U2charist!

Now I understand why the word U2charist is usually preceded by very few words and followed by an exclamation point. U2charist! After you've been to one, there is no need to say more. But for those of you who weren't there, I'll try to say a little more than that.

It was transcendent. The Nave was dimly lit with candles and familiar songs from U2 filled the space. A giant screen on the chancel railing showed images of peacemakers like Nelson Mandela and Bishop Tutu. Both inside and outside the Nave the air was full of anticipation and happy energy. As the service started, the Palmer youth group and a few intrepid adults provided enthusiastic "Dancing Leadership" from the front rows, so from the beginning most of the congregation grooved along with them (although it must be said that only the Dancing Palmers actually STOOD on the pews!). It was an experience of pure joy; all were invited, we hope inspired, to carry that feeling into great purpose.

The presentation on the screen also carried reminders, like this one, of why we were there: 1.4 billion people in the world live in extreme poverty ($1.25 per day). All of the proceeds from last night's collection will go to support the effort to reduce that number by half by 2015.

On the patio afterward, Palmer hospitality was abundant and greeters were in fine form. Many guests and visitors were positively beaming and gladly took Palmer Greeter bags.

Your Palmer Editor emerged this morning with sore (but happy) feet and a head full of music:

One love, one blood
One life, you got to do what you should
One life, with each other
Sisters, brothers

One life but we're not the same
We get to carry each other, carry each other
One
One

My heart soars.