In Grand Forks, Nebraska a decade ago hell and high water assaulted the spirits of the residents. Water from the overflowing Red River combined with burning buildings spelled disaster. One victim remembers in the aftermath the presence of a volunteer who had come from the East to give aid and comfort. There was a moment when she saw in the face of the volunteer the eyes of God.
When Dale spoke to us about the utility of gods, he recalled his appreciation for the poetic metaphors incorporated into each of the Greek deities. I think the resident of Grand Forks worshipped a loving God, and the volunteer was witnessing for a benevolent, generous God that she worshipped.
During Candidating Week I pray I am witnessing for the God of Hospitality. My prayer to this deity is that I am able to follow her commandments authentically – not because of compulsive obedience to an institutionalized sense of hospitality.
In this moment I am eager for my first meeting with John, Jess, [and their children]. When you read this I hope that you have already had happy experiences with them. Please share with me your memories of those moments. May this week be a blessing for each of us.
Carl Newton
2006-2007 Church President
