Chris is being released as Bishop of the Kaw River Ward tomorrow. He has served in that position since March of 2003. Being bishop is a challenging calling in any ward, but the Kaw River Ward is unique. More that 50% of it's population is Spanish-speaking with most of those members coming from Mexico but some from Central and South America, as well. The unity within the ward has increased dramatically in the past six and one-half years and we have come to love them all. Chris couldn't have done this work without the help of several key members of the ward.
Chris wanted to throw a party for those who have served with him in the Priesthood Executive Committee to "toast" them and give each of them a letter, as well as a gift of appreciation. We visited and ate dinner and then moved to the family room for the main event:
Gabriel Mera has served as Chris' first counselor for about five years. He was a bishop in Mexico and has been a great support to Chris.
The Miller's are members of the Indian Creek ward who were called to serve in Kaw River about three years ago. Scott was Chris' second counselor. Jenni has served as Primary Chorister, Sunday School teacher, Activity Days Leader, and as a member of the ward activities committee.
Angel Morillo served with Chris' father, Harlan, in the River View branch many years ago. You can tell they have a warm and loving relationship.
Angel has served as the ward Executive Secretary. He is the kindest, most loving man I know. He is always ready with a smile and a hug whenever he sees you.
Clark Hepworth is a seminary teacher and ward membership clerk. He is also very funny, has a very positive attitude, and is willing to do whatever is asked of him...including driving a van full of rambunctious youth to and from the temple...three times!!!
Louise Jones is the Relief Society President and has been since the ward was created about eight years ago. Chris thinks she will be translated any day for her many years of valiant service!
Chris' mom, Cecilia, came with us to the Kaw River ward to play the organ and will join us in the Indian Creek ward next week.
Ralph and Norma Guenther were called from the Overland Park 2nd ward. Norma has been Young Women's President for about five years. Ralph has served as Troop Committee Chairman as well as Ward Mission Leader.
Larry Brown was the bishop of the Kaw River Ward before Chris. He has served as High Priest Group Leader. He and his wife, Sally, are stalwart members of the ward.
Jim Heath was Chris' first counselor when the bishopric was brand new. He and his wife, Carolyn, and son, Paul (Elder Heath) are members of the Chapel Hill ward but have served in KR since it was created. They are fine people who willingly serve in whatever capacity they are called to.
The Autrey's are from OP 2nd ward and have been serving in KR just a short time. Trinstin served a Spanish-speaking mission and requested to serve here shortly after his return. His mother and younger brother, Vincent, joined him a short time later. Tristin is the first counselor in the YM presidency and Karla is the 1st counselor in the YW presidency.
Chris taught the scouts the Haka--a Samoan warrrior dance--to perform at the campfire on the last night of scout camp. A few of them perform it here for old times' sake.
Chris' mom, Cecilia, came with us to the Kaw River ward to play the organ and will join us in the Indian Creek ward next week.
Ralph and Norma Guenther were called from the Overland Park 2nd ward. Norma has been Young Women's President for about five years. Ralph has served as Troop Committee Chairman as well as Ward Mission Leader.
Larry Brown was the bishop of the Kaw River Ward before Chris. He has served as High Priest Group Leader. He and his wife, Sally, are stalwart members of the ward.
Jim Heath was Chris' first counselor when the bishopric was brand new. He and his wife, Carolyn, and son, Paul (Elder Heath) are members of the Chapel Hill ward but have served in KR since it was created. They are fine people who willingly serve in whatever capacity they are called to.
The Autrey's are from OP 2nd ward and have been serving in KR just a short time. Trinstin served a Spanish-speaking mission and requested to serve here shortly after his return. His mother and younger brother, Vincent, joined him a short time later. Tristin is the first counselor in the YM presidency and Karla is the 1st counselor in the YW presidency.
Chris taught the scouts the Haka--a Samoan warrrior dance--to perform at the campfire on the last night of scout camp. A few of them perform it here for old times' sake.You can see that the people we have served with in the Kaw River ward are among the best in the church. It will be very difficult to leave them tomorrow and return to a "normal" ward. It has been quite the emotional roller coaster since we learned of Chris' release a few weeks ago!
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