With great regret and even greater appreciation....

Our Cantor of 22 years has announced his retirement effective in June of this year. Rocky Craft has been my colleague and friend since he first came to us and I cannot begin to think what it will be like to stand in the chancel without him at the organ console. When he started with us, we had the bare beginnings of a music program and an electronic organ in need of serious repair. Now we have an expansive and profound church music program, a popular concert series, and two pipe organs!! All of this due is to his leadership and faithful labor for the Lord and His Church. He has served us with distinction, humor, integrity, and grace and he has transformed our lives forever. Thank you seems too little to say in response to all that Rocky has given!

We will be seeking a music director and organist to build on this foundation. We will not be able to replace him but we believe the Lord will lead us to the person whose faith, ability, gifts, and personality will enable what Rocky began to continue and grow. With that in mind, I ask my readers to pray with us for that person. Particulars may be found at the Positions Available sections of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians and of The American Guild of Organists websites.
You may also email me  or through the Grace Lutheran Church, Clarksville, Tennessee, web page.

Thank you, Rocky,  and we will cherish the next months you serve the Lord for our benefit.  Lutherans have always placed music as the handmaiden to the Word in the service of God, His people, and His work. Rocky has exemplified the finest of what it means to stand in the grand tradition of the Lutheran giants whose musical genius and faith have helped define -- along with our confessors who put faith to paper in the Symbols -- who we are as Lutheran Christians.