By Rev. Dr. Derrick Elliott

Last week, I was honored to officiate two memorial services here in Arizona. Shortly after, I traveled to Louisiana to attend my aunt's funeral—not as a pastor, but as a nephew, son, brother, and cousin. It reminded me that while we as clergy wear many hats—pastor, counselor, officiant, and comforter—the roles we hold within our own families can be the most difficult to navigate. In times of grief, we are called to lead and sit quietly with our sorrow, love, and loss.

Funerals and memorials are full of sadness, but they also bring moments of joy. We tell stories, laugh through tears, and remember what mattered most. In the South, we often say someone has "gone on to glory"—a phrase filled with sorrow and hope. These gatherings are sacred. They remind us that while life is short, love lasts. Our bonds remain strong, even when touched by death.

Reflecting on the past week, my heart returns to the simple beauty of family—childhood memories, backyard meals, and front porch conversations. Those moments feel even more precious with time. What this past week reminded me is something I suspect many of us know deep down: life is fleeting, but love, connection, and faith are what sustain us.

And here's the other truth I've learned—we who so often offer comfort must sometimes allow ourselves to receive it. In those sacred moments where sorrow and joy meet, we glimpse God's grace: the promise of resurrection, the strength of shared love, and the blessing of simply showing up for one another.

As we continue to walk together as a church family, may we always hold space for both grief and grace and never forget how deeply God and each other keep us.