An invitation: finding family

I remember getting an Eastminster pamphlet in my mailbox when I lived on Sunset Drive in the east end of Belleville. I had been a widow for a couple of years by then and I felt an overwhelming sense of something missing from my life. The church was not far from my home, and although I had been a Presbyterian all my life, I decided to attend an Eastminster service.

I remember being greeted by friendly faces and then taking a seat at the back of the sanctuary so I could make a quick exit if necessary. It was not long before I could feel an energy that I hadn’t felt in a very long time. When I looked in the bulletin, there was a personal note from a woman whose husband had been ill. She was thanking members of Eastminster for their kindness over the very stressful time in her life and suddenly, I felt tears streaming down my face. 

On my second visit, I met a friend from another church. She was also searching for something. After several visits, I approached George, the music director, and asked to join the choir, which was very unlike me. George agreed and I have been a part of the choir ever since. 

Looking back on my years at Eastminster, I realize that what I felt (and still do) was the loving kindness of a family and an energy that came with a deep sense of making a difference in people’s lives. The number of activities (from dances to chili dinners) made my head spin and everywhere I looked, there was an energy and a determination to have an impact on the people around us.

It wasn’t easy to walk through the door the first Sunday, but I’m so glad I took the risk. When I did, I discovered the kindness, commitment, and energy that make Eastminster a very special place to worship. 

Carol-Lynn