We were newcomers to the Hawkins area and attending the LCMS church in Longview, TX. We were hoping to find a LCMS church closer to our home. We received a phone call from Karen inviting us to join with a handful of believers who wanted to establish a LCMS congregation near us. John and Karen became friends with Glenda and me right away and we worshipped together until they moved to Lantanna. John came over one day and helped me drive "T posts" around our huge garden to keep varmints out. After that, John frequently asked me about our garden crop. We enjoyed their friendship.