1.24.1928-3.25.2008 Whenever I’m asked to describe who Jesus is for me, I think of Mary. To be in her presence was to know what it is to be a beloved child of God. Mary had the gift of holy hospitality. Her home felt like being home, being where you belong, being where you were meant to be. Enter with an unsettled soul, and Mary soon calmed the stormy waters. Bring dis-ease of spirit, and she offered you the peace that passes understanding. No matter how you came, you left having been graced by her gentle voice, her insightful discernment, her empathetic compassion, her wise counsel, and unconditional acceptance. She saw in you more than you could see. You felt she looked at you through the eyes of Jesus. Still waters run deep and Mary ran deep. Mary knew how to listen to you, because she knew how to listen to God. Conversation with Mary felt like prayer. Eating vegetable soup with her at her kitchen table was holy communion. As was being included at the dining room table with her family for Easter dinner. When we left Martin, Mary gave us a wood bread box. Taped to the bottom was a key to her back door. If home is where your heart is, we knew with Mary that we didn’t need a key, for it was always open.
Mike Ripski
For Mary Pritchett, in the Fullness of God's Kingdom
There is a light inside this very room
that glows with soft and reassuring beams
Although the lamp that held it once is gone
and hidden in the earth,to me its seems
shadows still melt before its subtle power.
This fragile lantern lit the psalmist's page
where plaints and praise from God's Davidic sage
yet move through spirit lips into our ears.
Thus, with newness of heartand heaven my goal,
a borrowed brightness from undying source
awakes the sleeping harp within my soul.
Bob Peckham, 3/29/08
Any memorials may be made to Martin First United Methodist Church.
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