The Gift of a Thank-You
If you’ve ever given to NCC, there’s a good chance you’ve been touched by Linda Longe’s ministry without even realizing it. For over six years, Linda has faithfully written handwritten thank-you notes to donors, offering something simple, yet deeply meaningful: recognition, gratitude, and connection.
Linda’s journey to NCC began in 2017, when she and her husband moved to Newmarket from upstate New York. Like many, they spent time searching for a church home, visiting different congregations in the area. But they found themselves continually drawn back to NCC, especially to the messages shared by Pastor Patty. Before long, NCC became more than just a place they attended. It became home.
In 2019, Linda joined the choir and began to deepen her connection to the church community. Not long after, she and her husband made the decision to officially become members. But in 2020, everything changed. Amid the uncertainty and isolation of COVID-19, Linda experienced the sudden loss of her husband of nearly 52 years, her soulmate, whom she had known since her teenage years.
In the midst of unimaginable grief, Linda found herself surrounded by the care and compassion of this community. Her daughters, Pastor Patty, and Dave Talmage walked alongside her during one of the most difficult seasons of her life. It was in that space, just weeks after her husband’s passing, that Linda began writing thank-you notes.
What started as a way to find purpose in a time of loss grew into a quiet but powerful ministry.
Each note Linda wrote carried more than just words on paper. They carried appreciation, intention, and a reminder that every act of generosity matters. Week after week, year after year, she made sure that people felt seen, not just for what they gave, but for the spirit in which they gave it.
Linda shared that she has continued this work for so many years because she believes deeply in the mission of NCC. She sees firsthand the ways this church shows up for the greater Newmarket community, not just in words, but in action. For her, writing thank-you notes has been a way to honor both the generosity of others and the heart of the church itself.
She describes NCC as a place that doesn’t just talk about the teachings of Jesus, but truly strives to live them out. Through her quiet, consistent act of gratitude, Linda has done exactly that.
Now, after more than six years of this faithful service, Linda is passing this ministry on to John Lockhart and Rene Hokinson. As they step into this role, they follow a beautiful example, one that has shaped how our church expresses gratitude and connection.
Linda, your words have mattered. Your time has mattered. Your heart has mattered.
On behalf of the entire NCC community, thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and for reminding us all of the power of a simple “thank you.”
When asked if she had one message to share, Linda said this:
“Love everyone as Jesus would want us to do.” A message she hasn’t just spoken, but lived. Peace and love.
Your friendly neighborhood church administrator,
Jeremy
