I really do not have adequate words to express how very proud I am of all you who served at First Church this last weekend! You truly were “the hands and feet of Jesus” to literally thousands of people! I saw each of you giving “second and third mile” effort to care for the needs of hurting people - most who were cold, wet, tired and some who were in near medical emergencies. We have received several very kind e-mails from some very appreciative people and are beginning to receive letters as well. This Sunday Tony will share a highlight video of our Second Wind Marathon Ministry sharing some of the many comments we’ve already received.

I want to thank Lisa Turley and Sandie Blake for organizing our booth at The Expo and for all those who helped cook pancake “samples,” give away pancake mixes, greet folks and invite them to our “Blessing of the Shoes” Service. By the way; did you see the great article Carla Hinton wrote about our service last Saturday? We were one on of the featured articles on the front of the Religion Page.

Our Preeminent Greeter Bill Mullins organized greeters all morning at the doors. You’ll hear about Kris Nelson’s experiences via video this Sunday. You won’t want to miss it!

For those of you who served as Course Marshalls; I know you’re just beginning to dry and thaw out! Thanks for staying at your post and encouraging runners’ home and caring for their needs along the way. We missed seeing you at the church; but knew you were providing great support along the route. Thank you!! Thanks to Mary Nethercutt for taking the lead again for this important and vital ministry! You’re the Best Mary!

Our Children’s area had to be moved inside this year at the last moment due to weather. Thanks to each who popped popcorn, painted faces, blew up balloons, applied temporary tattoos, etc. The kids seemed to have a good time and I know the parents were most appreciative. Sara Hurston, Jan and crew did an excellent job in a challenging situation.

Our kitchen crew led by Rick Perkins and Jim Parsons did a fabulous job! We never ran out of gas or pancakes this year! We believe we served 4000 people over 8000 pancakes!! Thanks to each who cooked and served with joy!

Diana Mooney’s leadership in the Dining Room assisted by Robin McAdow was fantastic. Thanks to all the volunteers who greeted, served, restocked supplies, poured coffee, cleared tables, etc. Special thanks to Rinda Potter for helping staff our Nursery!

Michael Davis, Jeff Miller and crew provided great security all day long...and it was a long day this year! Our sanctuary was packed with hundreds of wet and cold people. Several of our adults and teens lovingly cared for folks by providing blankets, hats, gloves, towels and even dry clothes. You all were “lifesavers.” I really don’t know what would have happened to dozens of runners if we had not opened our doors on Sunday!

Last and certainly not least; I want to say how very proud I am of the rest of our First Church Staff who gave tirelessly of themselves these past many weeks and especially this last weekend. Sandy Ball coordinated our Marathon Ministry with great skill, spirit and effectiveness (I told her she needs to come back next year!). Kim Bingham provided our Communications, printing and placing signs, worship folders, posters, taking photos, etc. Steven Grantham and Tony Moran led in worship and Tony captured Marathon video along with Casey Heald. Kevin Collier and Peggy King oversaw set-up, facilities management and clean-up. Not sure our Sanctuary will ever be the same! God was honored and I am most pleased to serve as your Senior Pastor. By the way, I did finish my 5K for the fourth year in a row!

I love you all!

Yours in Christ,
Mark

PS –Remember our Prayer Vigil and Service today at 5:00 at The Survivor Tree. I’d sure appreciate if you could join us for prayer for our nation and our leaders today!
PSS – Mother’s Day is this Sunday! See you here as we honor our Moms. “Happy Birthday” to a very special Mom who reached a significant milestone this week. I love you Mom!