blog? Simply put, it was part of creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment for women to hang out and be themselves. But as the blog evolved, it became clear that the wonderful women who share here had no trouble finding their own voices. Over the last year, we've supported each other without letting our differences get in the way. It's amazing, beautiful, and just the way I hoped it would be.
Maura did what she needed to do. She got us started. Now, she's off continuing her fictional life, while we continue to support each other in the real world. Farewell, Maura. And thanks!
The Pastor's Wife Speaks is a safe place for women living on the front lines of ministry to share and support each other. But you don't have to be married to a pastor to hang out here. Regardless of how you're connected to ministry, you are welcome. Enjoy and be blessed!