On this Thankful Thursday I am thankful for the gifts that the Rev. Jerry Wagner brings to my life. Jerry and his wife, Pat, are friends we met at Chautauqua through Bob and Jane Russell. Jerry is a minister in the United Methodist Church. Last year there was a big bash to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of his ordination. He is a graduate of Lycoming College where he worked his way through. He worked nights on the newspaper staff where he became an excellent writer. His wonderful speaking voice, his excellent communication skills, and his understanding of human behavior have made him an in demand speaker and conference leader. He is also one who is called upon to smooth troubled waters and to shepherd a troubled congregation. He has a wonderful sense of humor and is an incurable punster. Pat is long suffering through all of this and often tries to bring him back to reality. Pat and Jerry came over to Williamsport so the six of us could have dinner together when Carol and I were visiting the Russells recently. The three men often eat breakfast together at the diner when we are at Chautauqua. Jerry has a wonderful perspective on the Scriptures and is a walking encyclopedia about all things Methodist He always has an interesting perspective on difficult passages. We missed seeing Pat and Jerry when we were at Chautauqua this year. They are very special people.  On this Thankful Thursday I am blessed by the gifts that Jerry Wagner brings to my life. He is a remarkable servant of God and man.

Thankful Thursday is a day set aside to honor someone who is special to your life and to let him or her know of your gratitude. Develop an attitude of gratitude. Say Something Nice; Be a Lifter. You will be glad that you did.

Tags: Methodists, minister, pun, voice, Williamsport