We will work with each other, we will work side by side

...he views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens. Job 28:24

Serving dinner for 100 in a church sanctuary in midwestern Wisconsin is a small challenge. Creating a Moroccan eatery using pastel pink church chairs and a large room with a stage and cross at one end is a big one! My sister-in-law Melissa is the one with the flair for aesthetic beauty, and hit upon using scarves as a curtain of sorts. Walking through that streaming silk transported our diners into another world.

My mom is well-known for her dramatic flair and had fun becoming a sort of "prop" in her spur-of-the-moment Moroccan costume.


I orchestrated the cooking & baking, and organized the "back of house" duties - preparing, plating, and sending out food in the appropriate order. An apron from a dear friend made me feel like I fit the theme perfectly.

Over forty people helped our Bible study group serve this dinner. The college students eagerly - and aptly - rose to the task of serving 5 courses impeccably.

The crowning finish to the evening, the desserts with which I was so happy. The whole evening a success, and a tired Thul clan headed for home at a remarkably reasonable hour this year. I felt as though my love for my church and all the dear saints in it flavored every dish and glowed - by the grace of God - for hours after we washed the last dish.

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that our unity will one day be restored
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yeah they'll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side
We will work with each other, we will work side by side
And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yeah, they'll know we are Christians by our love.

Love is patient,
love is kind
Never boasts, not full of pride
Always hopes, always trusts
The evidence of Christ in us
~ They Will Know We are Christians By Our Love, Peter Scholtes/Carolyn Arends

Photos were taken by my mom, Debra Holmen, & some anonymous church-goers!