Memorial Service celebrates lives and legacies of beloved saints
On Thursday night, members of the 2025 Pacific Northwest Annual Conference gathered in reverence and gratitude for a moving Memorial Service. The evening service honored clergy, spouses, lay members, and United Methodist bishops who had completed their earthly journey since the last conference.
The gathering began with a musical prelude offered by Rev. Justin White, AC Worship Coordinator, on piano. Rev. Kristin Joyner opened the service with words of welcome and thanksgiving, recognizing the legacy of faith left by those being remembered. She reminded all present that the saints we honored continue to surround us as a “great cloud of witnesses,” encouraging us in faith and service.
All rose to sing “For All the Saints” and its Spanish counterpart “Hoy, por los santos,” lifting their voices in shared praise. Rev. Dr. Byron Harris offered a greeting, proclaiming the triumph of Christ even in the midst of grief, and calling those gathered to rejoice in the eternal presence of God.
The service continued with a reading of Luke 9:12-17, followed by a sermon from Rev. Elizabeth Schindler. She reflected on her work as a preschool chaplain during leave, and the way children often encounter bible stories familiar to us without the cynicism we often have. “The children receive the stories just as they are … They hear the stories with openness, wonder, and awe.”
The Act of Remembrance formed the heart of the service, as names of the deceased were solemnly read aloud, and candles were lit. The litany included active and retired clergy, spouses, and lay leaders, as well as bishops who have passed.
Holy Communion followed as worshipers shared in the sacred meal of remembrance and hope. Rev. Schindler led a prayer honoring the faithfulness of the saints and affirming that in God’s hands, nothing is wasted or lost.
The service closed with the beloved hymn “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry,” as participants stood in unity—grateful, grieving, and grounded in resurrection hope.
