By Laura Ecklin
Youth Ministry & Administrative Manager

Standing in a kitchen in front of the crock pots lining the counter, deciding which crackers to pair with the dip you just ladled on your plate. Who made this one? Who brought this cheese? No one can hear your questions because the laughter is too loud. You have to wait until she is done telling that story.

How is work? Is your daughter doing travel lacrosse again? Can I bring my kids to the Veritas retreat late? Who’s watching your kids tonight? Where did you get that sweater? How is the move going?

She has scary medical tests coming up. Her mom isn’t doing well. She found a lump in her breast. Her kid is struggling at school. She’s exhausted.

Page 42 of the A Sanctified Art Advent Devotional lists a song encouraging joy and laughter, despite the fact that life still comes with a broad range of other emotions, complexities, and hardships. “Let joy be your companion, let laughter ring out everywhere...For joy’s a gift from God.”

Women’s ministries have always been a part of Westminster’s history, but recently, we’ve added more. Grown them. Invited her to come to that. These groups, meetings, events, and retreats have held me up. Mostly, they make me laugh too loud.

Check your bulletin. Look on the website. Send me an email. Come laugh with me. I want you there.