Monday, March 7, 2022
Greetings, dear Ken,
It is with suddenness that we receive the news of Gwen's passing. Although this came with some heads-up last Fall at the 50 year CMBC Reunion, when Gwen was not well, still the reality of her passing strikes hard. May God grant strength when life is difficult, peace in midst of turmoil, and grace when life seems unfair. Ach! words seems inadequate.
Some fond memories: Yes, I remember, as a shy 1st yr student at CMBC, asking Gwen, this 2nd yr student, whether she would play piano for my Festival competition. And she graciously, in a friendly manner, said yes. what a relief, but what a gift for 3 years. Several yrs later, I recall being so pleased that you joined us at AMC, and the precious times together at the Altona Mennonite Church, being together in a K-group. AND THEN -you and Gwen offering us $500.00 in 1979, which enabled both Pat and I to be part of George Wiebe's choir to visit churches in Paraguay & Brazil. I could hardly believe it then, and am still impressed by your generosity. That was a huge part of Pat and I deciding to go, resulting in almost 10 years in Paraguay. I shared with someone just recently the experience of sharing our commissioning service at AMC with you & Gwen, and also Eric & Laura going to Kenya.
Ken, May God go with you, embrace you, walk with you on a new path. I could talk on, but probably wouldn't be saying anything more. Except, I would dearly love to have an extended "coffee" with you. Who knows, maybe sometime!!?!
Hi Ken, I am joining Ben's post. I remember bits of wisdom Gwen shared with me that have stayed with me and cheered and strengthened me many times. When I was a new mother she said: The more relaxed you are, the better a parent you will be. and Don't let anyone intimidate you by telling you what you should do with your child. You are the person that is with your child 24/7 and you know best what that child needs. Perhaps the expression 24/7 was not used in 1980, but that's what she meant! : ) Another time when I spoke of frustration with speakers at a series of pre-Easter church services, she said: I always make sure I have my Bible with me and then I can read if I don't want to listen. Perhaps that is why I always take my Bible with me to a service. You and Gwen were a gift to us for those years together at AMC, and in visits after we all went our separate ways. I wish you strength and peace. Pat
Shalom, Ken
Ben Pauls
