"I've heard my share of preaching and spent countless hours in church and religious education. On Friday, August 29th, I experienced what heaven is: unconditional love, unlimited abundance, unabashed welcome. and some great food. When we pray, "...thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." we often think about the future. Well, I experienced it in the present moment that day, and I feel like I can take your gift and pass it on to my students, families, colleagues, and community. Thank you for living out the gospel." A Teacher

We received the above note after the "Loving Teachers School Supply Give Away" on August 29. Held in the Linus Pauling Middle School Cafeteria, teachers of elementary and high school in Benton County were invited to come and "shop" for free. Many of you donated items for this give-away.

This is the sixth year that we have organized this event and each year it becomes bigger and better. This year 329 teachers received about $109,000 worth of items. More than forty volunteers stood ready to assist with big smiles and willing hands. For the first time we had a group of yellow hatted "BOBs" (Beasts of Burden) ready to carry heavy bags out to the cars.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for praying, for giving and for blessing this community by blessing the teachers. It obviously has been received in the spirit in which it was meant. I'm so grateful.