Sunday at Vang and Hegre

This morning I led worship at Vang, with Pastor Gary Wees as guest preacher in the absence of Pastor Terje Hausken. It was the first time I had been at Vang for a service that included communion, so it was great that we had competent, hospitable lay leaders to guide us.

The highlight for me was the children's sermon. I used the Spark Story Bible, which is always a hit with younger kids. But the kids themselves are the best part, of course. I heard all about their birthdays. When I said we were talking about kings, I was reminded that Ariel's dad was a king. And after we read about Jesus on the cross, a child who was probably 4 years old told me that Jesus died to forgive our sins, and he came back on Easter. "I know the whole story!" she said. Too flippin' cute!

I've been lamenting lately about my lack of interaction with children. After teaching the three- and four-year-old Sunday school class last year at Resurrection, I really miss that shot of energy every week. It was refreshing for my spirit to spend even those few minutes with the kids yesterday. I'm on the lookout for other opportunities. They aren't easy to come by with my worship and adult education commitments on Sunday mornings, but I'll figure something out.

From Vang I headed to Hegre, thanking God that the ice we were supposed to get stayed north and west of us (sorry for those who got it!). It was lovely to share worship with Pastor Dick Hegal, who was on vacation the last time I was at Hegre. And I showed up on the right day...there was a potluck after worship, followed by Christmas decorating. I didn't get to stay to decorate, but the meal was amazing, as always!

And I finally got pictures! I adore the painted panel behind the altar, so here are increasingly close-up shots of the Hegre chancel, plus a view of the nave from the front.