I have received emails saying please pray before reading and I hope you are not alone when you read this. I have prayed but physically have been alone, though I know God has been right by my side.
Many tears have poured from my eyes and my mind has been a flood of memories over the past few days. My heart longs to be in Nashville, Tennessee at Christ Church saying good-bye to two friends. Saying good-bye with family - my church/youth staff family. Being able to share memories together. I still feel like I am going to wake up and this will all be a dream.
The memories have brought the tears to my eyes, but it has been with a joyful and smiling heart. So many memories, so much growth, so much love................the memories have reminded me of wonderful time in my journey and all the amazing hearts that were on it with me. So many people who mean a lot to me, who hold a place in my heart, who I love and miss dearly.
I have been reminded of the last two times I was back in Nashville. The last time was for Eric's wedding almost 3 years ago. And the time before that was for my dear friend, Laura's wedding. Both times which Eric and Emmy were a part of. And both times my church/youth staff family was together. We should have a reunion......I don't know if I can wait for the one when we all get to Heaven.
I wish I had pictures or tapes from Summer Jubilee (which Thom you still owe me) or just had a way to talk with my old family, a little hard being half way around the world.
I am finding peace and comfort in this moment of mourning. I know two souls are free and with their Father in Heaven, ready to help Him in battle for souls here on earth. Just pray for those they left behind. Eric's wife, Amanda. Emmy's parents, Becky and Tommy and her brother, Ben. Also for their other family members. Many lives were touched by the these two faithful followers of Christ. They were loved and will be missed.
2 comments:
Kimie,
A bunch of the old youth leaders, your family, got together at Mrs. Debbie's house, and I went with Chelsea. Know that you have been thought about and talked about for the past several days. We love and miss you and we searched for a long time to try and find some way to tell you that wasn't an email.
Chara brought her scrapbooks and we looked through them. Thom brought Thom:TV from 97 and 98 and you were present in all of this. We love you so much and we are especially praying for you since you are not here with us. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you.
Eric's funeral was almost three hours long! We honored him with many memories, both hysterical and sweet. Amanda was so strong, that she spoke in front of the thousands who had gathered to mourn and encouraged everyone with a letter Eric had written. The choir sang, there was a photo slideshow, and countless people committed or recommitted their lives to the Lord. I have no doubt that Eric was proud.
Emmy's funeral was beautiful. We wiorshipped intensely for quite some time, because that was Emmy's favorite thing to do. Many people honored her memory and the choir sang as well. Pastor Dan Scott offered words of encouragement and passion to close out the day.
I thought you would want to know how everything was going. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we all want to see you again.
I Love You,
Brandon Palma
Just wanted to let you know you should be able to view their funeral services on CC's website: www.christchurchnashville.org
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