JoAnn L. Welsh
June 12, 1943 - December 11, 2019

"My name is Monica Radel and I am the facilitator for Eagle's Wings Ministry at St. Bruno's Church. When this ministry for those experiencing a life-changing illness first began in 2016, I knew I was going to need some help. The first two names that came to my mind were Sister Josefa Ha and JoAnn Welsh. Both were very helpful, encouraging, and a great blessing in helping to get this ministry up and running. Just yesterday, we had our Christmas celebration which included a reflection entitled "Immanuel: God is With Us". JoAnn and Mike were both in attendance at our 2018 Christmas celebration and we had hoped they would come again this year. But JoAnn was with us in spirit as we recalled the joy she had brought to this ministry. I'd like to share a little excerpt of what I shared with our group; and at the same time, I'd like to share just a little of what JoAnn shared with us: "This is a good time to call to mind, with joy and thanksgiving, the memory of Jo Ann Welsh who passed away recently, on December 11. She was very supportive and helpful to me and the Eagle's Wings ministry. She helped me assemble the third phase of Eagle's Wings which deals with the five stages of loss and she also co facilitated with me until her husband retired. While reflecting on the Five Stages of Loss, JoAnn selected these scripture readings that she said were some of her favorites regarding the topic of 'Joy' because they spoke comfort and courage into her life: Matthew 5:9 "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."; Matt. 11:28-30 "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."; John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you; Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."; John 16:33 "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." May the peace and joy of Christ be with you as you hold the love of JoAnn in your heart."