November 22, 2009

Today Dr. Carver was installed as the minister of First Presbyterian Church, the church Emily and Gene found after they moved to Chattanooga.  Joyce drove down from Knoxville after getting up and singing in her own church's early morning service.  She arrived just in time for the service and stayed to visit with Emily until mid-afternoon.

The service was very inspiring, and there was a large crowd there. The Reverend Cliff Hudson delivered the sermon, entitled "Come Over Here and Help Us", and encouraged the congregation to be aware of the opportunities to do God's work whether it is far away or in their own neighborhood.  It was a beautiful occasion, and Emily participated in the Service of Installation. There were three sets of questions - the first set to Dr. Carver; the second set to the Elders of the Session; and the last to the Congregation.  Emily asked the questions of the Congregation. She was dressed in a black velvet dress, and she just looked absolutely beautiful as she stood at the front of the church with the rest of the elders.  Afterward there was a lovely reception.  Bruce once again worked his magic and the social hall was beautifully appointed with flowers and members of the church brought in a wonderful array of finger foods.

One of the questions asked to Dr. Carver was this: "Do you solemnly covenant that, in reliance upon the grace of God, you will endeavor faithfully to fulfill the responsibilities of a pastor to this church, to preach and teach the word of God, to care for the sick, the troubled, the dying, and the bereaved, and to lead this church in its witnesss and ministry, as god gives you wisdom and strength?"  Gene's family bears witness to his faithfulness of this responsibility.  He visited Gene almost every day and gave him spiritual comfort and guidance even to the end of his days.  The family is very grateful for his ministry to Gene in the days and weeks, and yes months of his illness.