Thank You's

Please take a moment to read the following thank you letters.  One comes from Michael, and one comes from his mother, Rosalie.  The ministry of First Christian Church is long-lasting and far-reaching!

It has taken me several days to begin digesting all of the wonderful things that unfolded over the last two weeks, culminating with a truly memorable and fantastic celebration on Sunday, January 29.  I could not have imagined that Sunday happening in a way that could better encapsulate our ministry together.  Your generosity and kindness, while I feel it undeserved, will nonetheless be cherished forever.  The particular gifts you presented me with are all very much appreciated.   You seem to know me really well and that is perhaps the best testimony to the togetherness and relationships we enjoyed.  Whenever I wear my new robe, I will certainly feel your love enfolding me.  The gift certificates to the Teaching Company for more lectures and for winter running equipment are both thoughtful and appropriate.  I am thankful that you have appreciated how important these things are to me, and how they influence the way I preach and teach.   Moreover, the gift certificate to a charity of my choice is likewise very appropriate.  I have already thought of possibly using this donation to honor my father or engage our children in the decision so that it becomes a communal venture.  In any case, I will share with you our final decision and promise that we will do something for which you can be proud as well.  The individual gifts - the block of wood from the sanctuary beams, the book of explanation of the significance of the stained glass windows, the LSU t-shirts, the enormous basket of Cajun favorites, the wood carving and, of course, the snow shovel - will all be enjoyed by all of us.  The book of letters is honestly something I have not yet opened.  That is perhaps the most cherished gift.  I look forward to being in a quiet time and place to give attention to the letters that they deserve.  I can't begin to accurately and adequately put into words just what you gifts mean to me.  Let me say only that the pleasure of being your pastor has been all mine.  If I have done or said anything that has helped you in some small way on your faith journey, then I am humbled and privileged to have done so.  And know that I will be eternally grateful for all of the ways you have helped me grow.  FCC BRLA will forever inform all of my future ministries.  Of this I am sure.  And I will hold a place in my heart for FCC BRLA always.

Michael

Dear Friends –

With Michael now concluding his ministry with First Christian Church, I want to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the many kindnesses you have offered me whenever I visited Baton Rouge.  Thank you for welcoming me into your midst and making me feel at home.  It is easy to see that you practice a ministry of abundant generosity and gracious hospitality.

While these days bring great changes to all of us, may we be assured of the loving presence of God, who challenges and comforts us even while calling us to new beginnings.  I am confident your ministry will grow and flourish, blessing those you touch both within and beyond your community.  I will continue to be interested in keeping up with FCC happenings through your email newsletter.

Grace and Peace,

Rosalie Karunas