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Personal Stories

Hajara Barnabas, Surviving Spouse, Nigeria

Two years ago, Hajara Barnabas lost her husband, a pastor who served in Nigeria. Before his death, she worked "hand-in-hand" with him, preaching the Gospel, advising parishioners and encouraging women and children in the church.

As a widow, Barnabas says, "Some people you are close to run away from you." She advises other widows and pastors in the church to be optimistic. "Everybody has specific and numbered days on the earth. [You] have to focus your attention to Christ and continue serving God. At the end of the day, you receive the crown of life."

Barnabas is encouraged by the assistance she has received from The United Methodist Church. She believes that the support she receives is because of God, saying, "Remember, Christ takes care of us through all of us".

The Central Conference Pension Initiative was started to provide a retirement with dignity to pastors and surviving spouses like Hajara Barnabas. To find out more about the initiative, explore www.ccpi-umc.org or write to ccpi@gbophb.org. Donations can be made online or by calling (847) 866-4230.

Watch Hajara Barnabas' personal story