Wisconsin — Denise Klingman has lived next door to the Milwaukee Northwest Church in Wisconsin for the past eight years. One day Ric Swaningson, Milwaukee Northwest pastor, was outside the church and noticed Denise in her yard. Wanting to be friendly, he took time to introduce himself. As they were getting acquainted, Swaningson invited her to join the church family at an upcoming Wednesday night prayer meeting.

Denise decided to come as his guest; she discovered how nice the service was and how friendly members were. She said the members were caring and understanding, something she had never experienced in a church. She also enjoyed the spiritual lessons being presented from the Bible. At Milwaukee Northwest, the Wednesday night meetings focus on the mission of the church, and presentations are centered on reaching out to those who don't know Jesus.

Observing her positive response to the prayer meeting services, the pastor invited her to also come to Sabbath School and worship services each Saturday morning. Everyone was grateful to see her attending the Sabbath morning services and Wednesday night meetings.

When church members George Washington and Margo Swaningson befriended her, she opened up her heart to these new friends. She shared with them how her life had not been satisfying and of the emptiness she felt inside. They talked with Denise about how committing her life to Jesus Christ would bring a new happiness as she experienced His salvation. They also explained to her what the Bible taught, how to live as a Christian, and then invited her to commit her life to Christ through a beautiful baptism service. Since Denise’s heart and life had changed, by God’s grace, she joyfully responded and was baptized on January 17, 2004.

Today Denise beams with love for her new church family because they are always there to support her. She is also thankful that no matter how busy her pastor may be, he always takes time for her. Most importantly, she now has Christ in her life and feels happy inside — especially when she walks into the Milwaukee Northwest Church. She believes the true friendships she found there helped win her heart to Jesus.

Debbie Laudon as told to Bruce Babienco, volunteer Lake Union Herald correspondent