Glory to God For All Things

Prayers for a Dear Friend of Us All

I spoke by phone this morning with Michael Bauman, for years a faithful part of our conversations on the blog. He shared with me that he is now in home hospice care (in Wichita) and has been given a terminal diagnosis. His faith is truly evident in his conversations, even as those present their own struggles.

I was struck particularly by his “joy” which he says seems to persists beneath everything. This is a gift from God.

Please keep him in your prayers and remember his wife, Merry. May God grant him paradise and a place with the saints. I will keep our community posted with any further news.

About Fr. Stephen Freeman

Fr. Stephen is a retired Archpriest of the Orthodox Church in America. He is also author of Everywhere Present: Christianity in a One-Storey Universe, and Face to Face: Knowing God Beyond Our Shame, as well as the Glory to God podcast series on Ancient Faith Radio.

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54 responses to “Prayers for a Dear Friend of Us All”

  1. Joan Kakascik Avatar
    Joan Kakascik

    God Bless you as you approach our God in Glory. Thank you for the love given to othrs which spreads far and near.

  2. Fr John Vaporis Avatar
    Fr John Vaporis

    We love you Michael.
    Christ is Risen!
    Fr John Vaporis

  3. Jason Seta Avatar
    Jason Seta

    Thank you for sharing this sad news and his joyful witness, Father. Prayers abound.
    Br. Jason Peter

  4. Dean Avatar
    Dean

    Thank you Fr. Freeman for the post and photo, though it saddens my heart to hear the news. Yes, Michael and Merry have been an integral part of this community through the years. I always have enjoyed his thought provoking comments and Merry’s down-to-earth, home-spun notes.
    If you two read this, know that you are in our loving prayers to our man-befriending God in Christ Jesus.

  5. Rhonda Joy Ashby Avatar
    Rhonda Joy Ashby

    Dear Fr Stephen & Michael,
    Thank you for sharing. Our prayers are with you both and Merry. Christ is Risen! And with Him all of His own. Lord have mercy upon the bitter and the sweet.
    Joy

  6. Byron Avatar
    Byron

    God hold him and Merry close and have compassion and mercy on them! Thank you, Father, for providing this update.

    “This is the day the Lord hath made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.”

  7. Barbara Avatar
    Barbara

    Christ is Risen!
    I have enjoyed many of your comments over the years, Michael. Your insight and sincerety come through, and no matter the topic, you write with respect and compassion. A sincere thanks to you for helping this convert through some delicate and challenging issues.

    I will pray for you and your family in the days ahead. God bless you. ☦️

  8. Bonnie Ivey Avatar
    Bonnie Ivey

    Michael, I have always loved your posts; so wise and heartfelt. Your delight in serving the Lord always comes through. I will pray for you and Merry. Thank you for sharing so much with us.

    Bonnie

  9. Margaret Avatar
    Margaret

    Dear Fr. Stephen, I, too, am grateful to see this beautiful photo and appreciate Michael sharing this news. Merry and Michael and all who love them are in our prayers.

  10. Allen Long Avatar
    Allen Long

    Michael,
    Through the years, I have been strengthened in my faith by the wisdom of your comments.
    May God grant you a strong ending and great comfort to your wife.
    Thanks be to God for His wondrous working in and through your life!

    Allen Long

  11. Matthew Avatar
    Matthew

    Michael,

    Thanks so much Michael for your contributions here. It has been very good getting to know you over the past few years.

    I thank God for you and what you have offered us all here in this space. Your faith is a testimony to all.

    Matthew

  12. Matthew Avatar
    Matthew

    We will be praying for you and Merry.

    Peace my brother.

  13. Hélène d. Avatar
    Hélène d.

    Thank you, Father Stephen, for sharing this news about Michael with us ; it’s so unexpected !

    Dear Michael, may the Lord, whom you love so much and whose faithful servant you are, grant you strength and confidence, and preserve this joy within you despite this trial.
    He is risen, our God and Savior !
    May the All-Holy Theotokos watch over and surround Merry with her ineffable tenderness !

