For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15: 4
Sophie shared, “Before I moved, I was active at a small church in the Bay area; once settled here, finding a new church fellowship was a priority for me. A friend invited me to Lake. I fell in love with the teaching and worship, but being a person with total vision loss, I was quite overwhelmed with the size of the body and was unsure how to meet new friends and build relationships. Before long, I joined the choir and started building community. Learning the music each week was a significant challenge for me, but one I was up for.”
She continued, “Early on, I attended the ‘Discovery’ Sunday school class. One special memory from is when my instructor, Martha Anderson, made a special tactile Holy Land map for me so I could follow the weekly discussion and teaching. She had glued fabric, styrofoam bits, and various other tactile material to map out the different territories of the Holy Land.” Sophie was filled with joy that this thoughtful simple gesture was made especially for her by Martha.
Attending the Crossroads class brought growth and experiences for Sophie. Light refreshments are served in the class each week and Sophie volunteered to bring the food one Sunday. She decided to bring her favorite "Sophie Pasta Salad". The salad made an inspiring trip to church that day - a journey that involved a large rolling suitcase, plastic storage bowls, insulated Trader Joe bags and ice packs, along with the guiding assistance of her good friend to reach the elevator. The salad was a delicious hit.
Sophie shared, “Even in these times I have encountered discouraging moments, moments where I feel unseen by others, and I know I am not alone in this. I don’t lose hope and I try my best to be quick to forgive. The Lord always reminds me to do so.
Also, Sophie typed out the Worship Folder, hymns, verses and the Senior Pastor's preaching notes in Braille for the visually impaired. She even donated the special Braille paper to print that material.
This year she received the Community Award on behalf of the Natural Social Services Department from California State University, Los Angeles. Pastor Bill Mead testified, “I have observed Ms. Ko and found her to be joyful and diligent in her serving. When she says she will do something I never worry as I know she will always follow through. Additionally, she gives of herself fully to anything she does. She is a delight to have as a member of the church and as a volunteer in different ministries.”
Sophie shared some final thoughts, “Through my story, I hope the LAC community would celebrate with those of us with disabilities, help us when we are in need, and use us because we are ready and willing to serve!”