“Now, if you want to start filling out your faith promises, we’ll be sending the collection plate after David and Sharon speak. Which brings me to our other couple who will be speaking for you today. David and Sharon are back from their missions journey from the UK.” They mildly applaud for us. It’s going to fail.
“I’ll just let them take the floor and…” His voice grows milder as he walks away from the microphone. No more sweating, but I know I’m pale as a ghost. We get up towards the execution block and take our stand to mild, forced applause. Sharon told me that she’d start out. I wait for her to break the ice. Her Minnesota accent makes her sound neighborhood-friendly.
“Thank ya. Thank all ya. After two years away, I can easily say that it’s good to be home. It’s always been a pleasure to come see you folks at Bluffton Methodist Church.” She looks to me. It’s my turn. Stop thinking and say the lines.