Sorrow and joy: Wesleyan Fellowship Class celebrates return with unique service

The Wesleyan Fellowship Class of HPUMC has been together for 41 years, but the past 18 months have perhaps been the most difficult time in their history. During that time, they’ve been unable to meet in person because of the pandemic. However, unlike other classes that met via Zoom, they’ve kept in touch over emails crafted by a couple of their members, John Croft and Holman King.

“Our class president, John Croft, made a gallant effort to search out ways and means to hold Wesleyan Fellowship Class together until we came out the other side,” said Bill Furr, “and we all thank him for that.”

In fact, even though their class didn’t meet face to face, they continued supporting ministries of HPUMC as well, including raising thousands of dollars for Camp to Career.

But it hasn’t been easy.

“It has been difficult for all and impossible for some,” said Furr. “We have lost far too many of our dear classmates, and we extend our condolences and sympathy to their families and loved ones. Our class has struggled, but through our faith, commitment, and love for each other, we have maintained our core values and determination.”

On September 12, their distanced communication came to an end, and they met for the first time in person again. This rededication/memorial service, with Dr. John Fiedler, Senior Associate Minister, as its speaker, was a time for the Wesleyan Fellowship Class to memorialize class members who passed away during the pandemic and to rededicate the class to the goals and objectives that have served them well for the last four decades.

Although this new chapter for their class begins with a mix of sorrow and joy, they’re excited to be back together. “We're about to pick up the pieces, dust off the remains, and start all over again,” said Furr.