Once we began God's hand seemed to be in everything we attempted. Of course we prayed for His guidance constantly. One of our blessings was the five-dollar fee we paid for the use of a mobile unit in which to hold our Sunday services. Yes, we had to tote hymnals, a podium, a vacuum cleaner, but we were holding a Sunday service and we were grateful.

Our new pastor took it all in stride and he had building experience besides.

Members of our group were willing to wear many hats: they were officers, Sunday School teachers, they hauled, opened their homes for all activities. One of us had an autoharp, which was our organ substitute. And we thanked the Lord.

When we thought we could build a church the cost of land was prohibitive. The parcel we are now on was priced too high, but many months later the owner contacted us and was now willing to sell it at the price we could pay!

God sent us an architect who sensed our spirit and gave us plans in which we felt so at home.

Then came the actual building, watching it grow slowly, agonizing over delays. The contractor had bid an amount we could pay, even including two items we had only dreamed about.

All the time we were praying for God's guidance. We were growing closer and closer as a family. As an only child without any extended family that was something I cherished and still do. All your inquiries about my well-being, your smiles and hugs warm me and I thank God for you all over and over again. Thanksgiving of that year of building approached and the first service was scheduled for Thanksgiving eve. Oh, what a thrill to know we had a house for the Lord even if the carpeting was still in huge rolls, unlaid.

The warmth of that beginning is still evident in this present day. Every gathering, whether Sunday services, study groups or outreach activities, is like family getting together, and I am filled with thanksgiving.