The Quiet Ones
by Charlotte Johnstone

Among Forbearance’s congregants, Seth Johnson was not what one might call a highflier. If the history of Forbearance Church were to be written, Seth’s name would probably not appear in any starring role. A bit like his biblical namesake, Forbearance’s Seth lived his life without drama or sensation, without extremes of emotion, without precipitous highs or lows. He was what used to be called a “steady fellow”—a man who could be counted on when common sense and practicality were needed. He sat on a few Forbearance committees, he paid his pledge on time, he faithfully attended worship services, and he mingled quietly during Sunday morning coffee hours. While certainly not anonymous to his fellow parishioners, Seth, gentle and unassuming, was not the first person a visitor to Forbearance would notice.

What is “noticeable” about Seth Johnson, then? Why does he have whole-hearted love and respect from those closest to him? Find out in the September/October 2008 issue of Horizons!

Charlotte Johnstone is a member of Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Along with the cast of Forbearance Presbyterian Church, she welcomes comments. Write to her at Horizons, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville KY 40202-1396, or email wjohns4949@att.net. Some of Charlotte’s most beloved tales from Forbearance are available in the book, Annie the Kitchen Queen and Other Dispatches from Forbearance Presbyterian Church. Order Item HZN-06-304 through Presbyterian Distribution Service (PDS), 800/524-2612. $10.00 plus shipping and handling.

Illustration by Annette Cable

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