From the Pews: Dale Buchanan

By Dale Buchanan

I am a memoir writer and a storyteller. I showed up at the Big Red Church three years ago at the invitation of Gayle Thornton. I had not attended or been active in church life of any kind for several years. In response to your questions about me, this short memoir is intended to reveal just a little bit of me by talking about the “Getting to Know You” column and its effect on who I have become.

My reception at Big Red has been nothing but amazing. It is true that I have for some time written memoirs and for a long time told stories. The truth is that these activities have never been a public endeavor. With Gayle’s help and the gracious consent of so many of you, I have been privileged to share your stories with the congregation for just shy of a year.

Recording and sharing your stories has had a positive effect on my life and has been my best church experience ever. With humor and candor, everyone of you have given me a boost and a sense of renewed faith. The diversity of this fellowship is overwhelming. Your open and affirming stance is not just words but is made evident in the people who come through the doors every Sunday morning. I grew up in a homogeneous church family. Indeed, we were for the most part blood-related. This weekly peek into your varied backgrounds has broadened my horizons.
I was not a happy camper when I came here. You accepted me and not only that, I have been trusted to spotlight a “person from the pews” every week. The effect on me has been nothing short of a radical change in my attitude and my life.

Thanks again to the leadership, the Communications Committee (COMCOM), the congregation, those folks who have stepped out of the pews and shared details of their lives, and especially to my note taker, editor, and best friend Gayle. I remain your faithful scribe, Dale.