Doug, my class at GR Central Christian is holding a 50th reunion this year, too. To me, a class reunion feels like a second chance--an opportunity to reconnect with classmates as a better (by the grace of God) version of myself, and to appreciate them in a way I couldn't back then, when I was an arrogant, self-absorbed teen. I remember a classmate at our 40th reunion surveying the room and remarking, "I just wish I could apologize to all these people." I felt the same way!
Thanks for being a reader, Susan, and thanks for the comment, which I like. I'm guessing you'll find lots of forgiveness. At least that's what I'm hoping to find.
Yes, in my Eastern Orthodox church, tomorrow is Forgiveness Sunday. As part of the liturgy, we ask the forgiveness of each and every person present. It is a time of tears and healing. Class reunions can be that too!
Yes, the liturgy is something I treasure, as well as the ancient framework for developing Christian disciplines, and the acquaintance I am making with centuries of Christian saints. My husband converted from Reformed to Orthodox first, and I followed 15 (!) years later. I value many things from my Reformed heritage, but am grateful for this new season of growth.
On another topic, I think you pastored my cousin Cheyne Davidson's church in Zurich. Is that correct?
Yes, Cheyne was (and still is?) the resident baritone for the Zürich Opera, and for 20 years or so Cheyne was the unpaid music director for the International Protestant Church (which is just a few steps away from the opera house). On Sundays Cheyne brought over soloists and musicians who were the best in the world, and our annual Messiah was one of the best attended Christmas events in Zürich. His wife Tiziana was (and is!) wonderful too.
Yes, Cheyne is still with Zurich Opera, and yes, Tiziana is still wonderful! Your church was blessed to have Cheyne as music director! We love them all, and "WhatsApped" with Cheyne, Tiziana and Cheyne's 99-year-old mother (my aunt) a few weeks ago. Their daughter Nicole has started her own film company, so far featuring online dance performances (Nicole's boyfriend is a professional dancer in Estonia). We'll be attending (online, of course) one of Nicole's productions at the end of March.
I wish we had picked better dates for my journey back to the homeland. My family and I will be in Texas, White lake, GR, and Chicago to get my oldest daughter back in Columbia College off island from the 18th to the 5th of Sept. ...but I will be there in spirit. Have a great time
I am looking forward to seeing you, to talk about anything but sports or politics.
Agreed!
Doug, my class at GR Central Christian is holding a 50th reunion this year, too. To me, a class reunion feels like a second chance--an opportunity to reconnect with classmates as a better (by the grace of God) version of myself, and to appreciate them in a way I couldn't back then, when I was an arrogant, self-absorbed teen. I remember a classmate at our 40th reunion surveying the room and remarking, "I just wish I could apologize to all these people." I felt the same way!
Thanks for being a reader, Susan, and thanks for the comment, which I like. I'm guessing you'll find lots of forgiveness. At least that's what I'm hoping to find.
Yes, in my Eastern Orthodox church, tomorrow is Forgiveness Sunday. As part of the liturgy, we ask the forgiveness of each and every person present. It is a time of tears and healing. Class reunions can be that too!
You found your way to the Orthodox church! My mother thinks I strayed pretty far by becoming Presbyterian. Envy you your rich, rich liturgy.
Yes, the liturgy is something I treasure, as well as the ancient framework for developing Christian disciplines, and the acquaintance I am making with centuries of Christian saints. My husband converted from Reformed to Orthodox first, and I followed 15 (!) years later. I value many things from my Reformed heritage, but am grateful for this new season of growth.
On another topic, I think you pastored my cousin Cheyne Davidson's church in Zurich. Is that correct?
Yes, Cheyne was (and still is?) the resident baritone for the Zürich Opera, and for 20 years or so Cheyne was the unpaid music director for the International Protestant Church (which is just a few steps away from the opera house). On Sundays Cheyne brought over soloists and musicians who were the best in the world, and our annual Messiah was one of the best attended Christmas events in Zürich. His wife Tiziana was (and is!) wonderful too.
Yes, Cheyne is still with Zurich Opera, and yes, Tiziana is still wonderful! Your church was blessed to have Cheyne as music director! We love them all, and "WhatsApped" with Cheyne, Tiziana and Cheyne's 99-year-old mother (my aunt) a few weeks ago. Their daughter Nicole has started her own film company, so far featuring online dance performances (Nicole's boyfriend is a professional dancer in Estonia). We'll be attending (online, of course) one of Nicole's productions at the end of March.
I wish we had picked better dates for my journey back to the homeland. My family and I will be in Texas, White lake, GR, and Chicago to get my oldest daughter back in Columbia College off island from the 18th to the 5th of Sept. ...but I will be there in spirit. Have a great time
So sorry we won't be able to re-connect!
RossW
Who cares about the win-loss it’s what made going to ECH fun
Maybe with time I'll get over the trauma of it.
This is the "fierce conservative"! I will be happy to discuss the glorious 3-5 season and avoid politics. Looking forward to seeing you.
Hey Doug, am looking forward to seeing you too. Also, you're a good sport!