Dear Friends of the Chapel,
I woke up this morning realizing it is July 6! 40 years ago, on a Sunday afternoon at the outdoor Chapel at Tall Oaks, I was ordained. Multiple people were there that day, even though it ended up storming. There were my parents who had supported me all of my life as I explored and imagined. (Even though Dad was not sure women could be ministers, somehow I did not fit into the category that could not.) My husband of less than 2 months, Bill, my sister, Kenna and sister-in-law, Laurie, were there. Clergy who helped to guide my spiritual journey: Dick Hamm, Ralph Smith, Paul Kapp, Vic Davis, Ron Sebring, Gary Armour, Roger Guy and Bob Magee. Leaders from the church I was serving in Kearney: Paula Belcher, Sherry and Bill Wilkerson. Pauline Sprague, my preschool Sunday School teacher, and lots of people from the three churches who sponsored me for ordination – Central Christian Church in Kansas City, KS where I grew up, Countryside Christian Church in Overland Park where I served my first years of seminary, and First Christian Church of Kearney where I was the Associate Pastor. The reception at the dining hall was hosted by my home congregation. There was a lot of laughter and some good stories shared.
I realize people could have been anywhere that day. But some traveled many miles to be there. Others dealt with the heat and rain and the wooden benches without backs. Still others, who could not be there prayed for me and for my journey in ministry that in many ways was just beginning. I doubt that any of us were thinking about 40 years later and where I would be. I am grateful for the people who have invested their gifts and talents to share faith and ministry with me. There are way too many to name them. In fact, if you are still reading, you are most likely one of those people!
For every time someone has prayed, told me an encouraging story, helped to plan a mission trip, explored new ministries and supported traditional ones, invited me to question and challenged me to grow or gave me grace when I needed it, THANK YOU! I would not have found my way through all the challenges and blessings without so many of you helping to be God’s hands, heart and voice for me.
Is there someone God is asking you to support or encourage or simply walk with them today? Who knows, they just might be remembering your acts of kindness and presence in their life in 40 years too. 😉
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Donna