It has been a long and tiring day, but a good day, too. There were two funerals in our ward so I spent the entire day at the stake center. The ladies in our ward are amazing! Even those with especially limited resources did what they could to contribute food and service for the two families. There ended up being an abundance of food and both families were quite grateful for the kindness extended to them.
I didn't know Jolene Case, the first funeral today. I know her sister, Claudene, and her brother, Neal and it was especially good to be able to do something for the Case family, to make the solemn occassion less of a hardship for them. Claudene and Neal are both active members of the church. Jolene and her family were not active and the children really appreciated that we extended support and kindness to them during this time.
The second funeral was for Andy Brown, a former bishop in our ward (3rd, pre-Lyman days). For a time, I had been visiting teacher for his wife, Barbara. It was especially fulfilling to be able to provide service for their family. They've been gone from SJ for many, many years. It was good to see Barbara and have some small hand in making the day easier for her.
While at the stake center, I ran into Marc LeFevre who has returned from his mission a couple weeks ago. It was the first time I've seen him and it was good to visit with him for a few minutes. There were also two baptisms at the church yesterday. Brennon Overson was baptised. It was good to visit with Dana for a few minutes and it was especially good to see so many young people travel back home to SJ for the occassion. There were a lot of people present to support him. I know his brother Bradley is delighted with the news even though he wasn't able to attend due to being on his mission.
It was a good day. Long but good.
