I followed my husband to GLC as he was ready for a change from the last congregation. I felt I needed to be with him and honor his decision. Still have great friends in the former church, but they have some beliefs I can't support at this time. Mainly around the LGBQT community. Music has always been our magnet. Music is paramount wherever I am.

Grace felt like my church once I got to engage with folks and sing in the choir--actually I think Grace Notes was my first group. I knew lots of folks at Grace so transition was not difficult.

I was always impressed with the active teams and the outreach of grace. Quilt Sunday was terrific as my mom was a quilter and I appreciated the incredible work that was done and given worldwide. Holy Week marathon was always engaging and I usually had creative ideas which were sought after to pull off the plethora of tasks associated with the week. Music is always meaningful. Covid has kinda taken the wind out of my sails. Compline became a spiritual place to fill my cup even though VERY FEW worshipers came it was a fulfilling experience for the singers. Advent Brunch has been a special event which always needed leadership. Although mixed feelings have transpired, it met a special need for the ladies of the church., especially. All of the special services and Holy days have been significant each in their own way.

As a participant in the cold weather shelter helpers at the Methodist church, it seemed to me that Grace could figure out a sprinkler system or extra building to house folks from the elements of weather..............Future Pride events could be held at Grace. The youth have always been invested in financially, emotionally, spiritually, with incredible support and that is a critical piece to continue......... MUSIC has had such a traditional role of excellence in the community---it would be a sad day to not support and foster full time leadership.

I was not raised Lutheran, but I have weaved an appreciation for liturgy in and out of traditional and current worship styles. I still find strength in the old hymns, and like most styles of music . There is nothing more sacred to me than harmony—in music and in relationships. Amen

I have a fair share of trials. Pr. James finds his way into my life with support. Always have related to the music ministers. Many friends have shared counsel and strength to help me through rough patches. Friendship has historically been my well-spring of faith and kindness.

Mission statements are always esoteric to some degree, but I think Grace does a great job of working at it consistently. There are some outstanding folks who make this machine work. It is always hard on some to shoulder the load.

Our Covid Care Callers probably had some moments of real helpfulness to reach out to folks. I personally developed relationships that were very meaningful and still haven't met some of them in person.....I look forward to that day.

Peace at the Last is a great ministry--perhaps that could be opened to others other than Befrienders… Some people have a heart for that, that might want to be included. Follow up with new attendees might be improved. Appreciation of staff and leaders could always be increased in various ways.

Re-entry is surprisingly hesitant, but joyfully anticipated. Little by little it will come. I personally have some family issues which will take a while to figure out and I will be back.

I have told non-members that Grace is filled with talented, committed, lovely people who do care about their community. It is pretty white--little by little that might change.

Naturally, I tend to talk about music and the acoustics of the building. Behind the scenes are the service and social justice leaders who make things happen. Such beautiful people!

I feel a part of the Grace community because of music, compline, creative worship, support of youth, special projects, liturgical yearly activities, and caring for folks behind the scenes---there's undoubtedly more----

Fox Trust: Set some money aside for updating the building for homeless? music/ministry scholarships. on-going music leadership