I am writing this letter not to make clearer the Gospel lesson of the week, nor to give my opinion on world matters; you get inundated with that stuff 24 hours a day. My purpose with this letter is to share the wealth of this congregation - you.

    The first person I reached out to in the congregation was Karen Apland. I of course mistook her for someone else. I found her to be wise and insightful as well as humorous. Her gifts to this congregation continue to grow. I started talking to Jim Apland because he handed me my check. I like him because he’s grounded while everything else around him is up in the air. Carol Busby is my friend. No, we don’t go many places together; no, we don’t talk very much; we’ve eaten maybe two times away from the church; but if I ever felt I needed someone to watch my back, I know I could count on her. Bob is a different matter. Every time I talk to Bob I feel that he’s become born again. Not that he’s become fanatical; but more like he’s gone through something cathartic, or had an epiphany. It’s like watching those slow motion camera scenes where a rosebud becomes a flower.

    Robin Bradbury came into this church like she was here from the beginning. She fit perfectly into the choir, her attitude exudes joy, and she feels the love we give and gives it back the same way. Pastor Anne is a hard working individual. After dealing with three other pastors; she is the only one who actually wants my opinion. I like working with Jim Carlson because no matter what the situation he has a smile to return.

    Though I haven’t had much contact with anyone but Debrianna Dimas; I believe the Dimas’ to be an example of a typical American family. The Doering’s have touched my heart. Ken with his humorous cynicism and straight talk, Linda with her struggle against the insanity on the phone, Jennifer with her delicate rebellion, Sarah and her need to understand, and Rachel with her wondrous curiosity.

    Becky & Jay Everson are just beginning to show us their talents. Marilyn is an anachronism. At first glance she appears to be delicate and shy. But when she takes chances and stands that most of us would turn away from, you either have to change your perception or build a new basis of determination. I used to worry about her before I recognized her strong spirit.

    People say stuff like: “He gave it his all” and “I’m gonna give 110%”. Well, Roger gives 200%. He comes to the church when it needs anything. From trimming trees to necessary talks about stewardship as well as boosting our morale with comments about how well we’re doing. Charlotte Happel would be the base of our tree if we were one. She keeps us rooted in firm soil reminding us of our heritage.

    Ted Hemmig is a quiet man with multiple talents. Together he and I have fixed the air conditioning, put in the wood floor in the fellowship hall (with Ken D. & Jim A.), and moved more pews than we care to remember. Aside from the physical things that Ted can do, I have been witness to him sitting down with a total stranger and changing their life. I have had the pleasure of Kathy’s friendship all the time I have been at New Creation. She has stimulated me to go further than I thought I could.

    The Lawler’s are a delight. I’ve had insightful talks with Josh, playful talks with the girls, and meaningful polite conversation with both Matt and Mimi. They have jumped in and helped this church whenever they could, providing teaching, gardening, and entertainment. I met Margaret through her husband. He was always heading to the restroom and I was always avoiding pastor K’s insipid sermons. Sunday mornings don’t seem complete unless I say hello to or give Margaret a hug.

    It’s confession time. Julie is the other woman. Though totally platonic we have had our fights and disagreements and makeup’s just like a regular couple. We have a bond just like regular couples also. Gwen and I felt a bond the first moment we met. She has an innate ability to hear music. Harry Welton has dropped by the office more than anyone. He comes by and gives me meaningful advice that I can use.

    Bill Parks is a member/non-member. He joins us every Friday morning, comes to most of our events, including workdays & takes pictures. He has joined us for some Sunday’s. We need to give Steve & Christine Paszkiewicz a medal. As soon as they joined, we gave them the toughest jobs in the church. We must be doing something right because they’re still here.

    Sally Pierce is a strong yet tender woman. I’ve seen her cry over the same things that make me cry, raise two very independent girls, and still stand up to everyone including me. Jean Richards is a kind, considerate human being. She not only helps the church in many ways, but also helps her neighbor when she sees an injustice.

    Frank & Joan Ronco. There’s nothing else to say about them other than they are family. The Sahoo’s exemplify that word. Loretta & Ashok have helped in every way possible, Jonathan has given us his artistic talents over and over, and Christopher has put up with being with girls in bell choir.

    Ken Sparks accepts our faults graciously and gives what he can every Sunday and at our events. I enjoy greeting and talking with Walter Spears whenever he comes. I have found Ginny Sullivan to be highly intelligent, wise in the Word, and very helpful. Linda Tremoureux is someone that we need to approach more often. She has hidden talents.

    Together with Rick’s gentle knowledgeable persuasion and Glenda’s cool wisdom, the Voss’ are a creative force here at New Creation.

    And together, we the congregation of New Creation welcome all to join us.

Jim Underwood