All About Peace of God Ministries
Peace of God Ministries is a lay ministry founded by Diane "Angel" Hussey. It started in response to a request from one woman at the Senior Fair in McHenry County, IL. It is simply a ministry of touches, hugs and hymns, primarily with seniors in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other programs for seniors.
Here is the story of how Diane became an "Angel" and how Peace of God Ministries began.
Working as a caregiver for Angels By Your Side, Diane was asked to help at McHenry County’s Senior Fair – handing out brochures and information. She said “Sure, I’ll help, but what you truly need is the proverbial ‘Angel By Your Side’ in costume.”
They said “Great idea! You’re it! Go out and find the costume.”
So in 2003 Diane started dressing up as an angel for the senior fair, and asking everyone, “Have you been touched by an angel?” and then giving them a touch or a hug if they said they wanted one. She had found her calling. The owner of the company said "You should see the looks on their faces when you give them a hug." She didn't need to see their faces, she could feel it.
The responses to the Angel in costume are amazing. There is often a tremendous energy and connection with people during the hugs. People who don't smile much anymore, give great big smiles. They tell stories and shed tears. Some embrace with great energy, and some melt in a feeling of peace.
At the 2006 fair, a woman saw her husband’s attitude improve so much after getting a hug, that she asked if the Angel ever went into nursing homes or assisted living facilities, to give touches and hugs to the residents who are not able to get to the Senior Fair. After getting approval from Angels to use their costume, and lining up several events at local nursing homes, adult day care facilities and assisted living facilities, Peace of God Ministries was created.
Going into adult day care, assisted living, and nursing homes is much different than the environment found at the senior fair, and it soon became apparent why it took years before being called to serve God and seniors in much different and often more challenging environments.
A tremendous amount of personal and spiritual growth was needed to be an "Angel". Daily time spent in prayer, reading the Bible and devotionals were needed to prepare for some of the experiences that lay ahead. According to an article on angels, the Hebrew and Greek word for angel also means "messenger". Angels are messengers of God who are sent out to accomplish the purposes of God.
Wow, what an awesome responsiblity and opportunity! Much time is spent in prayer before, during and after doing "the Angel Experience" - that God's message is heard and felt, and that the Holy Spirit will flow through touches and hugs.
The senior fair was fun - smiling, touching, hugging - Almost everyone loves an angel. They tell about their angel collections, say they've already gotten a hug from an angel (their spouse, a friend or family member) etc. and comment on the costume, and the shoes - the angel wears walking shoes.
In nursing homes or assisted living facilities it can be a lot of fun, but there are more serious comments, questions, or incidents.
Without the Lord's help, Diane would never have felt equipped to deal with such situations. Many tell her what wonderful work she is doing, and that she is very special. But her response is, "It is not about me - my hope is that everyone I touch will feel the peace, hope, strength, and comfort of God. I pray they will experience His love."
Lately we hear people talking about AHA! moments. Those who have a relationship with God may call them God moments, revelations, or epiphanies. It is when His will is revealed, in thought or through affirmations found in devotionals, Bible reading, situations or circumstances. Diane states "Nearly every day at least one if not all my reading is EXACTLY pertinent to the situation I encountered, or what I need."
The name Peace Of God Ministries comes from two sources - the peaceful feeling that comes from the touches and hugs, and Philippians 4:7. Many are familiar with Ph 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. But they are not as familiar with Ph 4:7 And the PEACE OF GOD which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. "These two verses are a source of strength and comfort to me, and I pray for all that I touch as well."
Diane works with each facility to provide the best program for each particular facility and the resident's needs - whether a group program, or as she is led individually to each resident. The ministry continues to evolve as the Lord leads, and according to the facilities' accommodations and desires.
Peace of God Ministries is based in Wonder Lake, IL. and is a volunteer program operated by Diane Hussey.
For more information, or to schedule an event in the Northeast Illinois area, contact info@peaceofgodministries.com.