The Beachcomber, perhaps rather foolishly, recently encouraged letters to the editor if they were kept below 300 words. At a youthful 89, I will observe that limit, although I have lots to say before moving on.

First, I don’t belong to any organized religion; I attend Burton Community Church and have for 25 years. For me, the wondrous years were when Rev. Marcus Walker was in the pulpit. He was also artistic director at the Lakewood Playhouse, had studied directing in London and his dear wife Laurie was and is on the Tacoma City Council. Cancer took him in a different direction.

Second, the church is in trouble, and I am asking if there are folks out there who might be interested. Twice a month guest ministers are in the pulpit, and other Sundays there are lay leaders.

Recently there was a poetry service, and soon there will be an all-music service. There is a great small choir twice a month led by Vashon’s own Maggie Laird, who is also church pianist.

On a recent Sunday, we heard about a member discovering and walking through Vashon’s Lost Lake, and for the first time in history we learned the name of our founding (1892) minister’s wife —  Josephine.

On the walls are three paintings by bird artist Edmund Sawyer, now living with his wife Helen out at the Vashon Cemetery.

As noted, the church could use a few folks who might be interested in something a little different. Great coffee, snacks and conversation after the service.

Last, no one at Burton Church (11 a. m. every Sunday) knows I’m writing this letter, so I may be taking a chance. On the other hand, no one has been burned at the stake for years down at Burton Church.

By my count that’s under 300 words. Hallelujah!

— Gordon Fisk