“The rabbis tell us that when a wise man was asked what he would do if he knew that the world was soon to end, the man replied that he would plant a tree.” I can’t remember where I first came across this quote, but I find in it a wonderful expression of hope.

Over 40 years ago, during a time of growth and development, surrounded by excitement and uncertainty about what might be the outcome of such growth, a “Tree” was planted on 5 acres of land where Adam Keeling Road and Woodside Lane meet. It was a special “Tree” – its roots were planted in the rich soil of the Good News of Jesus Christ. And it was nourished by the living waters of Baptism and by both Word and Sacrament. Such nourishment enabled the young “Tree” of 40 years ago to stand firm in times when the winds of adversity blew against it. And so it has stood and grown for these 40 plus years. Today this “Tree” stands tall and it branches – Outreach, Parish Life, Worship, Formation, Stewardship, Youth, Families with Children – spread out all across the surrounding community of Great Neck offering still a place of hope and support for all who come under its canopy.

As you may have guessed, this “Tree” is a metaphor for All Saints’, and each person who has attended this parish over these 40 years, both those still alive, and those who now rest in peace, has helped to make us what we are today. As the Feast of All Saints’ (Nov. 1) approaches, let us remember with thanksgiving those who have preceded us, and let us each renew our commitment of time, talent, and treasure as we move with hope into the future to which God is calling us.
The Rev. Dr. Stanley W. Sawyer