  14. Katherine Avatar
    Katherine

    Prayers also from a sister in Greece ….

  15. Denise Avatar
    Denise

    Thank you for letting us know, Father.
    Michael and Merry will be in my prayers. 💗🙏

  16. Dino Avatar
    Dino

    Michael is already in our heart, how can he not? and I am sure that the All Holy Mother of God has a veil of Grace over him and over his wife.

  17. Burwell Noyes Avatar
    Burwell Noyes

    Lord have mercy on our dear brother!

  18. Eliza Avatar
    Eliza

    I only briefly commented here and it has been probably a year or so since the last time though I have continued to read on and off in my spiritual wandering.

    Michael has been one of the most wonderful people in these comments or any comments anywhere. Kind , humble, and friendly and I’ve found his stories of encounters with angels to be intriguing and moving.

    Prayers for you and your wife, Michael. Hopefully, you’ll be back here. In any case, prayers for peace and God’s divine blessing on you.

  19. Jenny Avatar
    Jenny

    May God bless Michael and Merry. I will be keeping them in prayer, knowing that the Lord keeps them both in His loving hands.

  20. Justin Avatar
    Justin

    Mr Bauman,

    It is a rare opportunity to be able to tell someone you love them before their funeral. So, I thank you so very much for your kindness and wisdom to me on this forum, and your love (such as it can be online like this). You and your dear wife certainly have my prayers in this time. When you get there, please pray for me.

    With love in Christ,
    Justin (a Brother from Colorado)

    (Fr Stephen can you pass this on to Michael if he cannot be on this chatbox anymore?)

  21. Kenneth Avatar
    Kenneth

    Michael, you are deeply loved! This news today brought tears. Thank you so much for your faithful witness and Christlike spirit. You and Merry are in our hearts and prayers.

  22. Ook Avatar
    Ook

    Michael, your contribution to this community is immeasurable. You are Merry are in my prayers.

  23. Seraphim Avatar
    Seraphim

    i’ve enjoyed Michaels responses over the years to your reflections Fr. Freeman, he’s a very knowledgeable and thoughtful Christian. God will take care of him, He is the author and finisher of our faith.

  24. Nicole from VA Avatar
    Nicole from VA

    I have learned so much from Michael over the years, and from Merry. I send a hello to them both in this difficult time. I greatly appreciate the wisdom shared, both on faith and related to history, and the window into his childhood home and being taught interdependence. I know an amazing Eternal home awaits him and I will be praying. That he is joyous in this time speaks of God’s kindness and presence and Love stronger than death. Thank you, Michael for the many lessons.

  25. Sophia Avatar
    Sophia

    Dear Michael, may our merciful and loving Lord Jesus keep you and your beloved Merry in His all-embracing care. I have always rejoiced at seeing your beautiful comments on Fr. Stephen’s blog. I will pray for both of you. Christ is risen!

  26. Andrew Avatar
    Andrew

    O Lord, grant strength, mercy and Grace to your servant Michael and his loved ones!

  27. Maria Xiourouppa Avatar
    Maria Xiourouppa

    Dear Michael

    Lord remember me in thy kingdom. Kalo Paradiso.

    With love in Christ Maria (Cyprus)

  28. Dee of St Herman Avatar
    Dee of St Herman

    Dear Beloved Brother in Christ, Michael,
    How often I have waited to see your comments in Father’s blog. Over these years we haven’t met in person, but I sincerely believe we have met, and spoken to each other here, heart to heart. Dear beloved brother I pray that Our Lord embraces you, brings you joy, illuminates your path to Him as He has always done with you. God bless you and dear Merry. Both of you have been such a joy and on several occasions you have made me laugh at myself! Such a wonderful gift you have given us dear one!

    With God’s grace given to you, I also ask for your prayers. I have learned so much from you.

    with all my love,
    Dee

  29. Salaam Avatar
    Salaam

    Mr Bauman, I have been reading your comments for probably 18 years, now.

    May God bless you and keep you.

