Wednesday, November 13, 2024 - Rev. Wendy Paterson

Greetings from St. Andrew's! This week it is my privilege to share some MUSINGS with you from my perspective as the Pastoral Care Coordinator. I am now into my fifth year in this position and although I sometimes feel a little weary, I still consider myself very blessed to be involved in the lives of many people in lots of different and interesting ways.  

Let me tell you about last weekend, for example. On Saturday, I officiated at a funeral for a member of St. Andrew's who moved out of the city shortly after I arrived. Although I never actually met her, I felt like I got to know her quite well by listening to the many stories of her life as told to me by her family. They told me about the ups and downs she experienced, her strengths and weaknesses, her faith, her joys and sorrows and about how Alzheimer’s disease changed her so much. In our conversations, I also got to know her son and daughter-in-law quite well. When we finally met in person for the first time in the chapel on Saturday, they felt like good friends to me and I was honoured to lead the funeral service for their loved one. I was also glad to chat with the members of the W.A. who had been working all morning to prepare the food for the luncheon. What a wonderful ministry that is.

Sunday began with worship, and after 45 years in ministry, participating in the leadership of worship is still a role I cherish. This past Sunday, along with the regular components of worship, we also had a Remembrance Day part and Baptism. Four darling children were welcomed into the family of God through this holy sacrament. It was a bit of a challenge getting all the names straight and dealing with a two-year-old who decided at the last moment that she didn't want me touching her forehead with water. Fortunately, I had had a similar experience with one of my own grandchildren so this time I was a bit better prepared and we got it done. I confess, I was somewhat relieved when the baptism was over and I could sit back in peace and listen to the choir and the sermon. But still it was an incredible privilege to be invited into the lives of these little ones, their parents, and grandparents at such a meaningful time in their lives. How awesome it is to share God's love in this special way.

Today I have been with a family dealing with end-of-life issues and some of the difficult decisions that must be made. Sad as it is, I am glad to be with people at times like these, to offer prayer, to listen and to sense the presence of God with them.

Everyday also seems to be filled with emails – emails about the upcoming worship services, about prayer requests to be sent out to the prayer team, emails from people who are struggling or sick or in need of some support. Sometimes it seems like emails have replaced phone calls but both are good ways to communicate and to be present with people.

My one regret as the Pastoral Care Coordinator is that I am not able to do as much in-home visiting as I had hoped to do when I first took on this role. First there was Covid and now I seem to get lingering colds. Nobody would be happy if I brought germs or viruses to them. I have taken on a few extra tasks in the vacancy that are also taking up some of my time. I'd like to say, 'I will come and visit you soon' but I really cannot promise that will happen. Usually I can only manage to visit in homes when someone is very ill or has a critical need.

Thank-you for your support and encouragement. I know some of you pray for me regularly and I appreciate that very much. I am truly grateful to be able to serve God in this special way at St. Andrew's.

God bless you all.
Rev. Wendy Paterson