In case you are wondering where April 7th's sermon is, there will not be one. The congregation I serve used that day to acknowledge and celebrate the completion of more than 20 years as their Pastor (still, I am not going anywhere that I know of). They did so by inviting the bishop to come and preach, with wonderful music by Mendelssohn and Mozart, by a delicious breakfast buffet, by the presence of some old-time but now moved members, by many cards, by many, many kind words, and by a shockingly generous gift. While I was not in suspense at the appearance of Dr. Roger Paavola, my old friend and DP, and his wife, Pat, I had specifically instructed them to keep this thing low key and focused not upon me or the anniversary. They found a way to heed some of my words and made it more a celebration of our partnership in the Gospel but they decided to ignore my counsel regarding a gift. What can I say but "thank you" to the people who extended me a call on Sept. 27, 1992, and whom I have served as Pastor since January 1, 1993. Stay any place long enough and the people in the pew become less people and more family and this is what has happened here. With great thanksgiving for the blessings God has showered upon us over these past 20+ years and with great confidence of His presence, guidance, and blessing in the years to come, I remain honored to be their Pastor and grateful for their affection and kindness.
1 comment:
Thank you, Pastor Peters, for your service to Grace! I wish we could have been there for your special day, unfortunately I did not hear about it until two days prior. When I think back on our time at Ft. Campbell, my best memory will always be our time at Grace. It is rare to find such a liturgical congregation, and a Shepherd who shows such concern for his flock. Blessings to you and your family in the years to come!
Dan, Hillary and James Walker
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