Monday morning started in an awesome way.  Worship was held at St. Paul’s in Saginaw.  I usually worship in rental facilities like school cafeterias or office complexes or in small church buildings.  To be in such a cathedral-like edifice was awe-inspiring to say the least.  We have no such WELS church building like that in the South.  It literally took my breath away, otherwise it was my asthma from walking up all the steps.

The singing was powerful and gave me the chills.  Personally, I would have chosen a few more lively songs.

I would have liked to see the presiding minister to smile more, especially during the absolution and the benediction.

The use of other instruments was sensational — the trumpets, bells and drums.  The cymbals during the singing of Jerusalem the Golden gave me goose bumps.

The sermon by Pastor Treptow was well-crafted and well-delivered.  It contained specific law and gospel with timely and practical applications.

It had been a long time since I received the wine of Lord’s Supper from a common cup.

It was a pleasant walk to and from worship.  About 6-7 blocks from the MLS campus.

President Mark Schroeder’s Report ran 30 minutes over the time he himself set for it.  I am sure the other bloggers will give you the details of his report.

A great amount of time was spent on the discussion of the budget, including an Open Hearing in the evening.  I appreciate those who studied this thoroughly and take it very seriously.  Some are very passionate about the options presented — Options A and B.  Others are requesting an Option C.  In fact, one delegate asked everyone who wanted an option other than A or B to stand.  It was interesting to listen and observe.

It was an awesome first day.

Lighten up in Christ and live your life for him.