FEBRUARY DISCIPLE OF THE MONTH:
IRENE BARTOSH
How long have you been a member of Saint John’s? What brought you here? What is your church background?
I was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Union until it closed in 2019 for over 40 years. I was married at that church and both my daughter and son were baptized there and made their confirmations. As a member, I held the office of Treasurer and then President and I was the first woman President in the history of the church. After Grace Lutheran Church closed I was searching for another church to join and visited churches in the area but didn’t feel a spiritual connection. After my first visit to Saint John’s, I was drawn in by the welcoming atmosphere and Pastor Blake’s clear insightful message. Then when I heard my favorite hymn, Lift High the Cross, I knew that Saint John’s was a church community for me.
What is your favorite thing(s) about Saint John’s? What about Saint John’s inspires or excites you?
I am inspired by the idea of being part of a faith community where people support one another and serve something greater than themselves. The sermons offer valuable lessons that guide my faith and the opportunities to serve others is very important to me. Saint John’s is very involved with reaching out to various community organizations to help those in need. This gives me a deeper sense of belonging to a community of believers.
Tell us something about your hobbies, work, family, pets, secret talent.
I will be married 46 years in March and I have two children. My daughter works in the Communication Department at Verizon and my son is a US Marshall and manages the Newark Office. We have one granddaughter who is 10. We enjoy spending time with her and attending her softball, soccer and basketball games. I retired in December 2024 after working for 36 years for a real estate developer in the area. I enjoy crocheting which I just recently learned. Made a few things for gifts for my family and friends. I enjoy working out with weights at the gym and walking. We have a family vacation every year at the beach and enjoy being all together for the week. I like to bake although I only bake for the holidays and for coffee hours at church. My crumb cake and apricot/raspberry squares are my signature treats.
What ministries are you involved in?
I am on the Stewardship Committee and was involved in the Radical Grace Capital Campaign last year. I enjoyed working with the team. I also serve as a greeter and usher.
What is your favorite Bible verse, hymn, or church season?
My favorite hymn is Lift High the Cross. My favorite church season is Christmas. The Christmas Eve service is very beautiful and uplifting. The music accompanied by the brass is so beautiful!