Russ told me that he would be by early Sunday morning to take me to church with him so that I may offer a prayer of thanksgiving to The Lord for blessing me with Caleb's life. His words caused me to collapse in repentance for my many sins.
On Sunday morning, August 28, 2004, I accompanied my friend Russ to Saint James Episcopal Church and at the precise moment that my foot crossed the threshold of the sanctuary, I was slain in the spirit by the blessed grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I wept throughout the entire service.
It began with the church choir singing a beautiful hymn, proceeding up the middle aisle, led by a youth acolyte holding high the gold cross of Christ, followed by the deacon holding high a large gilded King James Bible. As the procession passed the congregation bowed at the passing of the Word as they joined in the singing.
The service began with a layman reading from Isaiah. He ended the reading saying, "Hear what the Lord is saying to God's people." Then the congregation refrained saying, "Thanks be to God." We sat down and chanted a beautiful Psalm which was followed by a lay reading from the New Testament saying, "Hear what the Lord is saying to God's people," The congregation replied, "Thanks be to God."
Amazing Grace
The minister gave a wonderful sermon and then moved to the alter and began the Holy Eucharist. I joined the rest of the congregation, taking my sins to the alter and accepting the sacrament of Christ's holy body and blood. His amazing grace saved a wretch like me.I have since joined All Souls Cathedral and have been confirmed. I volunteer as a greeter and as an usher. I attend a Christian adult study early every Sunday morning and often volunteer Sunday afternoons at The Church of the Advocate for the homeless. I read my Bible every day and pray for the Lord's guidance in my work and my life's journey. And the best part, I now have joy in my heart.
I tell stories about my Caleb at every opportunity as a witness to the wonder of God's creation, how God sent His love to me through the companionship of a little fat dachshund. I no longer weep over the passing of Caleb because I know that his spirit is with The Lord and someday so also will be mine.
May the peace of the Lord be with you and in all you do.
