I first met Patricia Beall Gruits when I attended her catechism class at the age of 17. Little did I know as I sat in that class that at the age of 21 she would become my mother-in-law, and then so much more. She would become my mentor, my prayer warrior, and yes, my cheerleader!
What is amazing about mother was that she was so secure in knowing the will of God for her life and the gifts that He had placed in her, she never felt threatened by the gifts God had placed in others. In fact, she delighted in helping you discover your gift. She even provided opportunities of ministry so she could nurture those gifts. And, that is what she did for me.
In my late 20’s, she involved me in the Rhema seminars―seminars that shared with pastors and church leaders the Understanding God curriculum, a curriculum that establishes a spiritual foundation for believers. Yes, I had a graduate degree in education and was teaching high school, but she entrusted me with the task of planning the seminar agendas and then to speak at these seminars. Initially I was responsible for sharing teaching strategies to be used with the Understanding God curriculum. Then as the years progressed, my role expanded as one of the main seminar speakers sharing the doctrines of Christ! Sometimes as I reflect on those early days I am amazed at the trust she placed in me.
It was also during those early seminar years that she opened up yet another door of ministry for me. She asked if I would teach the Understanding God class at our home church, Bethesda. This assignment required that I would not only teach the foundational lessons from God’s Word, but also to pray and spiritually minister to the students attending these classes. I could teach, but could I minister? I was excited about the opportunity, yet apprehensive. Such a spiritual responsibility! Overwhelming to say the least!
My response? I told mother I would accept on one condition: “I will do it, but only if you will lay your hands on my in prayer and impart that spiritual gift to teach that you have.” I knew I had the gift to teach in the natural, but I desired that anointed gift of teaching that she had. And so she did. Mother gladly gave what she herself had received. On that day, I believe I received a deposit of spiritual DNA that had been imparted to her.
But my story is not unique. She did this for many in the church. She was an “includer,” not an “excluder.” She wanted you to use the gifts God had placed in you, so she would make room for you in what she was doing for the Lord. And as you blossomed, she became your biggest fan. Your cheerleader!
I will miss our talks about the truths in the Bible. I will miss writing with her, teaching with her, ministering with her. And yes, I’ll miss those powerful times of prayer ―praying in the spirit! But most of all, I’ll miss just being with her.
To read the eulogy article about Patricia Gruits in Charisma Magazine, go to: https://www.charismanews.com/us/76918-latter-rain-leader-rhema-international-founder-patricia-beall-gruits-dies-at-96
Joy Gruits is a Christian educator, speaker, and writer. Her passion is to share a Biblical truths that challenge and motivate people to become devoted followers of Christ who fulfill God's divine purpose for their lives.
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Thank you! So beautiful, Joy. We love and appreciate you! Genny & Frenchee❤️
Such a beautiful tribute to an amazing woman. Joy, your relationship with Sis. Pat and with the Lord have been inspirational to many. You have been a spiritual mentor and pioneer for others, just as Sis. Pat was for you. Thank you for sharing your personal story with your beloved mother-in-love. One sweet day we will gather at the feet of Jesus and rejoice forever more! Until then, it is an honor to call you friend. Prayers continue for you and your entire family. May the Comforter carry you as you continue to live out the legacy that has been established for you. Much love and blessings…
Thank you for such kind words. Your friendship means a lot to Joe and me. Blessings, Joy
Beautiful. I know you will miss her presence in your life. Now you can pass on the legacy she left!
Wonderful tribute. You definitely carry the same spiritual gift of teaching as Sister Pat, and the deposit she transferred to you was obvious to anyone who had ever been under both of you. I had always said that no one could teach the class like Pat Gruits until I heard you teach the seminars.
Thank you for such words of encouragement. You, too, were a blessing to her and the family appreciates the sacrifices you made to assist her in her travels. Blessings, Joy
Beautiful tribute to our beloved teacher and minister Joy. You were an incredible blessing, daughter, and co-minister with her as well. I am feeling more secure in knowing that Sister Pat’s spiritual gifts live on in your heart, soul, and mind.
Love and may the peace of God rest on all of you as you adjust to life without your mother.
Continue to carry the mantle she passed on to you! May the Lord provide the next one to whom you will impart the legacy and honor of holding forth the word of life! You are an amazing woman of God! We love and appreciate you!
The Word of Life Church has been such a blessing to our family. Joe and I value your friendship and the spiritual bond that has deepened over the years. Blessings, Joy
I treasure learning from Sister Pat & you. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are evident. Thank God for the impartation. May God comfort the family and bring new life from the legacy you all share.
My deepest sympathy,to you all in the family.
I wish that could write more of goodness about my sister Pat .For about 10 years I did her hear and learn much about her ,love ,,understandingGod,and people.We are teaching inCroatia,Split ,Understanding God.
People love it.
I leave life what I learn in old Bethesda.
Soon we will all be together
Special hallo to Harry.
In Jesus love Kay.