Hi Angels, family, friends and other devotees

Mike told us we weren't to read anyone Else's comments before posting our own, so here goes.....

Sunday church...WOW. It has been the highlight of my trip thus far. I so enjoyed the unique experience in each of the 3 churches. Having the opportunity to sing in all 3 was such a culmination of emotions. It was a bit like when we do a gig and at some point when your singing you realise "yeah... this is right for me, this is why I come to choir every week, because I love it!"

Let me tell you it's real hard to sing, smile for the congregation (let alone for the video camera) and cry at the same time!

I have been deeply touched by the humble circumstances of many we fellowshipped with. Do they feel sorry for themselves? No way... they are grateful to just be alive and to worship. I am also deeply touched by their hospitality, humility, generosity of praise, warmth, inner happiness which they show on the outside, talent that they are all too happy to share, their graciousness towards us and above all their faith. They loved our singing (I had been apprehensive that they would think we were imposter's) and praised us no end. They want the Band of Angels to come back again next year!!!! 

The people we met are the salt of the earth and there is much I (we) can learn from the congregations of Bethlehem, New Philadelphia and Mount Vernon. We smiled, laughed,kissed, embraced, shook and held hands and perspired  together. We were even fed some mighty fine tucker.

Finally, I was riveted  by the Assistant Pastor (I think that was his title) Darnell McKinney Gooch (I was sitting next to his proud grandmother) who almost raised the roof with his (about) 45 min. sermon. He's good... I think he covered the whole bible in that sermon.

I'm looking forward to singing and attending church in Chicago next week.

Until we meet again

Moira