Lake Palestine U.M.C.
by Barbara Cade

It could be said that Sunday was Shawn Decker Day at church. Shawn, the son of Milton and Jan Decker, came into a church which was totally decorated in red, white and blue. Almost everyone in the congregation was wearing some red, white and blue too, and the choir's special was "America." Shawn had requested that we sing his favorite hymn, "Amazing Grace," so that was done also.

Rev. Prather then had prayer for Shawn concerning the momentous journey he is about to undertake as he goes to Iraq. Of course, we all prayed that God would be with him every step of the way and bring him back home safely.

The award for best dressed for the morning had to go to Rich Franko as he was the only one who was still able to fit into his old uniform. There were a lot of uniforms in the building though. They were just hanging on the walls as decorations.

The brisket dinner was also especially good. The ladies of the church outdid themselves with salads and desserts, and the whole community will probably remember this day for a long time to come.

We were very happy to see Argyll Hicks back in church. He is still in rehab, but Diana brought him Sunday for the special occasion.

Our prayers are also with Donna Franko as she is recovering from surgery she had last week.

We are proud to welcome back into our midst, Ms. Elizabeth Rowen. We have missed seeing her.

It was also great to see Thetis Jackson back in church. She's walking better than ever and even able to wear real shoes now.

Herb Botts reported that he has mowed a path for walking on the church property. He forgot to mention it though until last Sunday, and all the rains may have made another mowing necessary. But anyway, ifyou can see the path, go ahead and walk on it.

We also want to say Happy Birthday to Herb who celebrated his birthday last Sunday.

On Sunday, May 20th, there will be a special breakfast for the graduates of the church. Be sure and put that on your calendars.

Also, this Saturday, the 12th and the day before Mother's Day, is the Methodist Men's garage sale. It will begin, at least for the workers, at 6 a.m. Bob Hitt is in charge, and he says it's a perfect activity for this weekend. Just bring your mother to it and have her pick out her gift.