Dear Cokesbury family,
As I contemplate Pastor Sheila’s last weeks with us, I am besieged with memories from her first day, and they continue onward in my heart and mind. I’m sure you have also thought back over the last three years as well and have picked out special dates that meant a lot to you individually as well as church-wide special events.

At our farewell picnic on May 1 at Asbury Place after the 11:00 Traditional Service, I want those precious memories and the love we share for Pastor Sheila to shine through. She specifically asked for a picnic, so the first thing on our list is to pray for a beautiful sun-shiny day! I have begun asking for help from different members for decorating and setting up food lists. The church will purchase fried chicken and spiral-cut hams. I know all of you will be happy to bring side dishes and desserts, and I know what great cooks we have in the congregation! I would expect that we can safely say there will be at least 150 in attendance, so plan accordingly on how much you want to share.

Mina will gladly accept your contributions toward meaningful and lasting gifts to Sheila and the expenses for the picnic. Please attach a note stating it’s for “Sheila’s picnic” on your gifts. Genevieve will accept your phone calls or emails (850-476-5818; genevieve@cokesburychurch.com) as to what you plan to bring for the picnic, either salads (with dressings), vegetables, casseroles, or desserts. Some of you may want to bring bread and/or drinks. We will need some help setting up on Sunday morning and decorating the outside tables and a few helpers in the kitchen, and then help clean up when the event is over. Please call or email me (850-748-9922; jlkn.house@gmail.com) if you can volunteer to help with the setup/cleanup/kitchen.

Each of us is special to Pastor Sheila, and I know she wants to see each of us at church, in committee meetings, in Sunday School Classes but most importantly: At the picnic! Mark your calendars and plan to attend.

Thank you for being such wonderful, beautiful, special people of God and Cokesbury!

Blessings,

Jane Nelson
SPR Chair