A Tribute To Alicia Miehe

On an ordinary evening at Central Church, I would often notice a small white car parked near the entrance. Without a doubt, I knew Alicia was still inside, working long after most had gone home. She was probably preparing for the next Come Alive dinner or quietly taking care of one of the countless responsibilities that made ministry possible.

When I served at Central, I don’t know anyone who worked harder than Alicia. Few people were as devoted to their ministry calling. She faithfully served the senior adults of our church with remarkable consistency and quiet determination.

She rarely received public recognition, but Alicia never worked for applause. She served because Christ had called her to love His church—even with all its imperfections. Her motivation was never attention; it was faithfulness.

One of God’s unexpected gifts to me was the opportunity to serve alongside her. Our offices sat in one of Central’s maze-like hallways, and over the years we shared countless conversations. I probably learned more about the history, traditions, and heart of Central Church from Alicia than from anyone else.

She loved telling stories about the Senior Adult Ministry’s years of service at the Mid-South Fair and the many ways those men and women ministered to troops, missionaries, and people in need. She knew the history because she had helped write it.

More importantly, she loved the people of Central. Many who benefited from her ministry probably never realized how faithfully she prayed for them.

Some of my favorite conversations with Alicia were about the Bible. Although she rarely stood in front of a class and preferred to work behind the scenes, she knew God’s Word well. She possessed a deep understanding of Scripture and theology, and she used that knowledge to quietly encourage members, pastors, and staff alike. Her wisdom was never loud, but it was steady, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in Christ.

People sometimes assume that the pastors, elders, or deacons are the heart of a church. I see it differently. While those on the platform are often the most visible, the true heartbeat of a healthy church is found in faithful servants whose names may never be widely known.

The authentic heart of the church is found in people like Alicia. Men and women serving quietly, faithfully, and consistently with Christlike character. Their lives become the foundation upon which so much ministry is built.

Alicia’s generosity toward me and so many others set an example I hope to follow. I pray that I will serve Christ and His church with the same perseverance and humility until the very end.

I loved serving with her. She was my friend, and I will miss her deeply.

She faithfully prayed for me and for my family. Looking back, I’m reminded that God often gives us some of our greatest friendships from the most unexpected places. Sometimes your greatest encourager is the quiet coworker whose office happens to be down the hall.

So don’t rush through your days. Leave your office door open. Linger in the hallway. Take time to know the people around you. The friendships God gives through ordinary moments may become some of His greatest gifts. I know they were for me.

Thank you, Alicia. Your faithful service pointed many of us to Christ, and your legacy will continue in the lives of those you quietly loved so well.