A Place to Call Home

In New Hampshire’s Baker River Valley a small country church

Brims with friendly people who savor common sense,

Neighbors ready to laugh or share a garden’s bounty with another,

Surrounded by big churches preaching hell-fire and damnation.

At Sunday services with the gathering of its faithful people,

He arrives early and waits, rain, shine or bitter snow storm,

Finds his favorite spot as he rests in the center aisle,

Like the church he’s brown and a friendlier dog can’t be found!

Greets those arriving as he wags his busy tail,

Dreams peacefully through sermon and liturgy,

Doesn’t mind if you scratch his ears, demands nothing,

Helps visitors or those hurting know they’re invited!

Furry, breathing parable who lives at the bottom of the hill,

Brings us gentle calm, soothing weary bodies and spirits,

He knows he’s loved and loves right back,

We leave assured of a home in heaven’s mansions.

david walters

David shared this poem with the national office of the United Church of Christ in response to a request for stories about local church life and they made a video of his poem! You may view the video here:

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