At Frank's funeral we were invited to light a candle and share thoughts about what made Frank special - We thought it would be good to extend that to the Forum.
Here's a thought from me...
The great thing I will remember about Frank is that he was always pleased to see you - he'd bounce up to you with great enthusiasm and a huge smile on his face. When he asked how you were doing you knew he was really interested rather than just doing the whole "hello, how are you?" just for the sake of it. He had a genuineness about him that is sadly far to rare these days.
He never pretended to be anything he wasn't. The memory of Frank asleep in the foetal position under the cross during meditations will always inspire me to rest in God's love.
Have to share a quote from N aged 5, on the way back from the internment on Sunday: "Frank used to help a lot with the lunch, didn't he? I'm going to help now." And he did.Â
Eight months ago, just after Frank died, I emailed the Icthus fellowship in south London, about which he used to talk so much. Have today received this reply which I thought I'd encourage you all with!
Dear Kath, You kindly emailed us earlier this year telling us that Frank Sanders had died. At the time I copied your email to some of our leaders and workers to see if any remembered him. One or two did, including myself (just). But we were touched to hear that he joined you in his latter years and that he died trusting Jesus and in fellowship with God's people. Your message encouraged us as we continue to care for the Franks of today - I was speaking with one of our sound system guys this morning who has a background of alcohol abuse,and I came away thanking Jesus for the grace and power of the gospel of Jesus, as this man and his children have been so transformed through prayer and fellowship.
I am so sorry to have been so long in responding to your lovely and thoughtful note. Your email was mislaid for a while!
May the Lord strengthen and bless you as you reach out in His name, and may St John's be blessed with increase and love.
In His dear Name
Faith Forster