Greetings  members and friends of Memorial:

I would like to update you all on my  continued recovery from my recent hospitalizations.  Of all of my blockages that didn’t end in surgery, this has been by far the most complicated, difficult and painful.   I am slowly getting better day by day.  I have been at home now since last Friday after the second hospitalization.  I continue to struggle with pain and fatigue and I am now almost out of my prescribed pain killers so the next few days will be a challenge.

But even with that, I do feel a sense of optimism.  I have gotten some increased strength each day and I am now able to do some basic work at my desk moving forward.  My hope and prayer is that I will be able to at least be present in worship this Sunday, and if possible, lead whatever portions I can.

I want to say a special thank you to Vicar Dawn for her leadership during this time.   Her pastoral presence and diligence to covering so many things have been a real blessing to our church.  And a special thanks to all of you for your prayers and well-wishes.  I feel them and they are truly crucial to my recovery.

So, I look to the future with hope and passion for our shared work together.  I may take longer to get to 100% than I initially thought, but I look forward to moving forward on our outreach plan, continuing our great work with children and youth and sustaining our vibrant worshiping community as we find ourselves ever more dependent on God’s abundant grace present in Word and Sacrament.

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Joel