At the Children’s Time on the Sunday after Thanksgiving we – the children and the whole congregation – wrote a letter to God expressing the things for which we are grateful. Below is the content of that letter plus an addition from me expressing my gratitude for you:
Dear God,
Thank you for . . .
Life!
Bebe!
Birthdays!
My parents!
Family!
Church!
Prim family!
Bob Prim!
Turkey!
Music!
Community!
Home!
Pets!
Choir!
Health!
Seeing People Again!
Children!
Leftovers!
And now let me add to the list . . .
Dear God,
Thank you for . . .
Allowing me to be the pastor of such a wonderful community of faith!
Allowing my family to grow and be shaped for the good by a community which allowed us to be ourselves and called forth our best selves!
The chance to be a part of a church that has a positive impact on the wider church and community,
especially in regard to being a church that celebrates
the gifts and leadership of LGBTQ people!
The wonderful Parish Associates and Parish Affiliates who have supported me and the congregation throughout my time as pastor!
The gifted leaders who have served as Elders and Deacons
over the last 24 years!
The Music Directors who have orchestrated
such magnificent offerings over the years!
The choir and bell choir members who have shared their talents!
The members and friends who have shared their lives, talents, and gifts
with the community!
The outreach of this small church that reaches around the world!
And finally, God, I thank you for your gift of the Holy Spirit
that will hold and lead this beloved community in the future!
Amen.