At the Sunday morning service, on February 5, Cheryl Davis made some moving remarks about the founding of Lakeside Presbyterian Church. Here is what she said:
As today is the closest Sunday to February 2, it is only fitting that today we remember the founding of Lakeside Presbyterian Church just eight short years ago. I say “short” because of the number of miracles that God has performed in these few years. In early February, 2009, the Lord called Pat and Ralph Courtney and Ron and Judy Stard and Norm and Jane Pifer and a few friends to gather on the Courtney’s patio for Sunday worship. Through their faith, vision and openness to God’s guidance, Ray and Angie DeLange, missionaries from Rey de Reyes Church in Guadalajara, were sent to us. Then God opened the Founders’ hearts to the Mexican community and the Lord brought us Victoria and Arturo Smith and the Guillermo Banuet.
The Founders took us to that small space in a storefront on the Carretera and as more people were brought to the Lord, He brought Ross and Carolyn to lead us. But we outgrew that space because the Lord brought us more like-minded Christians. We had Christmas programs and Independence Day Celebrations with standing room only and we even had to rent a golf shooting range for Easter sunrise services!
So, here we stand this morning, just a few “short” years later in a beautiful place where we can accomplish even more in our community with God’s help.
The Founders started with a clear purpose that they were led and empowered by the Holy Spirit to glorify God and to share his love with others. They have handed on that responsibility to each of us.
Today is my privilege to announce that the space we currently call fellowship hall will now be known as Founders Hall. It is dedicated to: Pat and Ralph Courtney, Dona Dean, Karen and Jerry McCracken, Lorna and Tom Morris, Jane and Norm Pifer, Ann and Jim Scott, and Judy and Ron Stard.
The large paintings of Christ Knocking at the Door, Christ the Good Shepherd and Christ Praying at Gethsemane were painted by local Mexican artist, Isidro Xilonzochitl of Jocotepec. These paintings were commissioned by Petee and Dick Gerlach, early supporters of the fledgling congregation. The smaller painting of the Risen Christ was commissioned by Karen McCracken in memory of her husband Jerry.
Now, when you pass that room or share a meal or meet with others of our Lakeside family, think about the Holy Spirit who brought you here. And when you say your prayers tonight and count your blessings, add those thirteen true Christians to your list. Ask God to bless them. Ask Him to open our hearts and minds to His will as He did to their hearts eight “short” years ago. With His guidance, anything can be accomplished. Amen