Memorial Service details

Thanks for the support pouring in at us from all directions. We are most grateful! And incredibly tired!! It is hard to believe that it has not even been a day since Nora died. It feels like an eternity since I cradled her in my arms this morning and my arms ache to hold her. The grief comes in big waves. Coming home felt so wrong and so right all at the same time. Sharing the news with Kali was more heart wrenching that I could have imagined. Jason and I keep having many moments of expecting her to be here and then it hits us that she is not hear. Each room in our home is peppered with reminders of her presence.

This update is going to be much more regarding the upcoming memorial service and I’m sorry for using this venue to share this but it feels important to share the news in the only outlet we know of that will get to all those who have been following Nora’s journey in life and death. Here’s the scoop.

We will be holding a service to celebrate Nora’s life this Saturday, June 7 at 3:30pm in Martin Chapel of the Seminary Building at Eastern Mennonite University. A music prelude will begin around 3pm. If any of you will be coming in from out of town and need lodging, please let us know as we have had a number of generous offers from friends to provide lodging as needed.

Following the service, we welcome you to join us for refreshments. And many of you have asked if there are things you can get for us or do. Here’s an idea. We are going to be a bit risky and try a “mini-potluck” style for refreshments. You are welcome to bring along some finger foods to share if you would like (ideas may include: veggie try, fruit, cheese and crackers, nuts, mini-sandwiches, etc…) Plates, napkins and cold drinks will be provided.

Additionally we request that in lieu of flowers you consider making a contribution to Hope International Development Agency which has been working in Myanmar with the survivors of the cyclone there. The Center for Justice & Peacebuilding where Janelle works has a number of alumni of their programs working in Myanmar and as we journeyed with Nora the stories of the suffering in Myanmar brought sadness and perspective. Donations can be given online at http://www.hope-international.com/ and you can read more about their work in Myanmar as well – see the box on the far right top.

I think that is all for now or at least all I can think of. I knew that I was tired when I started falling asleep when leaving a voicemail earlier this evening. Janelle