Hello Beloved Friends,
Thank you for taking time to invest in our lives. This bimonthly update brings great joy and sorrow. Allow me to explain.
Jonathan (9) and David (8) were baptized on January 14, 2024! My (Phil’s) heart felt deep joy and delight as I had the privilege to baptize them in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit! They are both growing in love with Jesus and were adamant that they wanted to be baptized. Jesus said there is great rejoicing in Heaven when someone repents, and Melanie and I are still rejoicing too (Luke 15:7)! Thank you Jesus for new life (Romans 6:4)! Thank you for your prayers! ❤️🙏🏻
The week after our last December prayer update Phil's mother, Margaret, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After a short, courageous battle with cancer, mom passed quietly on Monday, February 19, 2024, at Bob Kemp Hospice, surrounded by family.
Mom had just celebrated her 86th birthday the previous week. Mom and dad were marred for 65 years and dad turns 90 this year. Our hearts lament but my mother was a woman of deep faith. She loved Jesus and is now in God's safe, secure, and eternal embrace. Mom had a joyful personality and believed in the power of beauty, natural and cultivated, to draw others to a loving God – she nurtured magnificent gardens, played piano, sang in choirs and ensembles, and welcomed Bible study and reflection groups into her home. She was an amazing mom! 🥲😍
All who knew my mom were enriched by her love and compassion and by her appreciation for who they were. She will be remembered with great fondness.
A worshipful memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 2 PM at Centennial Park Baptist Church (11 Kennedy Rd, Grimsby, ON) with a small reception to follow. My brother Ken and I (Phil) will officiate the service. Our family would be honoured if you want to worship and remember with us. Thank you in advance for your support and love.
Therefore, we celebrate new life and resurrection hope. Great joy and lament. Life is full of oxymorons but God's love and faithfulness remain the same (Psalm 100:5). We are putting our trust in God. We treasure your prayers and ask that you particularly remember my dad at this time.
We love you! Until we meet again on earth, or in the presence of God, know that we cherish your friendship! We are family. Sending you virtual hugs! ❤️🥰🙏🏻
Your friends/family,
Phil, Melanie, Jonathan, David Styles