Amen to that!

That's a great idea Brian. Maybe when I hear about things like that I need to ask the family to be there for a special prayer or something. I'll steal that idea lol! But, it also feeds into my frustration that I mentioned -- would people then come to church that day for the couple, or to encounter God? I have to assume that if they would not be in church that day without this special blessing for the couple, then they were there to see the couple, and not God. Dan.
P.S. I look forward to checking out your site.

Yes I have. though the language is a bit archaic, the theme is probably more relevant now than ever. God bless, Dan

\"Where two or three are gathered ...\" Right! It is one of those statements that we know is true, but it is hard to accept and acknowledge it on equal footing with churches with much larger numbers and activities. But we need to embrace it as one of God\'s wonderful realities. And thanks for your concern. God bless, Dan

Thank you so much for your prayers Jean. It was so ironic that Ann said that and the next day I read that comment from a church leader and it struck me how deep Jesus\' love for his church is and how much that must hurt the Lord. God bless, Dan

Pam, you bring up a very interesting point about filling pastoral vacancies in rural areas. Only last week I received an email from a person who really wants a rural call, but can't becuase she doesn't have a degree. I see pro's and con's on this issue and would love to get discussion going. May I have permission to post your comment as a blog and let the discussion get going? Let me know. God bless Dan and thanks for sharing

Thank you for your comments Dorene. If you have anything to add to it, please do. Dan

Lou, I think this is a great idea. Thanks for sharing it.

Jean, your comments showed up today on the site. Sorry if you've been having trouble posting. If you are, please let me know. God bless, Dan

Thank you so much Ivy. I appreciate your words and prayers. Dan