Sunday, April 29, 2018

CHALLENGES

A community that faces challenges with loving hearts will be able to revitalize and strengthen each other.

Dad has a runny nose and a sore throat but he did attend the meeting after church.  I appreciated people who stood up to ask questions before the voting started.  No one wanted to have to make a decision to close the church but if we do it now we will have some choices to make about the future use of the building.

The vote was 37 to close and 13 to remain open.  People had tears in their eyes and they would now experience a period of grief.  Their church the only one they have know was preparing to close in 18 months.

I have experienced a lot of love and support in this community. I have been encouraged to take on new responsibilities so I know the work that goes on with our coucil members as they work at keeping our faith alive.

 Growth is painful until we can see that the new challenges that lie ahead will have purpose and meaning.

There will be new challenges on this journey that requires healing and hope for the future.

Sorry we missed you Sandra.  Thank you for the eggs.

5 comments:

Client Strengths said...

Wow! Colebrook church closing. That's big news. I wonder if people will come to attend a "last" time now that they know it's closing. So many good memories there: Oliver and Kimberly being baby Jesus, coffee after church, all the lovely people and moving services. A sad time for all the faithful church goers I'm sure.a

Sandra said...

When you say the numbers of those who voted that really tells the story right there. So few people who even were involved in such an important vote is a sign that there is not enough interest to keep it going.

How long has the church been open?

Randy and I had a trip out to Cedar Rim Nursery in Langley and wandered around in the drizzling rain. It was surprisingly busy considering the weather. By the time we left the rain had stopped and I was able to take my jacket off.

Mary's flight is booked out for the summer.

Sandra

Shandel said...

Change is the one constant. We can see it and feel it everywhere. Sad yes, but also wonderful as when something else roots it will be exciting again. The practice and the energy behind why you went to church I what's most important. Celebrate the many things that were experienced because of the church. Enjoy those moments too. Sad with the happy. Was this the church we would have attended Grandma with in 2011? I remember going to a service at Christmas when we were out.
Grandma, will you attend another church or bible studio group?

How exciting! Mary is booked. We can't wait to join you guys this summer.💓💓💓

beth bennett said...

Yes lots of good memories.

I wondered why certain people were not there to vote.

I think that would be the church you and Camron went to Shandel.

I know our study group will continue to meet in homes
as this well be one way to keep connected.

Lots of things to look forward in the coming weeks and months.

Kim's grad, Morgan's dance class, Mary and Cameron and Shandel coming.

Love Grandma

nancy-Lou said...

My goodness, such a few people to vote on such a big decision. I am so sorry for those who still were parishoners....it would be like losing a family member. I am glad to hear that your study group will still meet, Beth.

Maybe it was just too hard for some people to come and vote...painful for them and they probably knew the outcome anyway.

You do have a busy schedule coming up with all the things to do. That is what keeps us young...being active!

I really like what Shandel wrote...she is very wise for her young years! Life is about Yin and Yang and one without the other would be pretty darned boring!

Love Nancy