Today the whole family went to church to say goodbye to our minister who is retiring. This was his last service. Our minister was a good man who was always just a phone call away. Even taking the time to talk to me one night on the phone when I just was in total despair and just needed to ask questions about faith. He married us,was with me when my husband got surgery on his shoulder, was there for other family members surgeries. He baptised our boys one in a huge celebration the other a more of a neccessity done in a NICU. He sat with us in "the meeting" were there was a room full of specialist all ripping our hope away piece by piece while we just sat there crying not wanting to believe or hear what they had to say about our son. He was so very kind to C always waving to him as he entered and left the service. So needless to say it was a hard morning were you feel like your saying goodbye to a family member. On top of that they had a baptism. I could not stay during that part of the service and stepped out. I had a good cry and felt like it was so unfair Scott deserved that celebration too. Before communion some of the members of the church had written a litany of prayers to see honoring our minister and his wife. Acknowledging everything that they had done. My dad was suppose to read the line that said, you were there in sorrow, heartache, fear, and sadness. I asked him if I could read it so when the time came I stood up and read it while my family stood up with me. He will be greatly missed. and I really hate change.
It sounds like his retiring will be a big loss to you and the community. He sounds like a wonderful man. It's very nice that you were able to read a line for him during the prayer. I'm sure it meant a lot to him and to you.
Hugs,
Libby
I'm very sorry that a man who has been there for your family for so long is retiring. I know that you (like me) have struggled with your faith since losing Scott and this is indeed another struggle in that department. I hope that this person will still be available to you even though he is no longer as active in the church. Sending you guys lots of strength as you deal with yet another loss.
Jami
Sounds like a very special service. I'm sure that he'll still be there to support you even though his title at church as changed. My pastor retired several years ago and it was much the same situation.....we've never lost touch and he's still a big part of my family now. Hugs as you welcome your new minister to your family as well.
Tracy