Tell the church?

My surgery is coming up in a few weeks and I've been struggling about who I should and shouldn't tell about this surgery. The issue is complicated by the fact that we don't have any family close to us so we usually rely on the church( I know this is good). But the fact is that we are going to need help with our little ones and the housework. We've already told those in our Family Group and none of them are home during the day. I definitely wouldn't feel comfortable having the pastor announce it like he usually does for other surgeries. But I'm concerned because I know that I need lots of prayer and the church should be the ones praying for us. Anyone else had this struggle? It seems more stressful than thinking about the actual surgery! Thanks, Cara

Cara, I have had the same dilemna...My small group knows and will pray of course, but I think I will be brave and put it down our prayer chain. It goes by email to pretty much everyone, which is scary. We need the prayer, but it is sort of personal. But, if the Body of Christ can't support us, who can. Does your church have a prayer chain? Laurie

Thanks, Laurie It helps to know that someone else is going through this struggle. The church has a "prayer warrior" team. I could let them know. You made a really good point about who can support us. I think the Lord is testing me because sometimes I think that I can do it all by myself when there are people out there who want to help. If you don't mind me asking, when is your surgery? Thanks again, Cara

Not until December or January. I don't have a date yet, but it is a 6 month program and that should put me at the end of it! Laurie

Hello Cara, I did tell my women's bible study. We belong to a big church so it's something he doesn't annouce from the pulpit. I'm so thankful I let them know because they brought meals for my family for almost two weeks which was such a blessing. Maybe you can talk to your pastor and explain how you need prayer, but you would feel more comfortable with him not telling what kind of surgery your having. You'd be surprised on the support you will get. Also for extra prayer they have prayer chains you can sign up on the internet. There's a church called the Tabernacle (I'm sure if that is the correct name) but we have written to them many times for prayer. They have an awsome pray group that prays 24 hours. Try to remember that God already knows your needs and he will supply all of them and more. Blessings Geri

I'm new to this board, but I'm gonna put my two cents in anyway. I told my Wednesday night Bible class first. Then I was asked if I wanted to put on the prayer list (goes out to almost everyone by email). After thinking for a few minutes, I decided yes. My thought process was, yes this is very personal, but so is cancer, heart attacks, and most other surgeries. And - it's not like the people in the church can't see that I am obese (it is kinda obvious). And finally - I'm only going to make it with the Lord leading that surgery - I want all the prayers I can get. You'll be in my prayers and good luck!!! Brandi RNY 8/13/04