In March of 2019, I came to Zion as part-time Interim Pastor for Visitation and Pastoral Care. At that time, it was thought that the interim would likely be brief until a settled full-time Pastor for Congregational Life was called. None of us expected two and a half years to go by.
Part of the “interim” label is the understanding that either the congregation could call a new settled pastor, or the interim could find a settled call elsewhere. On Sunday, July 25th, the ELCA congregation of Osseo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Osseo, WI, voted to extend me a full-time settled call as Associate Pastor, culminating in a process that began in April when Zion’s Call Committee began actively interviewing candidates following the pandemic.
It’s difficult to leave Zion right now since there have been many transitions lately, and because Cathy and I have been made to feel so welcome here. Yet I look forward to the chance to create new experiences and new ministries in a settled call. Cathy and I will be moving to Osseo, which is about 20 miles south of Eau Claire on I-94.
Words can’t express my gratitude for the community of Zion. It has been a great blessing to have been among such wonderful people and to have partnered in ministry and walked our journeys of faith together. A huge and heartfelt “Thank you” to each and every one of you. I am confident in the strength and ability of the members, staff, and congregational leadership to move Zion into a rich future.
My final Sunday at Zion will be August 22nd. I invite you to attend worship that day to lend your voice to the service of Farewell and Godspeed as we all make this transition. I will be in worship the Sundays leading up to the 22nd and in the office during the week, and I welcome the chance to chat or answer any questions. God’s peace to you all!
