It was just another winter day, a bit chillier than the last, as I set out to take care of some errands around town. I had no idea that a simple meeting would bring me an unexpected gift, changing my life in ways I could never have imagined.

I’ve never been a fan of January. The sharp chill felt unyielding, with every gust of wind serving as a stark reminder of the lonely cold that winter ushered in. It was one of those days when the sky wore a dull gray coat, and snowflakes twirled playfully in the air, swirling around me as I made my way through the busy streets. After finishing my weekly grocery shopping and grabbing a few things from the dry cleaners, a wave of tiredness suddenly hit me. It was one of those cold afternoons when no matter how many layers you put on, the biting chill still finds a way to seep in.

As I took a moment to reflect on my blessings, I strolled by St. Michael’s Community Church. The majestic stone building stood quietly, its towering spires stretching up to the sky, shimmering softly in the pale winter sunlight. I walked in without a second thought, yearning for just a few moments of peace from the hectic rhythm of daily life. The interior was serene, with only the soft echo of my footsteps on the marble floor disrupting the stillness. I made my way to the sanctuary, looking for peace in the quiet around me.