Last week was one of the busiest weeks I have had since I arrived at Holy Cross
MCC. I share this not to show how busy I was but for you to know how may lives we are touching through the ministry of our church. In addition to the regular happenings, I officiated at three funeral/memorial services, one of which was for someone I had never met and it was in Alabama. As I listened to this man's story it was difficult to believe that one person could have so many health issues.
He was diagnosed with diabetes at age 5; he had two kidney transplants with two brothers donating the kidneys. He had been blind for the last 20 years. He also had a pancreas transplant and he died at age 42 from complications. Yet he was described as never complaining and always having a positive attitude. Can you imagine that?
His dear, sweet mother had buried three sons and my heart went out to her. They say there is not pain greater than the death of a child and she has experienced that pain three time now. Yet she was one of the most loving and kind people I have ever met. And she had to ask a stranger to conduct her son's funeral. This reminds me of how separated people are from the faith community and how important it is that we are that bridge between people and God.
Wednesday, Rev. Patrick arrived and what a great time we had getting to know each other a little. We talked and laughed and of course we shared some great meals together. If I had to choose one word to describe him it would be "real"....what you see is what you get. That is so important in doing the Lord's work. People need us to be real. People need us to mean what we say and say what we mean. People need to be able to trust in people of faith and not be unpleasantly surprised as time goes by. Rev. Patrick is one such person and I am excited that God may be calling him to come and work here at Holy Cross MCC.
On Saturday we went to Cornerstone MCC in Mobile and I enjoyed the workshop he conducted on Giving the Jesus Way. It was not your usual stewardship workshop. He made me think and I learned some new ways to look at my giving and the giving of the church. And he held my attention and I did not doodle once the entire day!
While I could not be at church Sunday, I have heard nothing but good comments about Rev. Patrick. People enjoyed him and his sermon and he enjoyed Holy Cross MCC. I think he is a good match for me and a good match for our church. And what about that energy!?! Wow. Things are looking up. Exciting possibilities are on the horizon. This is another example of God having people....with the resources we need....all lined up to help us....at the right time for God's glory!
What a week, and what a weekend. Thank you Holy Cross for being there for Scott in the death of his father, Don in the death of his wife Ava, and a little old lady in Alabama whose son died. Thanks for the food that was prepared and the words of comfort that were expressed. Thanks for being the hands and feet of Jesus - thanks for being the church alive! I hope to see you Sunday. Invite someone to join you for we truly are blessed with an incredible church.
