So many beautiful people have come together to create tapestry of friendships in 2025. Some old friends and some new, came together through service and the gentle rhythms of community life. Our church has blessed us with treasured friends as each one of us share our own special gifts.
Last spring, while bringing the church gardens and lawn back to life, we met a lovely gentleman who lives across the street. Born in an island country across the Pacific, life brought him to our desert town. With the biggest smile, through broken English, we’ve shared a few minutes under the warm spring sunshine. Friendships start with a “Hello” and sometimes continue with broken English and a smile.
We found a home for “Lucky Duck” later in the year. When we found her lost and alone, baking in the summer sun, something had to be done. HHH brought relief with the hose, giving her a place to cool off. A stylist from the cute little Salon across the street came later in the day to retrieve her. “LD” is enjoying her spot with the flock to this day, while I now enjoy great haircuts from the salon.
During breakfast fests on mornings before church, we’ve gotten to know more about each person that comes to share a bite before worship. From Sweet Bernie (90+), who bakes for us every week, to the youngest of us who is just “FOE” (translated — 4), we’re family throughout the week, not just on Sunday.
Thursday Bible Study, with its popcorn and cookies, continues to be one of my favorite gatherings. The seasoned scholars with their well-loved Bibles sitting next to the newcomer Bibles with their crisp, unmarked pages. The questions lead us on many adventures through the land Jesus walked with his apostles. Laughter fills the room like sunshine while friendships deepen with each verse. It’s a weekly reminder that faith grows best in circles.
Grief Share brought healing to those of us who needed space to breathe and speak. The meditation garden, with its roses, chimes, and sacred quiet , is a refuge for more people than we ever expected. The simple act of maintaining it while pulling weeds, rearranging stones, and trimming back stubborn branches feels holy in its own way.
Then, there are the neighbors of Winterpast, always providing a wave and a smile. We have plenty of time to visit and a yard of leaves to chase. All this as we wait for the great reveal of the neighbor’s 2025 Christmas light display, which will be grand.
During our travels on the high seas, we learned that travelers bring their Bibles as well as their formal wear. How lucky to find out that each voyage includes daily Bible studies held in the chapel.
This year has shown us we’re not meant to walk alone. When we give our time, hands, and listening ears, we gain more than we give. For all of these things, we give Thanks!!!
