When Justin was a little boy, he'd gotten a 'care package' in the mail from his grandma with home-sewn outfits and pj's in it. I remarked that the Lord had sure blessed Grandma's hands to make those things for him. He agreed, and after a few minutes, he piped up, "The Lord blessed the hands of the banner makers, too..." Who would expect a little kid to notice the banners? All these years later, I can't help but think about that exchange when I see these lovely banners, made by Twila and June.
From the left see Terri T., Pastor removing his stole, Bonnie, Ellen, Jean, and Twila. The ladies can no longer go up and down the steps carrying the items removed from the altar so tonight Donna handed the items to the ladies for them to carry.
From the left see Pastor, Jean, Donna, Terri H., and Twila
This part is usually quite emotional for me to watch, as Terri H. would strip the altar and lay the items on her mom's outstretched arms. Ethel is not well so Terri T. stepped in to help, her first time. The last part of this ceremony is Pastor carrying the brass cross from the chancel, in the darkened sanctuary. Kathy R. played "What Wondrous Love Is This" on the organ while this was going on, timed perfectly with the ending of the hymn. All very well done...
