Relationships Are Listening and Learning

In a warm and engaging presentation titled “Relationships Are Listening and Learning,” retired pastor and seasoned church leader Mike Ortel opened his five-part seminar by crediting his mother’s prayers as the foundation of his spiritual journey.

Reflecting on his childhood near Buffalo, N.Y., Ortel shared memories of his father’s World War II service and the family’s tradition of observing Memorial Day as a day of prayer. He emphasized that healthy relationships begin with humility and prayer, drawing from James 4:2: “You have not because you ask not.”

Pastor Ortel reminded attendees that God is rich in mercy and grace—and that He delights in blessing His children. The Bible overflows with promises—thousands of them—meant to meet our deepest needs: physical, emotional, social, and spiritual.

To bring these ideas to life, he shared the story of Max, his daughter’s cat. Asked to care for Max while she was away, Ortel agreed—though reluctantly. Max often interrupted his morning Bible study, becoming a source of irritation. But over time, Ortel’s heart began to change. He started seeing Max not as a nuisance, but as a lonely creature in need of attention, acceptance, and compassion. That simple shift in perspective became a powerful lesson—one that applies to people just as much as pets.

Max’s story went on to inspire Ortel’s book, Max, the Cat: The Seven A’s of Healthy Relationships, which outlines practical principles for building meaningful, grace-filled connections.

Ortel also spoke about the power of blessing others, recalling a time when his son asked for a fatherly blessing—a biblical tradition that left a lasting spiritual impact. He encouraged listeners to follow the example of Jabez in 1 Chronicles 4:10, who boldly prayed for God’s favor and for his influence to expand.

He closed with a heartfelt challenge: Don’t keep Jesus in your head or your hands only—place Him in your heart.

— Mauricio Schiavenin