Greetings, dear church and friends of the church,

I bring you peace and love in the name of the risen Christ. I returned Sunday from the beautiful state of New York. The memorial service for John McIntosh was beautiful. The service was held in a chapel built in the late 1700s. John’s family participated in the memorial, sharing touching stories and sentiments about their father, grandfather, and uncle. John’s great nephew, a professional opera singer, filled the wood and stone chapel with his powerful voice. There was a naval flag ceremony at the graveside that was incredibly moving.

At the same time, I missed you all terribly. My heart is broken, as is yours, over the loss of our dear brother Bill Parker. The thought of John greeting his friend Bill just inside those pearly gates was the thing that kept me going through this difficult weekend. I am grateful to God that I will see these men again, that their suffering is no more, and that they are busy watching over us in heaven.

I have spoken to Linda, and she sends love and thanks for the cards, text messages, and prayers. Bless you all for gathering her up in your arms as you have done for so many who have lost loved ones. I know that when I look out at you, I am in the presence of angels.

My love to all,
Mary