Each week during our "Share the Message, Share our Message" campaign, a member of our congregation will share their message about why First Congregational is such a special place. Some of these messages will be archived on the menu to the right.
Good morning! My name is Dexter Miller and I’d like to describe briefly for you my two-year journey from sorrow and despair to a feeling of contentment and even joy. First Congregational has played a major role in this journey.
Sorrow and Loss
Just before Christmas 2006 my wife Barbara and I were packed and ready to start a trip to Boston to visit our daughter Eve and her family. We had lived in Houston for more than 30 years. All our kids were grown and living elsewhere.
Barbara suddenly fell in a faint. I was unable to rouse her, so I called 911 and had just enough time to call Eve and tell her we weren’t coming. The doctors found that she had suffered a major cranial hemorrhage that would be fatal. By the time I returned home, some of my children had already arrived, and the rest of the family was on its way.
Two days later, Barbara passed quietly away. The family planned a service to celebrate her memory, and everyone (including all nine grandchildren) gave a sincere commentary to her memory. Four of the grandchildren spontaneously got up and sang a hymn in her praise.
The family love eased my sorrow quite a bit.
First Congregational in Houston
Barbara and I had not been regular church attendees, but as Easter (2007) approached I thought I should try it out for the holiday. The First Congregational Church was nearby, and had been the site of Eve’s wedding some years back. I was received enthusiastically by the members, some of whom were neighbors who knew of my loss.
In his Easter sermon, the Pastor (Jack Cook) made the following points: “Jesus died and ascended to heaven. But, folks, he’s not up there.” (pointing up) “He’s down here.” (covering his heart)
This came as a revelation, since I realized that this was where my beloved wife was, and would always be.
I was no longer alone, and felt some joy, which has stayed with me ever since. I became a regular at the church in Houston and felt accepted and a part of the family.
First Congregational in Fort Worth
In February 2008 I moved to Fort Worth to be near my son Timothy and his family (Mary Alice, and daughters Elise and Claire). I asked them about a Congregational Church in Ft. Worth. Mary Alice is a good friend of Carol Burnett, and told Carol that I’d be visiting. The next Sunday, Carol was waiting for me, giving me the now familiar hug and warm embrace. She introduced me around and everyone made me feel welcome.
I became a regular attendee. In May 2008 I joined the church, and this is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. First Congregational has become one of the Centers of my life.
This spring, Pastor Dave made the remark that “God is Love.” And that’s what I feel in this room! As you come into the church, you pass our famous signs: “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.” This is not just a fine motto. The congregation means it. We mean it!
And I’m grateful from the bottom of my heart. |
