April 2026

Our Voice
Carol Kynett

An Up Mountain Journey 

Yes, an “up mountain”, not “up hill” one. Whether a brother, sister, child, parent, or spouse--when one dies, we all have, will, or are now walking this momentous, life-altering trudge, starting at the base. When my time came in July, it seemed formidable and oft times unscalable, as constant tears flowed from my eyes making for a slippery start. Having no children of my own, if it hadn’t been for my family--including my church family, close friends, and most importantly, the all-encompassing Love & guidance of the Lord--I would be lost, spiritually and emotionally. From the beginning (and before) He was there, gently pulling me up and over another crag and crevice. When my strength was gone, He allowed me to sit for as long as I needed, and still does. Without that strength, ever-present love and gentle touch, I’d have never reached my first mountain meadow--one of many to come--where I am today. And even though the nights continue being extremely difficult--lying alone in a bed that once held two--after the tears stop & the praying begins, I never fail to feel His strength, and then a comfortable sense of peace gently easing me to sleep. Again. And then to start over again tomorrow, and the next day, and the day after that.

As my journey continues “up mountain”, the Lord has promised & has given me a second life--each day continually filled with hope, transformation, and renewal. A loving gift from Him during this deeply wonderful and meaningful season of Lent: renewed Life that’s offered to all of us, even in the deepest of sorrows. “Sorrows really do come to stretch out spaces in the heart for joy." I see it every day.

Thank you, Lord.

Greetings, Rev.

Bye-bye cabin fever and hello Easter! I hope that the news of Jesus' resurrection sparks us toward a transformed, renewed life.

This newsletter has now been 3+ months in the works, delayed in part by a couple record snowstorms. I'm sure you've all seen enough snow to last til next season, but see how silly--and small--I look standing next to the snow in our parking lot! 

In that time, we had a self-defense class led by martial arts masters Dillon and Geoff, and also walked our journey through Lent, marked by ashes and palm tree leaves (see pictures). Also, melting season (a couple weeks ago) brought some personally unfamiliar sights: hungry birds feasting on the church lawn (never seen so many at once!), and a snow coating during Lent (apparently a good sign for potatoes). 

If this winter's suffering has taught us anything, it is that joy comes with the morning--spring mornings! May every hindrance in our lives be melted so we can approach our God and our creator freely and confidently.

We also share those members whom the Lord has taken from us:
Katherine Bockius (Jan 12)
Jeanne Lerro (Jan 29)
Gail Dohrn (Feb 03)
Shirley Jones (Feb 04)