Golden rays on rainy days
Nearly every year since I’ve been on staff at St. Paul, the annual Golden Agers event, a worship celebration for members of the congregation 75 years and older, has seen rain clouds. This year, the rain held off until nearly every guest had left. But truly, the overall mood was as happy and joyous during those rainy events as they were during the sunshine of yesterday’s celebration. The cold and the rain don’t seem to really dampen the spirits of those in attendance. In fact, there’s always a coming together outside the front doors.
Umbrellas are gathered and staff are at the ready, waiting outside as car doors are opened, umbrellas at the ready. Attendees come prepared with warm jackets and head coverings, huddled closely as they make the chilly trek inside.
Once inside, jackets are shed, umbrellas are shaken out, and warm hugs are shared. The cold and rainy weather outside isn’t even a thought for the next few hours. Maybe a glance outside will be a reminder but for right now, there’s warmth in each other’s company.
That is a profound part of this congregation. Walking alongside each other on cloudy days or, as the rain held out this year, celebrating in the sunshine. We all have seasons of rainy, dreary days, personally and as a community. We do our best to have our warm jackets and scarves ready but sometimes those jackets don’t quite warm us when we’re chilled to the bone. What really brings us deep comfort and warmth during those days is the coming together of a community, walking alongside one another, holding each other, or an umbrella, up.
It’s also basking in the golden rays of the sunny days together as well. We excitedly hear about the happy rays of babies born, graduations, marriages, and bucket list trips and celebrate them together.
What a blessing it is to have a community to sit with, to walk alongside, to hold umbrellas for, and to know an umbrella will be waiting during all seasons of life.
Vicki Felger
Well as a very golden ager, I just always feel a warm ray of sunshine when I see you and your big smile. Your welcomes are always sincere and gracious, making me feel like I’m home! Thanks Jess!
Joan Bruce
A beautiful message, Jessica. This is such a wonderful event. Our St.Paul staff puts their heart and soul into this celebration .
Marie Lindmark
Beautiful, beautiful description of our Golden membership.
KD Kalber
Thanks, Jessica! Your message reminds me of the special thoughts and feelings I had while serving our Golden Agers this year. It was a special day for me as well!
Lyle Peterson
Nice message. Thanks
Marcia Willi
Jessica.. this touched my heart reminding me of my own parents ( long deceased), but also of the older congregants of St. Paul