HELLO!

It all started with this email and photo from Michael. “Good morning Kevin. Interesting sunrise photo on our walk today. Could pass as a church steeple. See you in church, Michael Pierce”. As I look at this image I am struck by the blazing light from the centre of the tree, as Michael says, it resembles a steeple. It reminds me of the Responsive song we sang at the end of our Palm Sunday service: “The gates of holiness are open wide!” (More Voices #8). Something is about to take shape. Something is about to come to life. And it did. If you missed the service, here it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqNIbJPLoLo

The highlights were two pieces of music sung by our newly formed Children’s Choir (big turn out today). On their second offering the senior choir joined in. The very large congregation (it feels like attendance doubles between 955 and 1010 am) was energized and inspired by what they heard and saw. Lori Errington, who joined our church last Sunday, was in the AV balcony, then sprinted to read the Gospel. She returned to help coordinate the AV work for Eileen Eisener’s funeral. Way to go Lori!

The most meaningful part of my day was a conversation with Gerry Gunter, who recalled he was Chair of Council when Woodlawn was debating same gender marriages. In my sermon I spoke of Bob Watts’ presentation, shared with me by his family. Gerry told me Bob wasn’t the only parent who spoke with emotion on this matter of justice and love.

Later, another large gathering celebrated Eileen Eisener’s life. Here it is: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZj9xt5Z8Wma8f5tXGHhXGcJS1l5oRwF383V

After the service ended, many stood near the four large quilts in the sanctuary Eileen had worked on (thank you Pauline Levy for the information). And…several sat near Gus as he continued to play Leaving Music on the piano. Those sitting near were enthralled by his ministry of music. I did not get downstairs for some time after the service, many persons who had attended other churches where I served, were present. It is truly a small world. The four living Eisener children were very grateful to Woodlawn for this celebration of their mother’s life.

Later still, the dinner theatre cast assembled for a practice. My voice remains intact. That is comforting to me, likely not so much for you.

Peace, Kevin