Joy Comes in the Mourning

In 2010, Charlie and Sally Davis and their family experienced an unexpected loss. Their daughter, Raegan passed away, leaving an irreplaceable hole in their hearts. Raegan was laid to rest in the HP Pres Columbarium where her loved ones visit her frequently. In the fifteen years since her passing, Charlie shares how God completely transformed his life in the midst of his grief. “We all experience loss in life, but God meets us in our grief. As we encounter loss, our faith in Christ gives us hope through his love and his joy.” 

The Columbarium has become a place of hope for him over the years – often finding joy listening to the laughter of children in the play areas, peace in the shade of the steeple, and hope gazing at the names of believers laid to rest behind the marble walls. Charlie shares, “It’s a loving space where we can spend time in quiet reflection with the Lord. At the same time, it’s a beautiful way to honor and preserve the saints that proceed us.” 

Ultimately, the Columbarium serves as a reminder that we do not grieve as those without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). The sting of death is made obsolete by Christ, our risen savior. While we mourn the absence of our loved ones from this life, we can find hope in knowing that death is not the end. Charlie shares, “There is both joy and sorrow in grief. They have a tension, but they are both there.”

On Monday, Feb. 3 we began expanding the Columbarium to accommodate for the growing needs of our church family. Join us in praying over those walking through great loss, and that the Columbarium will continue to be a place of healing and hope.

Learn more at hppres.org/columbarium.