Dear Church Family,
Traditions are the lifeblood of families, communities, nations---and churches. 
We have some grand traditions at FVCC. 
On Monday, we hosted the annual dessert for the graduating 8th grade students of Lee Kellogg school, along with their parents and teachers.  The entire class is only six students. But they were all here and it was touching to hear the teachers give their personalized tributes, advice, and gifts.  This has been a tradition for more than 60 years, going back even to when Lynn’s mom, Esther Rebillard, was a teacher there. 
On Sunday, we were treated to what I hope, indeed, anticipate, will become an annual  tradition – a concert of sacred music by the combined choirs of Falls Village, Norfolk, and Cornwell, conducted by the incomparable Liz Allyn.  What a wonderful spirit there was that afternoon, as God was praised and the congregation united in a rich variety of anthems, hymns, and spiritual songs.  God seemed palpably present.   Kudos go to Liz for her leadership—and I was so proud of our congregation –11 singers in a choir of 33 and 18 others connected to the church attending.  And of course, my day was made especially memorable by the presentation of birthday cake both morning and afternoon—and the wearing of the truly unique birthday hat. 
This coming Sunday is Remembrance Sunday, another longstanding tradition of FVCC.  A number of members and friends who now are part of the church triumphant, will be recognized by the reading of their names, the ringing of the bell, and the singing of “For All the Saints.” 
The sermon will be “A World Full of Hope” and the texts are Genesis 18:1-15 and Romans 5:1-8.
See you in church. 
Rich