Courting an Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele
Simon and Stella’s story in Courting an
Amish Bishop by Mindy Steele, book four in The Heart of
the Amish series, is a reminder that love will find you, even if you weren’t looking or
expecting to ever find it. Amish Bishop Simon Graber, became a bishop much younger than most men. A
widower, he is focused on two things: taking care of his Cherry Grove community
and his sixteen year old son, Michael. During a bad outbreak of the flu Simon travels
to Walnut Ridge to get help from the local doctor. Stella Schmucker is a
healer, a ‘dokter’, whose life centers around her ability to heal naturally. Her
earlier life and growing-up years were not easy. The only love and acceptance
she received was from her grandparents, whose home she now resides in. Stella,
unaware that Simon is the bishop of Cherry Grove and always one to put others
before her own needs, is happy to help and goes with Simon to treat his son,
Michael first before seeing to the rest of the sick in the community. After a freak storm destroys Stella’s grandparent’s
home, she is unable to return until it is rebuilt. This offers Simon the opportunity
to give Stella a temporary home, staying with his mother until her home is
rebuilt, giving both the opportunity to get to know one another.
These two are perfect for each other in their
willingness to always put the needs of their community before their own and
serve with such joy. There were several moments when I was hoping Simon would
get a move on and propose to Stella as almost everyone could see they were
perfect for each other. It isn’t until the chance of losing each other to
finally come clean and admit their feelings.
Ms. Steele wrote a
wonderfully sweet and moving story of love and second chances. This delightful
story exemplified and reminded that one should be who they were created to be,
and not be concerned with what others think. It was nice to read a middle-aged
couple, each enjoying serving their community but thinking there is no chance
left for the lives they wished they had. Only this time, G-d offers them a life
they never expected, only if they are willing to step out of their comfort
zones and take it. Stella was a unique individual, which is especially
difficult for an Amish person who does not fit expectations.
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