June 24th, 2007 - Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

In memory of Bethany Hartung.

Mary suggested that sentence could be the whole of the blog entry for this service because recording the myriad of impressions and moments related to what happened at this service overwhelmed me.

In essence, the sentence does say it all. What follows here will simply underscore and highlight those words.

Pastor Dayle announced at the service that Bethany died this morning at 3:30 AM surrounded by her family.

It added perspectives to our worship that would not have been there otherwise. Deep sadness broke through Pastor Dayle’s announcement and for Joe, as he delivered the Prayers of the People. Simultaneously worship went on with moments of joy and inspiration that moved beyond the news. Life and events moved on as they will. The Lutherwood staff who will lead Day Camp had an interactive song to perform with the kids for the Children’s Time.

There were also moments of connection. One of the Lutherwood staff also attends Gustavus Adolphus where Bethany received her honorary degree. "You wouldn't know the college" the student said. Pastor Dayle corrected that impression.

There were memories on memories of Bethany, her family and of Creator support. Moments of joy, times where there was "rage, rage against the dying of the light" and times of acceptance of what was to be. This was not unanticipated and yet preparing for what was to come remained hard and finally receiving the news was truly heartbreaking.

There will be a memorial service Saturday. Preparations are being made. Bethany helped plan the service. There will be a choir practice rehearsal Thursday.

Creator's thoughts and prayers are with Rick, Toni, Merrily, Kirk and Stephanie and all who are mourning and feel the grief of losing Bethany from our lives.