OPEN CIRCLES

  

One of the greatest gifts communities of faith have to offer is a circle of openness. People may come into and move out of those circles as their own spirit chooses or as the circumstances of their situation in life alters. People can remain in those circles for a long time, or for shorter periods of time. However short or long, while one is in that circle one finds support, stimulus, encouragement, reassurance, challenge, and acceptance. All of those are facets of love. In a church library, I once came across a book titled A Woman's Guide to Spiritual Renewal. I said to myself, "Why should they have all the joy?", so I leafed through it. I was struck by several passages including this one:   

"Community is the circle that embraces us, the safety net. Community is the line that connects us, the heart line. We bond in relationship and through these relationships give birth to spiritual community." (Nelly Kaufer and Carol Osmer-Newhouse, p. 214)                                                                                  

That has been my experience of Marshall Memorial for which I am grateful. You welcomed me, embraced me, and allowed me to be me (from my normal to my outrageous self). More than that, you shared your faith with me, your spirit uplifted my spirit Sunday after Sunday, week by week for pretty much two years.   Étienne will be deeply blessed as he becomes enfolded in your love and care. God be with you as you continue to grow in walking in God's ways and serving in God's world.

  

The sometimes quirky author and poet Sark has written:

 "Find inspiring people. Inspiring people are vitamins for our spirits. They come in all kinds of disguises and descriptions. Inspiring people help us to experience life in a new way. The delight moves us. If you open your heart to being inspired, they will appear." (Inspiration Sandwich)                          

 I didn't have far to look. From the youngest and newest born to the most seasoned veterans of faith among you, I found all manner of inspiring people at Marshall Memorial. Keep your circle open, you never know who might show up next for either a short while or a long time. Could be I might drop in again someday. Or maybe Harvey Baumgartner might show up when he's up in Ancaster again visiting his beloved aunt.                    

COFFEE'S ON! (... or tea, or sparkling water). If I didn't get a chance to say farewell to you and you to me, feel free to drop into The Gathering Place for a cuppa and a chat: Monday, June 25 or Wednesday, June 27 from 10 a.m. to noon, or 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. -- Harry          

In our thoughts and prayers are Judy VanDuzer, Larry Webber and Patricia Bradshaw's grandson, Daniel. 

Sunday June 17th will be Rev. Harry's last service for us at Marshall. This will be a joint service at 10 a.m. followed by a light lunch in the fellowship hall catered by Frank Pierce. Please mark your calendars and join us to thank Harry for his time with us.

There will be a 90th Birthday Celebration for Marion Stahn on Saturday, June 16 th , 2018 from 1-5pm in the Gathering Place.   Please e njoy visiting with light refreshments.  Best wishes only, your attendance is your gift!