Church Newsletter
Dear Ward Members:
It’s been a rough week for us all, hasn’t it? As I have visited with many of you, I have realized something about the circle of grief. To me, this is a concentric circle that begins at the center of pain and extends outward starting with those closest to the situation. I discussed this with Tim and Geri Krehbiel at the hospital earlier this week. While they are certainly the ones who are suffering the most with the tragedy of Jessica’s accident, in our own way, all of us are suffering with them. I have seen it in your faces. I have experienced it first-hand along with the bishopric. In some ways I feel we are all vicariously suffering with Jessica as we fast and pray and weep for her and her family.
One thing that has warmed my heart through all this is the actions of service and love that I have seen by so many. I believe there are few, if any, who ask probing questions that may hurt feelings or that may be none of their business. Most have been so concerned and caring.
Lists are always dangerous, since one cannot name or see all that is done. But may I thank each of you for your thoughts and concern. Since most who have given may wish to remain anonymous, on behalf of the Krehbiels’, may I thank those who:
- Organized the blood drive in Jessica’s name
- Groomed the Krehbiel’s yard
- Set up a website where we may go to learn of Jessica’s situation without burdening the family with too many questions (www.prayforjessica.com)
- Brought in meals
- Written letters or cards of love and sympathy
- Spent hours and put on miles to be with the family at the hospital
- Set up a trust fund in Jessica’s name to help with expenses (Central Bank – Mapleton branch)
- Prayed and fasted and wept
With our personal and collective weaknesses, our ward does very well when it comes to sharing the love, as Brother Merrell puts it.
At this point in her recovery, it appears that Jessica and her family have a long road ahead. No one knows at this point how long or short that road will be. They have had some disheartening news this week, but we are all clinging to our faith and great hope that she will defy the odds and return to a degree of normalcy that she would be pleased with, as Geri put it the other day. Jessica has shown some signs of recovery this week.
Bless you all for all the good you do and for all the good that is in you. May we continue to rally around the Krehbiels and every neighbor as we laugh and cry through this wonderful mortal experience together. And may our faith continue in Jesus Christ and His incredible message of peace, even as we grieve.
Bishop Taylor