We shall miss him for many reasons. First he is a man of great compassion and everyone can use a good example of living mercy in their lives. In the complexity of human community, George was not a source of drama. (In truth, he was known as a source of tootsie rolls to many.)
Second, his faith was front and center. It was about Jesus and the love Jesus both lived and taught. In George's children's sermons, "Jesus" was a safe answer to almost any question. (not necessarily a right answer, but always a safe answer.) He taught the youngest ones the rudiments of our liturgy with "The Lord be with you" and "Go in peace"
He was generous in spirit, in time and in things material. His spirit shone among us and lifted us up. He organized and delivered children's sermons at both worship services for over 15 years. He provided financial support to many ministries, fund raising efforts and events held at LM. Many a twenty were pulled from his pocket to help out a cause.
He was the adult that children could count on. He was safe; they could sense his love for them and knew they could approach him at any time. In an atmosphere which is dominated by adults, George was the go-to guy for the kids. Many of our current teens never knew anyone else delivering the weekly children's message; he's always been 'their guy'.
In his personal faith life, he sought to grow and learn and to give back a portion of that new understanding to others.
These are some of the reasons we find it hard to say good-bye to this saint of God even knowing that he will find a place to serve others and tell Jesus' story in far off Alabama. Like the disciples were sent out to take what they had learned to new towns and new people, George will carry the story of Jesus with him.....and of course discover new friends with whom to serve God and neighbor.
Traveling mercies to George and Marie. Blessings on this new chapter in your life. You will be a blessing to those you are about to meet, just as you have been a blessing to us.
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