(seq. 117)

October 14, 1945

Dear Mr. Lavely:

It was with the deepest regret that
I learned of your acceptance of a new pastorate. We
have learned and profited so much by your sermons and
your interpretation of the Word of God that we know
our loss will be the gain of those with whom you come
in contact.

Your sincere and homey way of briging
your own life and family into your talks makes us feel
that though we have you with us only once a month, we
have become a part of you and you of us.

One sermon I remember particularly
well, along with others, is where you gave us the idea
that we are like the hands or tools of God, that we are
One with Him and must do His work as if we were, liter-
ally, His Hands. I liked and appreciated that thought.
There are many others that I recall you have brought
to us and know that we are grateful.

I shall always remember the meeting
I had with your wife. She was so interested and eager
to know and be a part of the things that affected us.
Then I think of the two of you walking through life,
eager and alive : giving of yourselves and of your God-
given talents; it makes me happy to be in this world
and know people like you.

Sincerely,
[Signed]
Marian
Cooper