At the end of this month, after more than a decade of dedicated service, Betty, our church secretary, will step down. Betty has been much more than a secretary; she has been a constant source of support for our congregation, a quiet encourager, and a friend to all. We will deeply miss her, as her contributions have shaped our church in ways too numerous to count.
While cleaning her desk, Betty found an old memory stick tucked away—given to her by a beloved church member, Dee Angell, before she passed away. The stick contained writings Dee had created, telling heartfelt stories about members of our church. Dee seemed to have envisioned a project that would celebrate our congregation, though her vision remained unfinished.
When Betty discovered the memory stick, she thought of me. Knowing the friendship that Dee and I shared and my love for writing, she placed this treasure in my hands. The documents I discovered on the stick contained not just Dee’s words but also a part of her spirit, a testament to her love for this church and this community. Among them, she reflected: “In every pew sits a story waiting to be told—a story of love, resilience, and faith. Together, we are the threads that weave the fabric of our church.”
As I read Dee’s writings, I felt her voice once again filling the room—warm and wise, as though she were sitting across from me. “Make your writing more fluffy,” she would often say, her tone equal parts constructive and encouraging. Through these newfound stories, Dee reminded me of the power of memory and connection, reinforcing the ties that bind us as a church family.
As we say farewell to Betty, we carry forward the blessings she has given us: her unwavering kindness, her devotion to this church, and her ability to see the good in everyone. And as we cherish Dee’s words anew, we are reminded that angels, like Betty and Dee, reflect the enduring love of Jesus—the greatest gift of all—whose grace continues to shape and guide our lives, this Christmas and always.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
– James 1:17
Two ladies, and I mean ladies, I will always miss; each for their own ways of making people feel needed and appreciated! Great work Jim.
Thanks so much, Jamison, for the beautiful remembrance and tribute. I can only echo the respect and appreciation for these dear ladies; but, from a rather unique perspective. The assistance and support from Betty as a staff member and Dee as a congregation member were gifts I experienced as Interim Pastor, then Interim Music Director, and now as Music Director & Chaplain of the preschool. I was always happy to say that the first official visitor to my office as pastor was an Angel. It was Dee. Betty’s assistance and guidance in all these areas I served have been priceless as was Dee’s sharing and ideas. At the core, is Christian friendship. Your words are so appropriate and appreciated for these dear ladies.
Many thanks for the great review, my friend. I’m not surprised Dee was the first to welcome you as interim pastor. Indeed, two of our finest angels.
That’s about as perfect as it can be. It is a lovely tribute to Betty, especially with the words about Dee. It is a true reflection of the wonderful spirits at SCC.
Thank you for your always kind words. I truly appreciate you, Jane.