Losses!

Whoa, the loss of four great men in only a couple months; John Martin, Ernest Hooper, Norm Schlemmer, and now Bill Richardson! Great in the sense that each of these men is a great example of the Christian life we’re offered in following and becoming disciples of Jesus. Men whose Christian lives spoke across the generations.

Some interesting observations came to mind during their memorial services regarding the place of these men and Faith Church in the context of sharing the Gospel with an emerging culture.

• A large percentage of our newest members seem to be in the older generation. A reminder to us all that serving and sharing the Gospel with this generation is not to be taken for granted.
• These men’s lives are a reminder of the rock solid love of God that the emerging culture needs to hear and understand.
• A reminder that there is no retirement from the Christian life and sharing the work of Christ in the world.
• These men seemed to move freely between Faith’s worship services, both traditional and contemporary. I’m sure they had their preferences but the worship of God was the purpose and in these men it showed.

As we move forward together in faith, in the life of Faith Church, we would do well to remember and share these men’s stories.

They will be missed!