 by Kelly Johnston We’ve loved spending the month of October learning about Hannah Parrish, an incredible young woman whose faith and devotion are evident in her actions and words. We’ve already shared some of Hannah’s Lakeland activities. But when prompted to share the full scope of her involvement, Hannah softly shares the following list. “I volunteer with K through 4th grade students on Sundays and high schoolers on Wednesday nights. I helped with the 20/20 dinners, I’m involved with the River, now the Women’s Contemplative Retreats and random events as I’m needed.” When the team comments on her dedication, Hannah gives us a bashful shrug. “Lakeland is my second home.” To wrap up her interview, Pastor Marta prompts Hannah to share another passion. Hannah gives us a shy smile. “I enjoy decorating cakes.” “She’s like an artist,” Marta adds enthusiastically. “Well, I did a three-tiered cake and I’m doing my cousin’s four-tiered wedding cake in May.” Hannah’s cakes have included traditional wedding cakes decorated with elegant greenery, hearts and rings, a towering, colorful confection that perfectly replicates the Cat in the Hat and a unicorn cake bedecked with pink roses. “You will eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice with your household in everything you do, because the Lord your God has blessed you.” -Deuteronomy 12:7  ABOUT MY STORIES
Every month Pastor Marta Gillilan and members of the Lakeland Social Media Team interview an individual, couple or family. From struggles in faith to joyful events, Lakelanders are sharing their stories through the “Humans of Lakeland” blog series. Get to know the people who call Lakeland home.
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 by Kelly Johnston Hannah stays busy at Lakeland, from retreats to volunteering with the church’s youth. One group she especially joins being a part of is The River. From worship nights and prayer to dances and field trips to local events, The River provides a haven for burgeoning adults as they navigate life in college and after graduation. Hannah has embraced the young men and women who make up The River, including attending events like “The Last Chance High School Dance,” The Exit Room, First Fridays in the Crossroads District and trips to the Louisburg Cider Mill. But when asked about what she loves so much about The River, Hannah shares that while the social aspect is fun, it’s the support for her navigating life with with Christ that means the most. “The River has been a place for me to grow spiritually. You do life with them and go through the highs and lows with them and they’re there for you. They support you with wherever you’re at and let you feel whatever you want to feel.” She pauses, her voice growing thick as she reflects on the support and love this incredible group of men and women have provided for her. “I always worked to experience God, and coming to that point where I was just okay, just letting him show me who He is, that was awesome.” “The Lord will fight for you, you only need to be still.” -Exodus 14: 14 ABOUT MY STORIES Every month Pastor Marta Gillilan and members of the Lakeland Social Media Team interview an individual, couple or family. From struggles in faith to joyful events, Lakelanders are sharing their stories through the “Humans of Lakeland” blog series. Get to know the people who call Lakeland home.  by Kelly Johnston
We’re sitting with Hannah Parrish in Lakeland’s lobby, relaxing on the leather sofas as she shares her story. Hannah shares that she’s recently committed to participating in another ministry: Women’s Contemplative Retreats. She leans forward, hands clasped together as talks. “Something I’m excited about is the Women’s Contemplative Retreats. I signed up for that and it’s very exciting to experience God with other women and see what their life journeys have been and learn from them and their experience.” When asked about what motivated her to try something new, she laughs, a pale pink appearing in her cheeks. “Before I attended Lakeland I thought retreats were for lazy people who were just trying to get away from life.” She pauses and holds up a hand. “But,” she says with a smile, “once I got here it allowed me to see all the benefits, slow down and to see God in everyday life, where he’s at, where he’s working. It’s been an amazing way for me to connect with God, one I didn’t picture before.” ABOUT MY STORIES Every month Pastor Marta Gillilan and members of the Lakeland Social Media Team interview an individual, couple or family. From struggles in faith to joyful events, Lakelanders are sharing their stories through the “Humans of Lakeland” blog series. Get to know the people who call Lakeland home. |
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