Dear Grace Church

Dear Grace Church,

Three years ago I came to you in a time when the world was shut down. I came to pray. You opened your doors to the sanctuary and I sat beneath the feet of Jesus and cried into the silence. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

When Summer came and the music filled the neighborhood, I felt my heart stir. I sat on the edge, unsure and ready to run, and you let me be. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

As I entered your doors I felt so much panic. I couldn’t breathe and I didn’t feel real. I wanted to be close to God, but I was so scared. You showed me Jesus’ Table and you welcomed me. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

When it was time for blessings and I couldn’t see past my shame, and I couldn’t stand up, you blessed me anyways. You called me beloved. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

As I sat in the back with my love, a woman, I looked around constantly to make sure we were safe. Guarded and cautious, I slowly began to see your smiles were not judgement and fake, but real and inviting. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

Slowly I was waking up. Healing and wanting to be a part of things. It’s scary to be seen, but you made space for me. I was safe, and I was accepted. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

Last year, when I grew weak from caring for a dying father, you gave me strength. You were with me in the hospital rooms and in my heart. You let me grieve and break and cry and you held me in love. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

As I follow God’s call to go to school to be a chaplain, you stand behind me. You believe in me and support me. You don’t try to change me or make me a certain way. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

Recently my family and friends filled your sanctuary. Love and light and joy rang true as I married my soul mate. While my life used to be disconnection and pain, it is now connection and belonging. Thank you.

Dear Grace Church,

You have given me the love and safety to heal, and I am forever grateful. I am free to share my joy and my pain and you hold space for both. May we continue to grow and struggle together.

Amen.