Suburban Ministers Gather for Last Words

Six guest clergy spoke at the First United Methodist Church, Des Plaines, on April 14 on the poignant words Jesus said from the cross. Each speaker brought their own point of view and insight. Reverend Dr. Irene Taylor of the First UMC, Des Plaines, organized the both somber and uplifting program. Minister Debra Hawkins from Harvey, IL reminded those present that when Jesus said, "It is finished", he did not say, "I am finished". Reverend Dr. Karen E. Mosby, Evanston, IL asked the question, "Who will you call upon at the last moment in your life as Jesus called, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit?" Violet Ricker pointed out what a powerfully human experience it showed in, "I thirst." Reverend Ric Hudgens from Libertyville, IL tackled, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Local Minister, Tina Shelton of the First United Methodist Church in Des Plaines, talked about any mother's loss which is as sorrowful today as it was then. Lino Aragon, Des Plaines, IL told how to hold on to your faith in difficult times as in Luke 23:24. Reverend Clarence Weaver of Evanston, IL opened the program with Jesus' plea for forgiveness to others.