Boulder Sharefest Update

The Sharefest was great yesterday. We finished up the work at our school by washing the windows in Principal's and Vice Principal's office. They had been egged a few times over the years. At the end of the day and a half, the school sparkled and looked spectacular! (There was also a group that wrote cards and notes of appreciation to the faculty and staff of each of the schools.) From the school we went over to the University of Colorado Campus for a three church celebration with 1,600 people. After a bit of worship music, and a driving video of the five school project, the project team leaders were recognized and principals and school district officials were brought up on stage to a standing ovation. Paint-spakled Pastor Tom Shirk said, "We want to stand with you and help make Boulder County Schools the best in the world." School board officials, in gratitude, said that the 1,400 people, working on five school campuses had saved the school district an estimated $300,000. One school board member said, "Apart from all the painting and landscaping and clean-up you have filled these days with the kind of love that only a community can provide fo schools." Afterwards Tom prayed a blessing on those who serve our schools...for joy, health and provision for those who serve in Boulder Valley Schools. It was great. Pastor Harvey Friesen of Boulder Valley Christian gave a brief message on Jeremiah 29:7--praying for and seeking the prosperity of Boulder. "We give our service to you as grace." And all those who were served could say was "amazing!" There was joy in the city.
After the 55 minute service we had a great barbecue on the lawns in front of Mackey Auditorium. All we could say was "How great was that!?!?"

Tom Shirk just sent an email to all 700 Sharefest participants from Calvary Bible Church. He ended with these words:

Serving together in SHAREFEST 2005 was the richest experience of joy we have ever known. I want you to know how very proud I am of you as a disciple of our Lord and member of Calvary Bible Church. I am filled with joy in you! Thank you for making this weekend the high-water mark for our church.
As I leave on sabbatical, I am going with such happiness in being your pastor! I will be praying for you; thanks for praying for me and my family. I love you very much.

Pastor Tom