Roger was the pianist for the Cathedral Quartet for many years. I have met him personally on several occasions. I was always impressed and deeply touched when he would just hand music over to my sister and her family, FREE OF CHARGE, once he realized they were missionaries. He has written some of the most beautiful songs to be sung!
Once at a Cathedral concert, at Word of Life, here in Florida, I let loose of my little Shane's hand. He was about 2 years old at the time. Well, that was a huge mistake. He shot off like a rocket after having been couped up in his car seat for a long ride to the Camp. I saw him heading straight for Roger and the Director of Word of Life, where they stood near the front of the auditorium deep in conversation! I didn't catch the little booger in time and -whoosh- right through Roger's legs he flew! I was running behind in hot pursuit!. Roger just rubbed the little tike's head after he passed through, then he glanced at me and chuckled out loud. I think he said something like, "What's he running for? We haven't even started singing yet!" I can't really remember. I was so embarrassed!
I've had a few more conversations with Roger over the years , when I wasn't red with embarrassment! He was always friendly and accessable. Once I mentioned that I had lost my Midnight Meditations CD on the way home from their last concert. I was going to buy a new one. He insisted I just take one! I really did argue no, that wouldn't be right, but he leaned over the table and stuck one in my diaper bag! I will always remember his acts of kindness.
In the last several years, he has been the pianist for Legacy Five Quartet. You can read more about Roger on his blog.
WRITTEN ON ROGER'S JOURNAL FROM DEBBIE BENNETT
March 08, 2007
Well, I hardly know what to write. It has surely been a long few days,weeks, etc., etc. I spoke to the teams of doctors this morning, and they have no new news since yesterday, really. I know there are other tests scheduled for today, and yesterday, they inserted a line and began dialysis. I hope this will help pull some toxins out of his body, and maybe that will jump start things.
The doctors still do not understand what is happening in his body. Besides the obvious infections, which I have described previously, there is still something unidentified that is not allowing him to heal. I have not been able to speak with him since Monday, and I never knew how many things I would want to ask him or talk to him about.
We are all holding up pretty well. Doug came down Tuesday night, and although it is terribly painful for him to see his only child in this state, he is bearing up. Chelsea and Jordan were able to be here on Sunday, so they had a couple of days where they could visit with him. Jordan had to fly back yesterday, and that was so hard. I didn't want to put him on that plane alone, and it was heartbreaking watching him say bye to his dad, not knowing what the future holds. I told him not to feel bad about leaving, since he was here when it really counted, and he is only a plane ride away, should he be needed again.
Chelsea was able to extend her visit, and can be here a few more days. My mom and dad are in Linden, TX right now to be with her Aunt Ora (who is the whole family's favorite) as she is dying. They asked if I needed them here, but I told them to stay with Aunt Ora, as there is little to be done here right now. If the tests that are run in the next few days do not give us more direction, there may be little that can be done for Roger. I do not discount a miracle, but that is what it seems it will take at this point.
I know there are prayers coming our way continuously.....we feel them, and we find much comfort in them. There is a peace in knowing that God is in control, and is working a perfect plan. It may not always feel good, but we continue to trust. I am glad I don't have to orchestrate it all. Please just continue to pray. So many have asked what they can do to help, but that is what we need more than anything. I'd love to see that miracle come our way, but whatever happens, we know we win. There is no down side for Roger. I love you all, and appreciate your support.
We remain always, and securely,
IN HIS GRIP,
Debbie
Debbie
6 comments:
Bless her sweet heart! She needs a hug, doesn't she? I'll say a pray for Roger and his whole family!
~Kristi
What a testimony. i will pray for them all in this difficult time! He also gave my son free CD's when he went alone to a concert. Very giving man!
This is so sad. I'm hearing more and more of how so many are battling serious physical ailments. I'll be so glad when we won't have to deal with any of these things anymore....that day could come today!!! I'll be praying for them. I'll also tell my son about this....I think he knows him. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Aw, what precious memories you share! Thanks for sharing this and spreading the need to storm the gates of heaven for this man. I've always wanted to meet him. I desperately hope I can in this life yet!
Wow, but what an awesome thing for you to be able to remember him that way!! It really makes you think on how you'd be thought of in a time like this...I will add him to my prayer list. That's heartbreaking news to hear. But, God is the Great Physician. If He sees fit to heal him, He will. ^__^
Wow---yall go way back. He seems as does his wife a sweet Christian that trust in the Lord wholly!!
We will life him up!!
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