In last month’s Reflections, I talked briefly about the report from the District Assessment Team.  The thing that stood out for me was the sentence, “Laguna Country helps people find meaning and purpose in the second half of life.”  There were other important things in the report, improving communication both internally and externally, and strengthening our stewardship. When I read that line it struck me that we, Laguna Country, have meaning and purpose in the second have of our lives, that God is not finished with us yet.

I want to share with you an email I received after we hosted the Tremble Clefs concert that shows how we are helping people to find meaning and purpose in the second half of life.

Dear Pastor Williams,

Thank you for providing the space for ‘Our Friends and Families Concert” Sunday.

I wanted to share a story of a miracle that happened in my life directly related to Parkinson Association of Orange County program at your church several years ago. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s (PD) on a Friday.  I was devastated – uninformed and afraid what the future had in store for me.  The tremor on my dominant side made me anxious.  I asked God for help.

Driving by the church on Moulton, I saw a sign for a conference about Parkinson’s.  I pulled into the parking lot and saw the Tremble Clefs perform for the first time.  I loved to sing, and these folks with Parkinson’s were a very good choir.  Karen Skipper was knowledgeable, full of enthusiasm and hope.  The many vendors were available to provide information and support.  I know God had given me an answer to prayer. Monday morning, I went to my first Tremble Clef practice.

Karen taught many exercises for breathing, swallowing and voice control.  Within two weeks I was reaching the high notes ... I noticed that my swallowing improved.

Most important was a spiritual community that formed supporting participation in life – we sing because we love to sing – and singing provides the exercise needed to live life fully, even with Parkinson’s …

I live in Laguna Woods, ironically on the other side of the parking lot … with the church in my line of sight!  Every time I drive by I give thanks for your church, which opened it’s doors to the community so people can learn about Parkinson’s.  There is a warmth in my heart for the love and service your congregation brings to our community.

Let us continue to find ways to help people find meaning and purpose in the second half of life.

See you in church,

Doug