 Finding a church home for a newly-wed couple is a big decision. When Don and I returned to Birmingham from Chicago, in 1957, we knew we wanted to attend church together.
I grew up as a Presbyterian, and Don was a cradle Episcopalian. We began visiting different churches. They were all welcoming and nice to visit; however, we knew we were not yet ready to make a commitment.
One day, my mother-in-law called and said “You all should visit that new church in Crestline. All the cute young couples are going there.” What did we have to lose? Since we didn’t know what nursery facilities were available, Don babysat at home, and I went alone. I knew this church would be convenient since we had just bought our first house in Crestline and had moved in with our 3.5 children. The sanctuary had not yet been built, so services were held in the parish hall (now Graham Hall). The church was named for Saint Luke, the physician.
Many of the members seemed around our age, and for the most part were pretty cute! Lee Graham was the Rector. I remember his sermon as if it were yesterday. It was about infant Baptism. I felt that he was speaking directly to me. I had never in my life had a sermon mean so much to me! The next Sunday, Don and I attended together, and the rest is history.
My friends have heard me say,”I don’t believe in coincidences” Could it have been just a lucky coincidence that I would visit Saint Luke’s on that particular Sunday? I don’t think so! Don and I have been at Saint Luke’s in times of great conflict and in times of spectacular happiness and growth. We know God is in control.
We never considered attending any church other than Saint Luke’s. This is our church home and our church family. We are grateful for the blessings we have received through our many years here. Our children have grown up at Saint Luke’s, and now we see our grandchildren serving as Acolytes. Four of our children have married at Saint Luke’s. Through the years, we heard a lot of “Momma, we want to get married, and we want to be married at Saint Luke’s. Will you help us?” We are now three generations worshiping at this beloved parish.
In the movie Fried Green Tomatoes there is a scene that I love. Inge is comforting Buddy, who has had his arm cut off by a train. She says,”Buddy, it’s alright to let people help you. Do you know there are angels all over out there, walking around masquerading as people?”
I’m convinced Saint Luke’s is filled with angels masquerading as people. Look around! Can’t you see them!!
Thanks be to God!
--Anne Turnbull
Anne and Don have been married for fifty-seven years. They have five children and nine grandchildren. Their daughter Anne Garrett and her husband Tom, along with their four children: Bryan, Grace, Taylor, and Mary B. are also members of Saint Luke’s.
|
