Dear Pat,

Remember when we were "mouskins" our mother used the expression, "I'll be glad to see the back of ...." when she was happy something unpleasant was ending? Well, I will be glad to see the back of this summer - way too hot and dry. When I chanced to scurry out, the grass prickled my paws, it was so dry. For that reason I spent many hours in our newly air-conditioned Fellowship Hall and sent thank yous to Annie Plaugher for her heavenly gift of coolness.

I guess you could say that this summer started with a splash. On her last Sunday, Pastor Julie flew out over the river on a rope swing and let go, making a memorable splash. (Now, there is a lady who knows how to make an exit!) This noteworthy event took place when we all gathered by the river at the Shrum's lovely spot. The place was beautiful, the day poignant. We miss Pastor Julie and the girls - they took pieces of our heart with them - we always think of them with love.

Fortunately, St. Paul's has many talented people who are helping to lead the services until an interim pastor can be found. Derek Ritenour, whose infectious smile always brightens one's day, has helped out in so many ways. Today, at the service, this old mouse learned that clerical robes have a practical use also. Derek told us of a church who would not let a pastor preach unless he was wearing both suspenders and belt, lest his pants fall down and distract the congregation. Derek was not wearing suspenders, but had on his robe to prevent this mishap.

Stephanie Litten-Heishman, Steve Wood, Phil and Dawn Stoneburner have enriched us with inspiring words from the pulpit. Isn't it great when people pitch in and help when it is needed!

The sermon for the small humans is always a favorite part of the service for me and my mouse friends. This summer we have had some wonderful children's sermons from Dawn Stoneburner, Susan Brill, Patty Dellinger, Hanna Lehnen, and Stephanie Litten-Heishman who introduced us to puppet friends, Josie and Sassafras.

Pat, I'm almost afraid to tell you about the wonderful musical moments we have had this summer for fear of missing some. (I have been out of town a couple of Sundays and probably have missed real treats.) Anne Holland's piano solo, the duet by Courtney Brill and Patty Dellinger, the marvelous hymn-fest led by the Stoneburners and Tim Grant, David Snarr's trumpet solo, the glorious voices of our guest artists - It has been grand. (Though one would never have guessed, Patty Dellinger sang on a moment's notice when the featured soloist didn't arrive as scheduled one Sunday. She's a real trouper and very talented, our Patty.)

I must close, Pat, by saying this - On the first Sunday in September, St. Paul's and Mt. Calvary will begin a new era. We will no longer be charges, but now station churches (churches that stand alone - not two churches together.) It has been a long and fruitful relationship. We wish Mt. Calvary love and success. As always, your loving brother.

As always, your loving brother, Paws, the church mouse (jcm)