Final update from a now retired Rev Linda LaGroix
Wow, my last 2 weeks at St. Alban’s and St. Hilda’s have flown by.
On June 14th, both church families gathered for our going-away – 39 in church and 45 at the potluck lunch, as several members of the community joined us for lunch as well to bid us farewell. A very generous financial gift was given to Wayne and me, along with several smaller but precious gifts to send us on our journey. It was bittersweet to offer a blessing to all who attended and to share heartfelt thanks for the love and support we have been blessed with here. This was truly a perfect placement for this new, fledgling priest!
The following week was my last service at St. Hilda’s in Spences Bridge, and we had a lovely turnout, tears and good food to wish each of us God’s blessings as we go forward into an uncertain future.
June 28 was my last service at St. Alban’s, and to top off my ministry time here, we had a baptism of a little fellow whose parents I had married 3 summers ago. To make the day special, two other families where I had also presided at their weddings over the past 2 years were present to share this special day.
And to top it off even more, if possible, my daughter Tanya, her partner Beckie and Beckie’s niece Isola showed up from Vancouver to celebrate with us too! After a beautiful baptism service with lots of water splashing and sharing of Holy Communion, we had a final luncheon together. I was also blessed to perform a reserved sacrament service at Jackson House, our extended care facility, that afternoon. The day was closed with a great supper at Hungry Herbies in Cache Creek before the family headed back to Vancouver. The only thing missing was Wayne, who was out at our cabin.
For all the blessings and support that I have received from all of our Territory of the People family, I offer my heartfelt thanks and pray for continued strength for all as we continue to seek to follow Jesus in our actions, our words and especially in our love.
Rev. Linda