Promoted to Glory
The Good Shepherd of Bliss
Bill Devena, Village Missionary to Bliss, Idaho died at home on Wednesday, February 8th.
Two years ago, Bill was diagnosed with Melanoma and only given a few months to live. He lasted much longer, and his last years were a testimony to the grace and sufficiency of God.
At his funeral service on Feb. 11 at the church, I heard repeated testimonies of how he had loved the people of his community. One person called him the “good shepherd of Bliss.” He was on the fire department, taught hunter safety, was a chaplain with the Idaho State Police, visited in the nursing homes and prison, and helped farmers with their chores.
In one of his last reports he wrote, “Although this past year has been unlike any other we have had, we want to give thanks and praise to God for His sustaining love and grace. His blessings are abundant and His mercies are new every morning. We have a wonderfully supportive church family, and we are amazed at God’s goodness in bringing us to this place where the love of His people surrounds us.”
Please be in prayer for Vicki Devena, her four daughters, and the rest of the family as they mourn the passing of Bill. Bill and Vicki have served with Village Missions since 1980. They have served in Bliss, ID, in between Twin Falls and Mountain Home on I-84, since 2002. I thanked the Lord for the opportunity to attend his service and hear how he had ministered in Bliss. If you would like to see pictures of the service and the Bliss Community Church please click here.
