IT WAS A BUILDING...NOT A CHURCH!
The headlines on the TV news....the Daily Oklahoman...the PDJ....all say the Presbyterian Church burned to the ground last Wednesday night.....I say...the Presbyterian Church is alive and well and still here in Perry USA! Yes...the building where they have met for 50 years...on the location they have met for a 100 years... burned to the ground because of an accident...or arson...or whatever. And yes...it is a tragedy...Hundreds of thousands of dollars (probably millions) in property and buildings lost....a hundred years of memories...no doubt valuable historical records...personal property of the pastor, the secretary and numerous other members....  BUT THE CHURCH STILL STANDS! Why...because the church is NOT the building....it is the people of the congregation. If the church is destroyed...it won't be because of the flames...it will be because the people of the congregation allow the fire of the Holy Spirit to die out in their hearts. I believe... and I predict...the the Presbyterians will be back... probably on that corner...stronger and better than ever because of this loss. I have witnessed it many times throughout the years...adversity brings a congregation together as no other act can....and they come out on the other side more vital...more alive...and working harder for the kingdom than ever before.
I had many, many calls on Thursday from members of our congregation wondering if we had offered our facilities to be used by the Presbyterians. I assured each one that we had....starting during the fire with Lloyd Brown who was on the scene as the Noble County Disaster Coordinator (or whatever his exact title is). Later on in the morning I contacted a member of their Session (Administrative Board) and made the offer again. I believe at this point they have made arrangements to meet at the former Missionary Baptist Church building on 7th street. But rest assured...if the need is there and they approach us, we will be ready to help in whatever way we can. I thank each one of you for your concern....and your willingness to open our doors to the Presbyterians.
By the time you read this...I will either be in surgery...or out of surgery...I covet your prayers for the surgeon and for my rapid recovery. I usually close with 'hope to see you in the pews this Sunday'....but...I'll be out at least the next couple of Sundays.... so I'll just say.... 
                    See you Soon.......I love each and every one of you......
 
Ed