What does St. Paul’s means to me:
I can sum it up in one word: HOME
I have been a life long member of St. Paul’s. I was baptized here; went to pre-school here, was confirmed here; married here and I raised my kids here.
But growing up, I moved around a lot.
I went to 11 schools before starting college and lived in 11 homes. I have attended many different churches, under different denominations.
But the constant “home” in my life, has always been St. Paul’s.
The minute I walk through that heavy wooden door, I feel a sense of calm come over me. The red carpet, the white walls, the gold fixtures. There is even a scent in here that brings me peace.
I remember my grandmother and aunt working the rummage sale for years. I can still hear the slightly gravely voice of Howard Graham, who always felt like a grandfather to me.
There were endless years of dropping kids off at pre-school and Vacation Bible School. As they got older, confirmation classes (which they tended to complain about) and then the mission trips, which they loved.
This church has pulled me through some of the tougher times in my life. I have shed plenty of tears sitting in the balcony.
Christmas never really feels like Christmas until the late-night Christmas Eve service, when the lights dim, the candles are lit, and Paul plays the harmonica.
So, St. Pauls’ is not only home for me, but home for my kids, and home for our memories. I’m sure many of you share similar feelings. So, at this time, please reflect on what St. Paul’s means to you and how we can continue to support our church and our community for generations to come.
– With love, Katie Burns