Meet the Family: Adelheid Bader (Germany)
Hello, my name is Adelheid Bader. I’m 61 years old (for a little while longer), and I’ve never been married, and have no children. I live and work in Ostfildern, Germany (which is the in the Swabian region in the southwest known for Porsche and Mercedes).
As the oldest of four children in a pastor’s family, I was blessed to grow up with parents who believed in God and taught us the Bible from an early age. I am deeply grateful for that. Still, it took time for this knowledge about God and His Word to become a personal relationship with Him. That transformation came only because of the love of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.
One major influence in my journey was individual Christians—especially single women—whose faith wasn’t just spoken but also lived out. Their example made me realize what it meant to truly walk with Jesus. Some of them were never married, while others were widows. Some had children, others did not. They were both older and younger than me. Some were from my own family, while I met other through church, my neighborhood, or work. Their lives left a lasting impression on me.
Growing up, I always expected marriage and children to be part of my “life plan,” but that never happened. Naturally, this could have led to dissatisfaction or even a desperate search for a partner. Yet by God’s grace, He protected me from going down that path. Instead, the example of those faithful women encouraged me and gave me motivation to:
Be continually amazed by the immeasurable love that Jesus has for me personally.
Find contentment in my current life situation while remaining open to any changes God may bring.
Welcome opportunities to connect with families, children, couples, and other single people, while sharing Christ’s love through those relationships.
Look forward with curiosity to the opportunities God provides where I can serve and encourage others.
This is also my heartfelt wish for all young people who belong to God through Jesus Christ: that they would experience joy and contentment on the path He leads them down, even when it doesn’t match their expectations. Life will have both highs and lows, but it is always carried by His unfailing love.
One verse that has guided me throughout my life is this:
"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the strength of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"—Psalm 27:1
