STEVE & FRANCESCA CRANE FAMILY

CHRISTMAS 2017

When Jesus was born, the angels proclaimed, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:14 NRSV).

We are at the end of another disturbing year for this world. The news is full of wars, hate, bigotry, prejudice, abuse, killing, lying, lust, greed, envy, pride, . . .; The list could go on.

As an adult, Jesus taught, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Jesus’ peace is needed more than ever. We wish you the peace, grace and love of God this Christmas season and throughout the New Year.

David continues working at Brian’s House Enterprises. He is capable of simple tasks such as sorting hardware and punch cards; these give him a sense of purpose and work place involvement. Earlier this year David was among the protestors at a rally in Harrisburg when the State of Pennsylvania was seeking major changes that would have essentially shut down vocational training centers like Brian’s House. Fortunately, the law was corrected.

The Book Family Farm continues to patiently work with David as he learns to care for horses, ride and enjoy animals. His niece, Hannah, is constantly there to encourage him. His sister, Bethany also helps.  David enjoyed two weeks of vacation at Jaycee Camp in Effort, PA again this year. We are thankful for his caring counselors, Zac and Paige.

Francesca (aka Missy) returned to Bridge of Hope Lancaster & Chester Counties in April as Interim Executive Director. The organization is going through major changes that resulted in uniting with Good Samaritan Shelter to form a new group, Bridge of Hope @ Good Samaritan Services. She continues finalizing details and will continue through March. She works as an Adjunct Professor at Eastern University as needed in the areas of Nonprofit and International Leadership Development.  She completed her term as President of Coatesville Rotary Club in June and continues serving on the executive committee of the Chester County Advisory Board for Mental Health/Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities.

Steve continues in ministry as chaplain at Norristown State Hospital. It is a challenge and a joy to minister to the patients in this forensic psychiatric setting. At The end of February he completed his interim pastoral ministry at GraceCrossing Community Church in Phoenixville. It is nice to sit among the congregation at Ridgeview Mennonite Church on Sundays when he is not in Norristown. In December he will begin serving an 8 month interim as conference minister of the Atlantic Coast Conference of the Mennonite Church USA.  He will serve six churches in New York City. Recently, Steve was accepted to serve on the West Brandywine Township Zoning Hearing Board. He completed a term on the Board of Directors for Tel Hai Retirement community, but continues to help with the Tel Hai Ukulele Band. He also joins Walt Kinsey for music programs at local institutions as he is able.

We continue to enjoy our new home. We had the kitchen remodeled in the Spring. Thanks go to Kyle King, Building Contractor for his work. Steve enjoys the additional yard work and flower beds. We were happy to be able to make a few visits to Steph and Ben and our 3 creative granddaughters, Morgan, Maya and Mercy, in Evanston, IL. They joined us in July along with Bethany and Steve, and Daniel and Hannah at our Pocono mountain cottage. We held “cousin camp” with a lot of fun and activities.

The God of peace be with you all. Amen. (Romans 15:33)

We are thankful for your friendship, letters and caring.

Sincerely,

            Steve & Francesca

                   and David