God, I give thanks for all APLC members
and especially this year offer my thanks for:

the love, time, talent, and treasure Jere and Birgitta continue to give to the Afghan family APLC sponsored nearly two years ago.

"hidden" services so abundantly given by many of our members. I give thanks for the designing, building and installing of the pocketbook shelf in the ladies room. Once again, without hoopla, Bob has used the artistic skills you have given him to beautify our church.

all the families of the leaders of the church. Each family member is also serving APLC as they give the time they would be spending together with their spouse or parent.

new members who have joined our church this year. Their presence has enhanced our community. Observing the joy expressed by Benjamin on his way to hear the Children's Sermon blesses us all.

kids - every single one of them, but especially Emily who greets me with a gentle smile and says, "Good morning."

singers of our church who enhance my worship at all times - during regular services, as part of special joyful observances, and especially at times of congregational sadness. I am blessed to be a member of a Lutheran "singing church." I am also thankful for the small, loyal group of singers who join me as a member of the choir. I especially give thanks for the gift of musicianship given by Ullie, our longest-serving member.

giggles during the times our congregation meets for social occasions. The giggles accompanied by Margie's remark -- "the whole nine yards" -- are especially treasured.

issued, unsolicited offers of help from fellow members when they see that I need it and the giving of that help when I accept. Jack and Dan's transportation service, cheerfully given, has helped so much this year.

victory we share when we accomplish a "leap of faith" activity. Continue to send us leaders who will push us toward outreach activities such as the vehicle for Namibia.

invitations to grow in faith. We are continually bombarded with a multitude of ways to grow. Thank you for all the inspirations given to the "planners" of these events.

normal activities. It is so easy each Sunday to just expect the good preaching of Dan, continuing musical endeavors of Linda, volunteering of greeters, lectors deacons and ushers, the service of altar guild members, and the counting of offerings. Raise my consciousness toward recognition of how blessed it is when things are normal.

glorious stained glass in our sanctuary. On a gray day, it provides a hint of color to lift my spirits. When the sunshine comes through it, I am reminded to thank you for the sight you give me to be able to see beautiful things. Continue to inspire Carlotta in her vision and long-term commitment of enhancing the beauty of our place of worship. Amen