Covering Testimony: Bernice Copenhaver
| Name: Bernice Copenhaver | Age: 27 | Location: Lebanon, Pennsylvania | Started Covering: 1993 |
1) Introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Bernice Copenhaver and I’m 27 years old. I’ve been married to my amazing husband Darin for almost 6 years. We have 2 beautiful children; Kaylie (3 years) and Clayton (11 months). I’m a stay at home mom, and I love it! I enjoy cooking, gardening and people! God has put an excitement in my heart for the head covering that I feel He wants me to share. I’m excited to see what the Lord has for me next.
2) Where do you attend church? Tell us a little bit about it.
I attend White Oak Church of the Brethren. The women who are members there, all wear head coverings. We are encouraged to also wear them outside of church, during the week which I agree with.
3) What led you to start covering?
I was raised in a Mennonite home so I was taught that that was expected when you become a Christian. I have been wearing one for 20 years. It is something that I had struggled with a few times in those years but still somehow held onto it. One day my husband’s cousin who wasn’t taught about the head covering (and also doesn’t wear one) asked me why I wear one. I explained to her why I wear it and why it’s important to me. Mainly it was things that I would have heard the preacher speak on. Then I was given a book called “Head Coverings” by K.P.Yohannan. It blew me away how important the head covering is, and what all it symbolizes. I think it’s so awesome to be so involved with the angels and the spiritual realm! God has given me a new excitement for it and I just want to spread it!
4) You mentioned that you had struggled a few times with head coverings in the past. What kind of struggles did you have?
There were times when I was young and struggling with the idea. I would take off my covering when I got to school and then put it back on to go home. I was the only one in my school covering, so I was made fun of. I’m so thankful God gave me strength to continue covering. It’s been a blessing. Now people ask me about it, and it gives me an opportunity to share the Gospel with them.
5) What counsel can you give to women that do not cover out of fear?
If you are not covering because you’re afraid of what people will say, ask God for strength and just do it. Try it first around the house, then venture out for groceries or to the park. God will grant you what you need if you’re doing what He has called you to do. Instead of being fearful, turn that into excitement!!!!
6) What kind of covering(s) do you use? Where did you get them?
I wear a round white veil that I pin on with bobby pins. I get them from Joyce’s Coverings and Veils.
