In Training

We moved to Storm Lake in 2001 where my parents lived.  On Sunday mornings if I didn’t travel with Mike, I would attend church with Mom and Dad, often sitting beside them.   My dad was independent and in charge.  He knew the way around the hymnal and how the service progressed.  He was ready for church to begin with the hymnal opened to the right page.

After about 4 or 5 years, I noticed that he was taking much longer, checking with the bulletin and finding the hymnal page number.  Sometimes I would try to help, pointing to the page number as he searched the hymnal.  I wanted to honor his dignity.  Sometimes I would find the page in my book and then trade books with him.

Life continued and there were circumstances with Holy Communion of receiving the bread and wine that needed more help and returning to the pew.

And then he and Mom would stay home, and the pastor would bring church to them.

And now my beloved needs help with the hymnal.