Thirteen years of ministry at Alsfeldt and Knox United Churches culminated in one fond farewell service recently for Rev. Heather and John Leffler at the Knox United Church in Clifford.
Members and guests were greeted by the sounds of music by organist Judith Anne Douglas, pianist Sharon Prieb, and voices of the choir.
Rev. Leffler offered thanks for her time with the congregation, “As we experience the sadness of endings tinged with the anticipation of new beginnings, we remember that wherever we are we remain brothers and sisters in Christ,” she said.
The Christ candle was lit by Braden Newman as the children gathered at the front.
Rev. Leffler’s sermon focussed on finding peace when struggling with faith.
Rob Fletcher sang Above All, Helen, Chris, and Brenda Newman sang Count Your Blessings, and Dia and Carmen Underwood sang Here I Am Lord. Dia Underwood read the scriptures.
Everyone was invited to share a pot luck lunch before sharing in a time of reflection, presentations, and a farewell to Rev. Heather, John, Sarah, Helen and Robert, and Lisa.
Ellen Underwood invited Heather Giles to sing Memories before Jim Measures and Claude Field from Adult Fellowship offered a thought-provoking joke and a few Sports memorabilia items for John, who also had gifts in mind for them.
Christian education chairperson Jennifer Devlin wrote a poem about Rev. Leffler’s qualities read by Jana Kreager.
Ryan Kreager shared a birthday with Rev. Leffler and offered a story about friendship and grace.
On behalf of the congregation, Jean Field, Elsie Grummett, and Elaine Field presented Rev. Leffler with a quilt lovingly stitched in secret.
Rev. Leffler expressed her gratitude and love and joy of service by presenting each congregation with wooden Christmas decorations.
Rev. Leffler is moving to a new ministry at a Rockwood-Stone United Churches. The family will be living in Guelph.
