Before we start in on the prayers tonight, I need to mention a couple of other things.
One is to say “thank you” to all the posters who filled in for me while I was gone the last couple of weeks: musing85, x, Cali Scribe. You all did a wonderful job. I and all the readers of The Word for the Week and Brothers and Sisters appreciate your work.
Second, a mini-report on our expedition to Mahanoy City. It’s freaking gorgeous up there! I’m glad I took Jen’s advice and thought better of preaching a controversial sermon. There were all of 17 people in church this morning, including the Pastors and the organist. So that’s 15 adults and two kids, and 12 of the big people were old enough to be grandparents.
More below, plus a pic.
Not only was the congregation small in number, they were sweet as the day is long. One grandmother came back after the service and grabbed hold of my hand, held it all through a conversation about the best place to have lunch. We ran into another couple at the recommended diner, and they grabbed our lunch check.
They didn’t need to be harassed about something they couldn’t do anything about. Not when their community is limping along–they’ve recently lost their pastor and one church of their 3-point charge.
Besides, I’m invited back for the next two weeks. I’ll have another crack at them.
In their honor, a hymn of prayer, a real chesnut:
O Master, let me walk with thee
in lowly paths of service free;
tell me thy secret; help me bear
the strain of toil, the fret of care.Help me the slow of heart to move
by some clear, winning word of love;
teach me the wayward feet to stay,
and guide them in the homeward way.Teach me thy patience; still with thee
in closer, dearer company,
in work that keeps faith sweet and strong,
in trust that triumphs over wrong,In hope that sends a shining ray
far down the future’s broadening way,
in peace that only thou canst give,
with thee, O Master, let me live.