When Faith Matters

mkuhn@iocp.org — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 20:39:46 +0000

On Saturday, August 6, our shocked and deeply saddened community was privy to an unbelievably inspiring witness of faith in family and in community.

Hundreds of people packed Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis to mourn the heart-stopping loss of Jamison and Kathryne Engel Pals and their beautiful children Ezra, Violet and Calvin; with Gordy and Nancy Engel and Cedrick and Kathy Pals, their parents; alongside extended family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and the Pals’ faith community.

The power of faith that holds these amazing families fast in what Gordy Engel, Kathryne’s dad, spoke of as a move from the unthinkable to the unbelievable – from wrenching heartache to trust in God’s purpose in the midst of breathtaking loss – was indescribably profound.

Jamison and Kathryne and their children were on route to a final training in preparation for their mission to Japan when their earthly lives were ended as the result of a tragic car accident. Word of their selfless and faith-filled commitment that seemed to end so abruptly broke the hearts of not only family, friends and the communities that knew and loved them most but people all across this country. At the same time, it inspired an immediate and powerful response. Young people from all over the country, family and friends rallied to continue their mission.

A foundation for that purpose has been created. Memorial gifts can be made online or mailed to the Jamison and Kathryne Pals Family Foundation, 3570 Vicksburg Lane N., Ste 100, Plymouth, MN 55447.

Faith in family matters always…but there are moments when its power lights up the world. This was definitely one of them.

What Matters: LaDonna’s Blog

When Faith Matters