Well... that's it

This morning was the 5th and final Sunday of the project. Frankly, though, I don't feel like I've actually finished anything because there is still plenty to do. This morning went very well, though a little long. So, before the 11:00 service, we decided to cut a few things (middle hymn, some of the prayers of the people, etc.) because we had to end on time. At 12:00 we had a Thanks-Giving lunch to culminate the Stewardship Campaign, so we really couldn't go long. So, we cut stuff, but then Bryan did not arrive, so we had to sing part of the middle hymn afterall. Then, he didn't cut his sermon at 11, he actually went 2 min. longer. So, all the time we saved (well, the 4 1/2 min.) we lost so we were still 8 min. over. Oh well. I hate the fact that we have to time everything to the second. I don't know how to avoid it though, with the two services running concurrently. Someday, perhaps we'll figure out something different. I hope.

This morning was the final Sunday of our Stewardship campaign, and the day to bring our pledge cards for 2008. So, after the sermon, while Mary played Be Thou My Vision, people walked forward to put their cards in the baskets at the front. However, they were not just bringing pledge cards. During the sermon, Bryan instructed people to write thank you notes to God on strips of ribbon they were given as they walked in the sanctuary. Along with the offering and pledge cards, people brought the ribbons. Then, after each service, two of the team took the ribbons and attached them to a wreath with a big red fabric cross in the middle. It really turned out beautifully. I'll try to take a picture of it and post it sometime this week. The wreath was then on display as people left the luncheon and then will also be used in our Thanksgiving Eve service on Wednesday and on display next week. Anyway, the ladies who came up with the idea really made a beautiful piece of artwork. I'm very excited about it. It was a good, tangible, way for people to express their thanks individually, but also corporately as one Body, united in Christ.

This week is Thanksgiving week, and I am planning to take a break and enjoy the time with family and friends. I'll still blog each day for NaPoBloMo, but they will probably be short and sweet - place holders, shall we say. Then, when I return from my respite, the writing will begin in earnest.