people in pews/dotty behring

Whether it is singing a hymn to calm her soul or reading a devotion in silence, Dotty Behring tries to stay focused on her relationship with Jesus Christ. And because she wants to make sure her life is a reflection of Christ's love, Behring uses every opportunity to share that message.

She wants little credit for the work she does at Hanover Lutheran Church, where she and her husband, Rich, have been members since 1975. But the list of her activities is a lengthy one. Over the years, Behring has been a youth group leader, taught in vacation Bible school, Sunday school and has been president of the Ladies Aid.

She volunteers regularly around the church, helping to fold bulletins for Sunday worship or restocking pencils and cards in the church pews.

"Nobody has to tell me to be there," she said. "I want to be in the Lord's house."

For people who cannot attend worship because of illnesses, Behring comes to visit. She has regular visitations to some elderly members who now live in nursing homes. She's even been known to bring flowers picked from one woman's garden just so the woman can see them in bloom.

Behring even has a telephone ministry with another woman in the church. Both like to sing, so Behring keeps a hymn book by the phone just in case a request comes up.

Behring said her work in the church has been easy because her pastor, the Rev. Jeff Sippy, "always points me to Jesus."

Behring is also active in a birthday ministry at the church, making sure that every member receives a card on their birthday. "It helps me learn whoever I don't know," she said. But the cards are from the church, not herself, Behring emphasized.

On each envelope, she writes "Hanover Lutheran is thinking about you" and then includes the date of the person's birthday. The message inside is a simple one, but Behring tries to add something personal when she can.

Behring said her work is just a ssmall part of the church's ministry.

The most important things in life, Behring said, is that "her family knows Jesus, I know Jesus and everyone learns from me how to know Jesus."

Do you know someone who should be featured in People in the Pews? If so, call Laura Johnston, features editor, at 335-6611, extension 126 or e-mail her at ljohnston@semissourian.com.