One of my favorite people if not THE favorite person in ministry, ever, is Kathy Carlton Phreaner.  I met Kathy very early in my youth ministry life but I don’t recall where or when.  But I do know that I was instantly drawn to her  because she was so full of life, love, laughter, compassion, stories and sheer joy.  And it seemed that wherever I went in the Diocese, Kathy was either there as a participant or leading gathering.  High school kids, college students and adults all loved Kathy Phreaner and she each one. 

There are so many unique characteristics about Kathy that can light up any space but what was most obvious was her contagious laugh.  It was deep, genuine, utterly free and constant.  And the second, for me was her response to any good news with the phrase, “Yea God!”  It was almost a mini-song because the pitch, tempo, expression and rhythm were always the same. 

My family moved to Portland in February 1980 and very shortly after that Kathy moved to Portland as well but was with out a place to stay right away so we had her as our guest.  There were hours of fun and laughter especially with the kids.  And then in August, Kelli was born and of course the first words out of Kathy’s mouth was a beaming “YEEEAAA GGOOODD!”  

The day after Kelli’s birth and while Marci and the baby were recovering in the hospital,  I rode my bike to work at the parish and left in the early afternoon.  It was a gorgeous day full of color and a cooling breeze.  I felt so alive and happy I thought I was going to burst.  And then, I actually did.  “YEA GOD! YEA EA GOD YOU ARE THE CHAMPION THE CHAMPION OF LOVE.”  The melody and words continued to gush out as I biked along the 3 miles home.  I didn’t finish it that day.  In fact is was a weak or so later before I sat with my guitar and finished.  But I hope you can guess who was the first to hear it?  Phreaner.  And I hope you can guess what she said when I finished?  “YEA GOD!”