Second Thursday

One of the first things I became acquainted with when I became senior coordinator was the monthly get-together, Second Thursday. This group has been ongoing for years and is an opportunity for seniors to come together over a meal, devotion, book reviews, coffee, and an afternoon program of some kind. It takes the work of many hands to organize this event every month. After making some adaptations and with the continued input of 20-25 people to make this event happen, I have to wonder if it is worth the effort. Can we keep this program going, and I believe we must continue to try, and this is why.

In December, Second Thursday was a holiday celebration. Chef Leray prepared a special holiday meal which was planned by the meal planners. Volunteers stepped up to bake and donate the Christmas cookies for dessert. The tables were beautifully  decorated and festive for the occasion. Helpers were on hand to assist with setting the tables. A group of Rich- field High School students came by van to assist with serving and busing dishes, games were organized by more volunteers, devotions were given, and a musical extravaganza was on the agenda for the afternoon program.

This is what I saw:

• People jumped in at the last minute to help with the event and seemed to enjoy doing so.
 
• Seniors who claim that "they don't play games" played games and laughed with delight. 
• People smiled, laughed, visited, sang, ate, and enjoyed one another's company. 
• Everyone was involved. 

There was an extra surprise that afternoon. A special guest arrived just in time for lunch. It was the former senior ministry coordinator, Janet Boland. I shouted "Janet, your here!" Janet doesn't know me, but I was so excited to see her. I had heard so much about her from the Normandale seniors that I felt like I knew her. Everyone gathered around to welcome their dear friend back into the fold. For the rest of the day she took her rightful place at the table. Watching this exchange and having Janet back for the day just made everything ‘feel right.’ Things were as they should be. It made me realize that this is the result of all the planning, organizing, and effort that goes into this event every month. The bonds are strong and the connections are deep. It feels good and right with everyone adding a bit of themselves to the mix. What a blessing in these times and in this place to have this camaraderie and love for one another. What a gift it was to witness!

Susan Cell
Senior Ministry Coordinator

Second Thursday

Date: March 11
Coffee: 10:30 am
Book Club: 11:00 am. Led by Birgit Anderson- "The Shack" by William P. Young
Devotions: 12:15 pm (Carl Manfred)
Lunch: 12:30 pm - Cornbeef/cabbage
Program: 1:15 - David Manfred - A program on his mission work in Cambodia.

Second Thursday is an extended program held on the second Thursday of each month, September through May. All are invited, but the program is mainly aimed at seniors. People may come for the whole program or for any part of it. There is a suggested donation of $5.00 per person requested for the wonderful lunches that are served but no one will be turned away.

The day's program is as follows:

• 10:30 a.m. Coffee and Conversation
• 11:00 a.m. Choice of a Book club discussion group, games, cards, or conversation
• 12:15 p.m. Chapel Talk
• 12:30 p.m. Lunch
• 1:30 p.m. Special Programs

For more information, contact the church office at 952.929.1697