MEMBER PROFILE: RUTH RESHAD

Ruth Reshad is one of WACC’s newest members. On most Sunday mornings, you’ll find her sitting on the pulpit side of the sanctuary, about 3/4 of the way back. Ruth joined WACC on August 11, 2019, approximately five months after her son and daughter-in-law, Abe and Lisa Reshad, became members. Ruth became interested in our congregation when she learned that we would be sponsoring Lisa on her journey to become a chaplain.

Ruth grew up in Lorain and attended Lorain County Community College where she met her future husband, Javad, who had recently immigrated from Iran. They enjoyed a two-year courtship while Ruth earned a degree in Social Work at the University of Akron and Javad completed a Mechanical Engineering degree at Kent State University.

Ruth and Javad were married in 1973. Javad became a U.S. Citizen in 1978. He is Muslim and attends services at a mosque every Friday. He and Ruth agreed early in their marriage to each follow his/her own path. Ruth was a practicing Catholic until 180 when she witched to the Church of the Nazarene, and later to Southern Baptist.

Javad accepted a position in Springfield, where they lived for 30 years. Ruth stayed home with their four children–Jamsheed, Abraham (Abe), Miriam (Iranian for Mary), and Javad, Jr.–until, at the age of 42, she began a 20-year career as a social worker at Head Start and Help Me Grow.

The Reshads moved to Lorain a few years ago to be close to Abe, Lisa, and grandchildren Miles and Olivia. Both Ruth and Javad are retired and happily help out with babysitting whenever needed.

Ruth is glad to be a part of WACC and enjoys serving on the Worship Committee. We are happy to be in Christian community with Ruth. Please extend the warmest of greetings next time you see Ruth.

Member profiles are provided by Jane Hutson and Brenda Keenan on behalf of the Church Life & Growth Committee.