Mary's Musings:  (January 20)

               What an amazing time we have had since the first of this year---you know that year that we were so anxious to start since the past year 0f 2009 had been so stressful.  The truth is the rest of this year will not be without its difficulties as well.   And we all know that!
                We said goodbye to Robin Hough on Wednesday, a beautiful woman whose life was far too short, from our human estimation, but who in that shortened amount of time had influenced so many.  And this congregation did what this congregation does so well---comforted the family as much as they possibly could.  But beyond even that, I know that this congregation will continue to support this family through daily prayer and through words of encouragement whenever you see them.  
                I would like to also remind you that beyond our nation's boundaries is a country, Haiti, that is also hurting, and that we can also help them through Week of Compassion.  All the monies that are taken in by the Week of Compassion are used for relief so that you know that 100% of your offering to them will be used for relief.  Southeast Gateway Area also has two missionaries in Haiti, a young married couple with a son, Kim and Patrick Bentrott.  Fortunately for the area of Haiti that they are in Kim is a medical doctor.  Monies can be sent to them through our SEGA office.  So you have two opportunities to give---through Week of Compassion or through SEGA.  And prayer is always appropriate, for it truly is the gift that keeps on giving.