Friends, I'm writing to let you know that our eldest member and one of the matriarchs of the church, Doris Lamping, died in the early morning hours today. She slipped into God's eternal life holding her daughter's hand while her daughter and granddaughter sang "Amazing Grace" to her.

This is a perfect end for a woman whose life was marked by her faith and her family. She was a lifelong member of Trinity UCC (formerly Trinity E&R) until it closed, and then with her family joined Immanuel. She was an auntie and grandmother figure to many, and was a regular teacher for Vacation Bible School. (Some of you may still have the matchstick crosses she helped you make, and for which she painstakingly burned thousands of matches.)

When not at church, Doris could likely be found holding court with her sister Elaine Bielefeld at Panera Bread, cheering on her favorite sports teams, or gathering with a gaggle of family members -- unless it was Saturday morning, when she was at the beauty shop. During COVID, she and her family quickly learned Zoom and created their own little satellite Immanuel -- one that continued meeting through this summer as she struggled with health issues.

Doris was one of those folks who was truly kind to all she met, and whose faith helped her assume the best in everyone. You felt it when you were with her.

Arrangements are still being worked out, but will likely include a funeral at the church late next week. Her arrangements are being handled by Arch L. Heady at Resthaven. I will send a second email with details as soon as I know them.

With love and prayer,

Pastor Rachel