It was with a mixture of sadness, and hope for the future, that 20+ members of Immanuel gathered for their final worship service on December 28, 2008. As the year 2009 begins, the "diaspora" of Immanuel's members will have begun.
Based on the Gospel for the day (St Luke 2:25-40), Pr Burke concluded his homily by saying, "And now it is time to bid farewell to the ministry that you have so faithfully carried out at this place. It's time for us to join Simeon and Anna in saying, 'Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word.' I'm ready, Lord, for whatever may come. You've shown even me how much my life is in your hands. So, what can disturb me now? Life is good, but the best is yet to come!"
At the conclusion of the service, plaques, recognizing continued service to Immanuel over the years, were presented to LC Cook (head elder); Kelley Schau (organist); Lester Busse (usher and "jack of all trades"); the Viveros siblings (Nicholas, Rebecca, Cynthia, Melinda and Sarah) for their service as acolytes; Dana Aseves; Art Arellano (president of the congregation); and Pr Burke for his 5 1/2 years of providing Word and Sacrament ministry.
Then, members were invited to come to the Christmass treee and remove an ornament of two to take home, as a reminder of their participation in this last service.
