A Christ Church Send Off

Yesterday was a very special day in my heart as it was my last Sunday with Christ Church before my departure this Friday.  I must say my Christ Church family really knows how to send off a missionary!  

My morning began with our 10:30 service where we had a beautiful baptism for one of the young members of the church.  Not only do I love baptisms, but it meant so much to renew my baptismal covenant one last time with my family here.  It's such a wonderful reminder of why we do mission work.  The service also included a touching send off prayer from my rector, Webster Gibson.  

After the service, we celebrated in our parish hall with a cake and refreshments.  But little did I know that the fun wouldn't stop there...

Later in the evening, I thought I was headed to dinner with our assistant rector, Bridget Coffey, but instead I was met with quite the surprise of an all inclusive holiday party.  The parish hall had been decorated with many of the holidays of the year.  We enjoyed an all American dinner with some of my favorite foods.  The evening included music from each of the seasons and even a lovely rendition of "Happy Birthday."  I think that's the first time I've ever heard "Happy Birthday" sung to me in August!

The day was filled with smiles and laughter and was such a wonderful way to say orevwa!  Thank you so much Christ Church family!  I'm very excited that you'll be with me on this journey!