    Salaam

  30. Michelle Avatar
    Michelle

    Dear Michael,

    What a joy to finally see your beautiful face! I hope to see you again someday.

    Thank you for sharing so generously of yourself through the years. I so appreciate and cherish you. You are a gift!

    — Michelle, friend of your niece, Stefanida, and follower of your comments on various blogs 🙂

  31. Fr. Stephen Avatar
    Fr. Stephen

    I did a little “research” on the “dashboard” of the blog. It officially began in October of 2006. Michael Bauman’s first comment was in November of 2006. Over the years, he has contributed over 6,200 comments – which is to say he has been a very important part of the conversation hereabouts. To say that he is missed and will be missed is an understatement.

  32. Dee of St Herman Avatar
    Dee of St Herman

    Besides yourself, Father, Michael was the first responder to my earliest post. And ever since until lately continued to do so. It seemed he was always listening and encouraging.

    Dear Michael God bless you and Merry. May our Lord bring you joy and peace.

  33. Sandy Avatar
    Sandy

    I have long enjoyed Michael’s comments and enthusiasm. He and Merry are in my prayers. May your joy be perpetual Michael!

  34. Christos Stacy Avatar
    Christos Stacy

    Lord Jesus Christ Son of GOd have mercy on the soul of Michael!

    Peace
    Chris S

  35. Cathy Avatar
    Cathy

    Prayers for Michael

  36. Michael Bauman Avatar
    Michael Bauman

    Dee, one reason I have not spoken to you lately, is I do not feel the need to do so.

  37. Fr. Stephen Avatar
    Fr. Stephen

    Michael,
    I suspect you’re becoming a true Hesychast!

  38. Michael Bauman Avatar
    Michael Bauman

    Father, I think you are a romantic. My wife needs your prayers more than I.

    Thank each of you for your thoughts

  39. Fr. Stephen Avatar
    Fr. Stephen

    Michael,
    I’ll take that as a compliment. I am certain you are right about Merry’s needs. She is very much in our prayers.

  40. Mark Spurlock Avatar
    Mark Spurlock

    Michael,

    I’m glad to see you are still reading here. The absence of your contribution in the comments has left Father Stephen’s blog bereft of a unique (and enthusiastic) perspective on its subject that I’ve enjoyed ever since finding the site. Although we’ve never met, I do feel as though I know you a bit. After Father Stephen posted his photo of the two of you, I was able to find a video of you discussing the tours you have given of your sanctuary. Your spoken voice sounds much as I would have expected from your writing 🙂

    O Lord, look upon the work of Your hands Michael. Take away any fear he might have, and send Your angel to comfort him with the strength of Your presence, even as You were comforted in Your agony. Commend everyone he loves, especially Merry, to Your providence and care, knowing that You will do more for them than He could ever desire.

  41. Dee of St Herman Avatar
    Dee of St Herman

    Dear Michael indeed, beloved brother! Merry is in my prayers. She always brings such a joyous presence on this blog.

    May our Lord continue to bless you both with joy and peace. Both of you are in my prayers.

    With love to you both!
    Christ is risen! Christ is in our midst!

  42. Fr. Stephen Avatar
    Fr. Stephen

    Mark, et al
    It seems astounding to me that the blog will have its 20th anniversary next year. Michael has been a consistent presence and a helpful friend for us all over that same time. There are actually only a very few commenters that I’ve met face-to-face across those years…and only a small handful (less than 5) who were ever parishioners at St. Anne. When I began the blog, I kept a “firewall” up between that work and my parish ministry – for a variety of reasons. The wall came down at the parish council’s request in the later years.

    What I have met, particularly as I’ve traveled and spoken at parishes and conferences across the country have been readers who say very similar things about their experiences in reading – for many of them – that it was helpful and even instrumental in their journey to Orthodoxy. Many have also noted that they found the conversations in the comments to be as helpful or even moreso. That is a testament to so many!

    I am slowly settling into my new home and enjoying the life in our new parish (I am one of 5 priests – and there’s a Deacon). I have known all of them previously, but enjoying the comraderie of it all. We had over 500 for Pascha!

