by Wanda Ingram
Superannuation is always a celebratory time because it allows friends and family to honor a priesthood member who has given years of long and faithful service. Recently, five priesthood members at Thunderbird West, found their life circumstances had limited their ability to fully function in their particular priesthood offices. The October 23rd event honored five: John Decker, Leah Krueger, Ron Silverthorn, Muriel Talcott and Sigurd Wingard.
Eldora Engebretson and Scott Sloan graciously served as co-chairs for the evening celebration which included a banquet and a service of recognition. As people entered the church, they were greeted, with the pleasant aroma of good food, along with the smiling faces of Alyssa Brittan, Rylee Garlock and Victoria Stafford who extended a welcome and trays of cheese to each individual. The three girls, and Evan Sloan, along with a few somewhat older waiters and waitresses, served each table.
After dinner, while the dedicated kitchen crew did the cleaning up, the rest retired to the sanctuary where the program of recognition took place. Arizona Mission Center President, Mike Hoffman, spoke briefly about the priesthood category of superannuation. Each honoree was asked to prepare a brief summary of his or her life which was shared, including a Power Point tribute with photos. After the Power Point presentation, a family member, or friend, recalled some more special, as well as a few, rather humorous incidents about each honoree. Everyone appreciated learning more about what these people had done during their working years, and their years serving our Lord. Each was given a Certificate of Superannuation, signed by Steve Veazey, president of the Community of Christ. Then a final prayer of thanksgiving and celebration was offered by pastor Mike Alexander.
