Our hearts were overflowing with gratitude on Sunday, November 30, as we gathered for worship and, after the service, to recognize two precious birthdays in the Redeemer family.
Young Declan Kiley, with that bright smile we all adore, turned 9 years old — full of wonder, energy, and the sweet promise of childhood.
And then there’s our dear Bud Aprill — our gentle giant of faith — who gracefully celebrated his 90th year, a living testament to a life poured out in love for his Lord and for every soul around him.
Two birthdays, eighty-one years apart, yet united in the same sanctuary, under the same grace, surrounded by the same family of God at Redeemer. What a tender, breathtaking reminder that every year — whether you’re blowing out 9 candles or 90 — is a gift straight from the Father’s hand.
We prayed God’s deepest blessings over both of our “birthday boys,” asking that Declan would grow strong in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man, and that Bud would continue to know the nearness of Jesus in his beautiful golden years.
After worship, we lingered long around tables in the Ministry Center overflowing with food and laughter, honoring Bud with a heartfelt luncheon hosted by Redeemer Fellowship. With Bud's wife, Mae, and their family, we recounted decades of his faithfulness, his quiet kindness, and the countless ways he’s made Jesus real to us all.
It was one of those sacred days when heaven feels close — a day that reminded us we are truly, deeply, eternally loved.
God's blessings to Declan and Bud!