It is hard to describe my experience as a Petal Pusher® and the Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM) float. It was beyond any expectation I could have imagined. I was deeply appreciative of the opportunity to experience it first-hand!

The planning, coordination, process, and detail in decorating the LHM float (along with assisting to decorate other floats) was amazing. It was a true delight to visit with and work alongside float veterans (a wealth of knowledge and experience!) as well as first-timers. Each person played an integral role and in working together, something memorable was built. It was a great model of the Body of Christ in action!

To be able to participate in the parade was another unique opportunity. Again, I saw the planning, coordination, process, and detail that goes into bringing the float to the parade route. I saw that "Bringing Christ to the Nations" (the LHM mission) was evident from beginning to end. To have seen and heard the response from the crowd to the float as well as the music, was both hum­bling and exhilarating! They called to "Jesus", men and women, old and young, all ethnicities and cultures. They sang along with the music and interacted with the float riders. They were touched by the Gospel message. It was a great way to be in the world, but not of the world! We shared our faith and proclaimed Christ, in seeds, flowers, greenery, rice, leaves, and
love.

Eden Keefe
Lutheran Women in Mission (LWML)
President 2023-2027