It's been nearly two weeks since lightning struck and set fire to the house of Jen Crow and her family. Ever since we shared this scary, difficult news, your concern, care, and compassion have been overflowing. Every time I run into a church member or friend, whether in the church hallways, the grocery store, or at the State Fair, you've asked, "How is Jen? How is her family? Are they ok? Tell them we're thinking of them."
As you can imagine, the outpouring of your love has held and sustained Jen and her family. This love is tangible, too: on a daily basis, we've taken cards, notes, packages, well-wishes, and gifts to Jen and her family. As you can imagine, due to the number of cards and gifts they've received, Jen and her family will not be able to respond to each person individually to share their thanks. However, Jen did want to share a "thank you" note with the congregation:
Words will not ever fully be able to express our gratitude for the outpouring of care and support we have received from this church community. So much has been lost for us, and so much has grown in clarity. We know now more than ever that this is a congregation full of love.
Thank you for every note and card, every Facebook reach out, every gift card and donation toward rebuilding, every kind word and hug, and for your understanding as I make my way back into the stream of ministry and church life. Next Friday, September 16th, we'll move into our rental home, where we'll be for at least six months. We're planning to cover the walls with the cards we've received (using blue tape, of course!) to remind us each day of the love that surrounds us as we create our home anew.
In gratitude,
Jen (and Loretta, Henry, and Kate)
When we say, "Love is the spirit of this church..." we mean it! We are here for one another. We hold one another in deep care and support. This is the work of our church, and it is an incredible gift to serve a congregation that truly walks its talk!
In faith and love,
Justin 
