These are the words the Apostle Paul wrote to his friend and fellow worker in ministry, Philemon. Just as Paul was reminding Philemon that he always thanked God for his faith and love, so too do I want to tell you, my co-workers in ministry at Bethlehem, how much I appreciate you and all you did to make my 25^th ordination anniversary so very special. I also want each of you to know that I thank God for you for your faith and love.

In all honesty, I have still not recovered from the beautiful celebration you held for me. The words, the displays of affection and the presence of my family celebrating with all of you were truly overwhelming. For the first time in my twenty five years of ordained ministry I found myself nearly speechless . . . the words were simply overcome by the affection I feel for all of you.

I also want to thank you for the beautiful gift of the clergy ring. This is something I have wanted for many years and I want all who made this gift possible to know how meaningful it is to me. I will wear it humbly as a constant reminder of the Spirit’s Call to the Holy Ministry and the love of those who gave it to me.

Although I have only been at Bethlehem for eight of my twenty five years of ministry I found great joy in standing between the past and the future and to contemplate the history we have made and have yet to make. Standing in that place with you, Diane and my family brought about a sea of emotions. I don’t think I have ever laughed and cried so much at the same time in my entire life. Indeed, it was the fellowship of Christians at its best. To those who spoke and brought about this wonderful mix of emotions, Lee Fischer, Bob Murray, Tracy Cripe, Pastor Jacobs, and my dear friend Rev. Larry Vogel, I say "thank you." For the other member of the organizing committee, Brenda Murray, Brad and Tammy Moe, Barbara Jacobs, Val Jackson and Joy Collins, I am deeply grateful. To Kathleen Olive, who used her God-given gifts of music to enhance the celebration, I am so very appreciative. To all the members of Bethlehem who celebrated this special day with me in person or in spirit, I can only say, along with the Apostle Paul: "I always thank my God [for you] as I remember you in my prayers."

In His service and love,

Pastor Dana