Mifflinburg

If I have a congregation away from home, it would be Morning Star Mennonite at Mifflinburg, PA. Those people have been our people since way back in 1988 when we turned our two-door Granada into Reuben and Lydia Shirk’s driveway, and then got into their green station wagon to begin a lifetime in NYC. (We still miss our late brother Reuben’s kind counsel and encouragement.)

Enter Israel, my young unhappy boss, and his wife Sarah, his sisters Laura, Linda, and Sarah, his brothers Joni, Louie, and Davy and their spouses. Watching their transformation from darkness to light brought more joy than words can express. The ripples of faith spread to their children, and to their employees. Heaven witnessed as these were baptized into the Church, and the membership of the congregation at Mifflinburg increased. You may have met some of these brothers and sisters at board meetings, conference, in your homes, and congregations.

Enter Benn and Sundaymar with Bee. Our brother and sister who were baptized in NYC worked last Sunday evening, so Bee came to John and Misti Wengerd’s wedding reception with us. My namesake sat with me. We both love NYC, the beach, and bubble tea. But Bee has a desk in the school at Mifflinburg. Her and Amber, her teacher, took me to see it. Bee’s parents, Benn and Sundaymar, just closed on a house near the Mifflinburg church.

Jared and Mel Isaac’s daughter Misti married Israel and Sarah’s son John. Jared was one of our boys when we were houseparents. I was never more content than around Israel and Sarah’s table yesterday with Laurence, Israels, Jareds, and their families. What great things the Lord has done and continues to do! Berniece

P.s. Israel’s youngest son Luke makes delicious lavender lattes!