  43. Mark Spurlock Avatar
    Mark Spurlock

    Father Stephen,

    Yep. I have been following along with your updates on Facebook (the one advantage of it perhaps being the quick and concise if lacking in nuance Like button). I envy your retired status some in that I, too, have lots of home chores to do and find work at which I can set my own schedule and pace the most enjoyable.

    You are not so far away and about half the distance between here and the coast. I used to go to Charleston and Pawleys Island every few years. When I make that trek again, I’ll see whether you are around for a visit (including perhaps your Parish–which sounds wonderful).

  44. Matthew Avatar
    Matthew

    Man … over 500! Praise God!

  45. Merry Bauman Avatar
    Merry Bauman

    With tears rolling down my face, I thank Fr Stephen and all of you for your love, prayers, and kind words. Michael still is able to visit on the phone and enjoys calls from his friends. I dont know if Fr allows personal info but his number is 316-617-2732. (If he does not hear the phone use 316-619-2390-mine.) You are also welcome to email him at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
    My strength wears out quickly but God gives me His to get thru the day. I was in a bad car wreck in Dec 2023 and God saved my life-perhaps to be able to keep him home thru this time. I have a back injury that makes it hard at times, but God is merciful . Michael has lost over 120 lbs since that picture I took of him and Fr Stephen. He wants to make it to church at least one more time, so I ask your prayers for help Get him there to do that. I am blessed to be able to work from home now and our hospice workers are SO kind! He has long discussions with the prodestant chaplain and has about converted him! We are grateful for the time to share. Michael was 77 on April 10 and I am six months older. Fr Stephen and his blog are very dear to our hearts,as are all of you. Your outpouring of love and prayers are so touching and gratefully received. I am crying for the first time since January when he was in the hospital. But they are a healing balm I realize now I badly needed. A simple “thank you” is not enough. I will gladly share our phone numbers if you email me. Paula and I met thru the blog and we have become sisters of the heart thru the years. Her support is so helpful now too. I am praying for a painless, peaceful death with a good defense before Christ for all of us. You are in our prayers as well. My cup runneth over today.

  46. J Cooper Avatar
    J Cooper

    I am new to this website, and am enjoying it immensely. Thank you. Please tell me if Orthodox worship includes the Nicene Creed in each Sunday divine service.

  47. Fr. Stephen Avatar
    Fr. Stephen

    J,
    Yes. The Nicene Creed is recited (or sung – it depends on the jurisdiction as to which way it is done) at every Divine Liturgy. It is also in the service of Compline which comes up every now and then.

    Glad you’re enjoying the website.

  48. Dana Ames Avatar
    Dana Ames

    Dear Michael & Merry,

    You have been in my prayers in the middle of the night for many months. The prayers continue. May God grant you everything necessary – superabundant grace of Christ’s presence. Sending hugs as well, dear ones.

    Dana

  49. Janine Avatar
    Janine

    I was wondering why I had not seen Michael’s comments lately. I’m so glad you spoke to him, Father. Many prayers, and Michael and Merry, if you are reading this please know that when I am back at Holy Virgin- Joy of All Who Sorrow cathedral in San Francisco I will be praying for you both there. Michael, I also think of your many posts about your wonderful mother, will add her also at the shrine of St John of Shanghai and San Francisco

  50. Lynne Avatar
    Lynne

    Michael and Merry,

    Many thanks for your faith-filled comments over the years. Praying for the Lord to be with you during these days.

  51. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    Dear Michael and Merry,

    I offer my prayers. Also, my gratitude for your loving and faithful conversation over the years, being a guiding beacon to us who have been a part of this blog community.

  52. Michael Bauman Avatar
    Michael Bauman

    Thank all of you

  53. Michael Bauman Avatar
    Michael Bauman

    The quality of mercy is not strained it is upwice blessed. It droppeth as the dew from heaven. It blesses those who giveth and those receive.

  54. Michael Bauman Avatar
    Michael Bauman

    Try again:

    “The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the dew from heavenI is twice blessed. It blesses those that give and those that receive”

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