"I know, but Rosa also mentioned there was a little dis-
agreement in connection to the decision."
"Yes, that's true. But perhaps this generous donation
from you might help some of the dissenters to look at this
whole thing differently."
"Do you think so? You know, it occurred to me that it
might cause problems too. I really don't want to cause any
problems, but I do so want Michael to be a preacher-he has
such a gift in that area. In fact, I'm considering moving back
here just so I can attend Michael's church on a regular basis.
You know, I won't be around forever, and I really miss my
Stevie. If there's any way I could be assured to see him
again..."
"So, would you consider this to be 'Michael's church'?"
asked Maggie somewhat tentatively, sensing this could pre-
sent some potential problems.
"No, no, of course not. I'm sure Michael would never
hear of that anyway-we've all heard him go on about how
a church isn't a building but a group of people. And, cer-
tainly, I don't expect him to spend the rest of his life here in
Pine Mountain. But I'd like for him to have a place where he
could stand up and say all those fine things he seems to have
to say for just as long as he's willing to be here."
Maggie smiled. "I think it sounds like a wonderful idea,
Barbara. But, I'm curious, why are you telling me all this?"
248Melody Carlson
"I guess I just wanted a sounding board, and you're the
first person who came to mind. I know you're good friends
with Jed and with Michael, and I thought you could help
4;advise me on my next step."
"I think the next step would be to talk to the board."
Maggie listed the names of the members of the church board,
putting Sam's home phone number at the top. "Ultimately it
will be their decision."
"That's what I thought too. And if they agree, do you
think that they'll let Michael make the announcement in
church?"
"I don't know why not."
"And would you write an article about all this in your
newspaper?"
"Of course, this is an interesting news story. Maybe we
should include it in our Christmas edition. In fact, it just
might give us a positive way to react to all this white
supremacy banter without throwing more fuel in the fire. I
had already decided not to run Scott's next story on that
whole business for the Christmas edition. But I'd love to do
something to put a happy spin on this whole thing-and to
help make some people think a little more openly. I think this
is just the number!"
Barbara clapped her hands together. "Yes, that's perfect!
This can be my Christmas present to the whole town. Oh, I