WE WILL MISS YOU, FRANCINE

Earlier this afternoon Justin and I sat on our front steps waving goodbye to our dear friend, Francine Chiasson, who tomorrow begins a new chapter of life in Nova Scotia, caring for her aging Mother.

I was so thankful for some time today to share a meal, to pray together, to affirm, once again, all the ways that God has profoundly used her in our lives.

Justin and I are going to miss her deeply, but I have a feeling that the three little people in the picture below might just miss her the most.

 

Two weeks ago, the West Toronto crew threw her a big party. Among much that was written and spoken that night, I wrote these words on behalf of our church family.

Dear Francine,

You have touched and blessed so many lives. As you look around this room tonight, you see the faces of people who love you deeply, whose lives are better because you’ve been a part of them. In you, Francine, we have seen such grace and kindness, such compassion and joy. In you, we have seen a Christ-like love that has prompted us to desire to know better the One whom you love and serve.

Tonight, we give thanks for your life: for the two decades that you have served The Junction community, for the eighteen years that you have served the Family of Faith at West Toronto Baptist Church.

For so many here, your life and love for us has been a wonderful part of our own story. Tonight we join our voices together in affirmation and thanksgiving: thank you, Francine, for loving us; thank you for praying for us; thank you for serving us. Most of all, though, thank you for pointing us to Christ Himself as you joyfully and faithfully have served your Saviour.

 

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.
His mercies never come to an end.
~ Lamentations 3:22-23