Being a pastor, it’s not often that I find myself free on a Sunday morning – but Sarah and I didn’t make it to church today. We were finishing up a really great weekend up in Murphys, CA. It was important for us to get away – to spend some time focusing on ourselves and getting a chance to enjoy one another’s company and take care of each other.
But I was particularly moved by the way in which other people in churches all around the country were honoring and remembering Micah and Judah today. Today was All Saints’ Day, a day to remember those saints who have gone on before us and who make up the great cloud of witnesses of our faith.
Today at the church where I serve, Asbury UMC, there was a special time of remembrance and candle lighting for Micah and Judah. Sarah’s home church, Third Presbyterian in Rochester, NY, had two white roses on the altar with Micah and Judah’s names in the bulletin. Last night, two candles were lit for Micah and Judah at my cousin’s wedding. At Family of Christ PC(USA) in Greeley, Colorado, Micah, Judah, Sarah and I were prayed for during the service. Micah and Judah were remembered aloud during the prayers of the people at St Luke’s in Jackson, TN. There were two white roses honoring Micah and Judah at worship tonight at Eckerd College. Micah and Judah were remembered in prayers at North Decatur Presbyterian Church in Decatur, GA. Students from a Catholic school in Portland have been praying for us and Micah and Judah. A few nights ago, some friends traveling in Italy lit a candle in a cathedral in Cortona, a cathedral which holds the robe of St. Francis.
And I’m guessing that the list could go on and on. In the past week, Sarah and I have been overwhelmed by the prayers and support we’ve received from family, friends and others. It’s been so incredibly meaningful that while we are grieving our loss, there are others who can lift us up, support us, and pray for us when we don’t have words.
The photo is of a necklace that Sarah ordered last week from Etsy, and was waiting for us at home today.
Sharmyn says
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing you journey. May you both continue to feel the Kingdom of Heavenembrace youwith pure love.
Dick says
You are making wise decisions to spend time alone, and at the same time to take comfort in all those who care. May God continue to be your bulwark.
Rob says
Absolutely: the Men’s Prayer group prayed for you last Thursday and in a sermon on justice and the gospel, I referenced your story as one of the injustices we face every day. That was in West Hebron, NY. So, know that you are loved and God is hearing about you from us.
Jill says
What a lovely necklace Sarah. Thank you both for sharing your inner thoughts and emotions – it helps us all. So much love is wrapped around both of you, I am glad you can feel our presence.
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katie says
We lit candles yesterday at First Presbyterian Church of Tiffin, OH, and while I didn’t speak their names, they were both on my heart. Happy all Saints Day! What a beautiful necklace to remember your children.
John Vest says
We’re doing our All Saints remembrances today. I’ll name Micah and Judah in prayer this afternoon. Peace and love to both of you.