From the Pastor

August 2004

"I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now." -- Philippians 1:3-5

On 17 July, I marked my eighth anniversary of ordination. I was ordained by Bishop Paul Werger on 17 July 1996, at Faith Lutheran Church in Calamus, Iowa. I can hardly believe it has been that long since I begin my work as a pastor.

In May, I marked my four-year anniversary as pastor of Holy Redeemer. As I reflect on those milestones, I would just like to take a moment to thank you for the role you have had in shaping who I am as a member of the ordained clergy.

Thank you for welcoming me to this place and for the privilege of serving as your pastor. Thank you for trusting me with your joys and sorrows, and for giving me the opportunity to preach and teach about the grace of God as revealed in Jesus Christ. Thank you for letting me make mistakes. Thank you for sharing your stories about your faith with me, and for letting me share mine with you.

Thank you for the privilege of allowing me to teach your children, and to laugh with them and with you. Thank you for being a congregation that sees the value in youth ministry and for being willing to support the young people of the congregation. Thank you for the times of fellowship, here at church and in your homes (Please feel free to invite me to join you for coffee—I will treat!—or a walk, or a visit in your home or at your workplace. No need to wait for me to approach you, although I will continue to try to seek you out!).

Thank you for being a congregation that is willing to try new things—even if you do not always like them! Thank you for being willing to talk openly and honestly about such things as sexuality. Thank you for sometimes agreeing to disagree, and agreeing to love one another still in the name of Christ. Thank you for pushing me to deeper and deeper study of and reflection on my own faith. Thank you for being understanding when I have to say I do not have all the answers. Thank you for being witnesses and ministers to me.

Thank you for welcoming me into your midst. I know that Vicar Renee can look forward to the same spirit of welcome when she joins us in late August. Holy Redeemer is a good place to be engaged in ministry … and a good place to feel the power of the love of God.

In Christ,
Pastor Brenda