by Debbie Jorgens
Several Prince of Peace members sat with Kathleen Tempel in the gathering area of her assisted living facility. It was her 97th birthday, and Jan Hanson had organized a little party for her, complete with cake and coffee. Kathleen was overjoyed that we came to celebrate with her. “I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” she said (more than once). “And you should see the basket of cards I got from everyone at Prince of Peace…I just love my church so much!”
On the first Sunday of Advent, poster-sized greeting cards – lovingly made by Anne Haugan for our homebound members – lined three 8-foot tables. Everyone was invited to add their signature to the cards which were then distributed by the Befrienders. A few days later, Pastor Peter opened his email to find a note from Kay Halvorsen: “I visited my Mom, Arlo Overskei, today at Lyngblomsten. I’d like to thank you, and all her friends at Prince of Peace, for your ongoing love and support. It was so nice to see the Advent poster signed by people she and Dad have known over their years in the church they loved so much. Mom had a big smile on her face as I read the names to her.”
These are but two examples of the gratitude often expressed by Prince of Peace members who, through a card, visit, or phone call, have been reminded that although they may no longer be physically in our midst, they are still cherished members of our beloved community.