Our Journey

You have probably heard me rave quite a bit about our home church, Belmont United Methodist Church. But I want to tell you another reason why this community continues to be vital to our family. As each child enters Kindergarten they are matched with a Prayer Friend. Over the years the way the Friends are chosen has been different but both of our children have had the privilege of choosing their Prayer Friend.

Six years ago Claire Marin chose our Music Minister, Gayle Sullivan. I’m embarrassed to say that I can’t remember her reasons. She and Gayle had spent time together by virtue of my position on staff and through participation in pre-school choir but they did not have an existing relationship of note. But when asked to choose a Friend from all of Belmont UMC, Claire Marin asked Gayle. I think she perceived, even at that young age, Gayle’s kindness, deep joy, easy laugh and love of life. And they have developed a beautiful friendship over the years. Gayle faithfully makes time for Claire, keeps her artwork in her office, follows our blog, listens deeply to Claire’s stories and prays for her.

And Claire has held tightly to the teddy bear that was given to her during worship as a reminder of their special relationship. She loves to hear from Gayle, remembers her, looks up to her, looks forward to each and every get together, and prays for her.

It’s such a gift for us as parents to know that Gayle is another adult in Claire Marin’s life who loves her, supports her, and delights in her! And it is no small feat to remain in such regular contact with anyone over five years, but especially for a busy woman like Gayle, a busy girl like Claire, and now, when one Friend lives on another continent. But they have done it and it’s beautiful to witness!

And now Carter has chosen his Prayer Friend, Allison Henry. While Claire and Gayle have become fast friends over time, Carter and Allison are already like family. Ned and Allison’s hospitality and love of our children is so deep that the kids consider Rainbow Place as much home as the Gray House. As so much in our life is in transition, I think Carter has chosen wisely. Even at four years old he know that Allison’s love for him will never change no matter where he lives or how often he gets to rummage through her pantry.

On Sunday, the church will pray with us and for us as we return to Malawi. And Gayle and Allison will stand with us. More than special people to our children they remind us and demonstrate the amazing love of our church family and the vital part they play in calling, challenging and sustaining us as disciples. Thank you, Belmont! And thank you thank you thank you to Gayle and Allison!