Pastor's Message

March 4, 2010

Dear Friends,

As promised, I am writing to update you on the progress of my treatment and how I am doing. But before beginning that, I want to thank you for your prayers, concern, compassion, and support. They have actively upheld, up-lifted, and encouraged me. You have truly blessed me.

This March I have my last two chemo treatments (March 9 and March 29) - which is the good news. Because we're at the end, however, the toxicity in my body is at its highest levels - that's the bad news. So these are the weeks when I am most tired, have the least stamina, and am most vulnerable to infection.

All of the above means that, as my doctor says, "You have to cut back and take care of yourself." At the deacons meeting on Monday night, we talked about how to do that and made some plans. My two primary goals are to lead worship for Confirmation on March 21 and for the 10:00 am service on Easter Sunday. I will not open the prayer time for the Good Friday Vigil nor lead the Sunrise Service on Easter morning. I hope to be present for Palm Sunday and Maundy Thursday. However, we are making plans so that worship will continue even if I cannot participate.

On March 14 when the confirmands are preaching, lay people will lead the rest of the service. Because it is only 5 days after a chemo treatment, I have to recognize that I may not be well enough to be present. It's an event I really don't want to miss. By making this decision, I have the choice of joining the congregation - which I hope I will be able to do.

During this time I am not planning to attend meetings but I am always available by phone and will continue to be in regular communication.

At some point after Easter and before I start radiation (which is 5 days a week for 6 weeks) Jim and I are planning to go away for a few days. Since the timing hinges on my healing (which we can't predict) as well as the requirements of radiation, we don't know exactly when this will be.

I thank all of you for your support. You are a very special congregation.

God's peace and joy to you all,

Mary Lou

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