The Upload
Posted on Aug 12, 2016 by Heather Lewis
Dear Salem family,
One of the wonderful things about working in a church is that you are surrounded by people who are here because they care: they encourage, serve, celebrate, cry and laugh together. Where I work is an extension of my family, and I’d like to share some of my Salem story with you.
I began working at Salem after a very difficult time in my life. My daughter Casey was born prematurely at 25 weeks, weighing less than 2 pounds. She lived in the NICU at KU Medical Center for the first 4 months of her life, and I lived there with her for the last month. When she was just 9 months old I became the pianist and song leader at Salem’s Saturday evening service with Pastor Ron Olson. What a blessing that time was in my life! I met so many of you during those intimate services – Pastor Ron had to shake the entire congregation’s hands during the passing of the peace, so we all took his lead and became a very close and caring community.
It wasn’t long after I became the Sunday morning worship and music director at Salem that I found out I was going to have my third child, and then discovered that two other singers were expecting also! In 2011, Ruby Trana, Faith Lewis and Nora Brown were all born within 3 months of each other. These girls have a very special bond, and I love watching them grow up together.
When people talk about what Salem means to them, the relationships that are made as they worship, fellowship and serve together are without a doubt the most important part of their experience. Choir members not only sing together, but they support and encourage each other. Our kids are an amazing example of how to work and play together with all ages and abilities. Our seniors share their stories over delicious potluck lunches. Our leaders tirelessly meet to plan new and meaningful ministries.
Thank you for making Salem a place where all are welcome, and there is room for everyone at the table to be in relationship with a caring community.
Heather Lewis
Director of Music and Worship