Aunt Ethel

My Aunt Ethel called me today. Ethel is my dad’s “baby sister” and is the last surviving member of Pop’s family of origin. She is 98 years young and I’m convinced she will still be around long after I’m dead and gone.

I’ve always had a special connection with Ethel because she was a minister’s wife. Uncle Homer served as a Methodist pastor for many years. I think she understands me better than most and has always been supportive.

Since her husband was a Methodist pastor, she was thrilled to hear that the good Methodists at Mount Vernon had given us a place to worship while we build our new church. She calls every once in awhile to see if any Methodism has rubbed off on me.

She was even more thrilled to hear about our partnership with the Kingstowne Communion Church. She loved the idea that Kingstowne will be renting space from us when we open our new building. Aunt Ethel is very ecumenically minded.

I gave her the rundown of where we are in the building project, how we have scheduled a groundbreaking ceremony for May 5th, and hope to open the new building in the Spring of 2025. As we were saying goodbye at the end of the phone call, Ethel reminded me that she is praying for us. She said she prays every night for me, my family, and for our building project.

I was deeply touched by her words. How powerful to know that my dad’s sister, who knows a thing or two about churches, building projects, and church conflict, is lifting us up every night before she goes to bed. I feel better knowing that this prayer warrior is in our corner.