From the Interim Bishop

Celebrate ordination services

It has been my privilege this fall to participate in the ordination services of the following first-call pastors:  

• Rev. Wolfgang W. Laudert, ordained August 28, 2011, to West Union Lutheran Church, Carver, pastor.
• Rev. Jonathon Lund, ordained August 11, 2011, to Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Minneapolis, associate pastor for children, youth, and family.
• Rev. Derek J. Tronsgard, ordained August 27, 2011, to Good Shepherd Ev. Lutheran Church, Wayzata, associate pastor in children’s youth and family ministry.
• Rev. Stephen Grove, ordained September 13, 2011, to Christ English Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, pastor.
• Rev. Jacqueline Thone, ordained September 18, 2011, to Saint Barnabas Lutheran Church, Plymouth, associate pastor.

The ordination service of our first call pastoral candidates is a joyful and celebrative occasion. I wish that these services could all be scheduled more often at times other than Sunday mornings to allow clergy and lay representatives from neighboring congregations to attend. I am pleased to say that all of the ordinations this fall have been scheduled so that a good representation of clergy and guests from synod congregations could be present. Those attending represent the whole church as they respond to the questions to receive the candidate as a messenger of Jesus Christ, a servant of Christ, to pray for the candidate, and to live together in the peace and unity of Christ. Those assembled offer acclamation with applause that is heard throughout the church. In the laying on of hands and prayer for the candidate, the clergy present join in the biblical tradition of setting apart one called by the church to be a pastor in the church.

I am always deeply moved by this service and give thanks and praise to God as I drive away from the church for raising up another servant of the Gospel. As a pastor/bishop serving in this church, soon to be 50 years, I am filled with hope for the future of this church as these brothers and sisters affirm their vows to be faithful pastors in this church.

I ask you to support these new pastors with words of encouragement, prayer and acceptance.
One of the great blessings of serving as a synod bishop is the privilege that is mine to pray for and support wonderful rostered leaders and lay church workers. Thanks to all of you. You are appreciated. Thank you for your willingness to serve in this church.

It is with joy that all of us in the Minneapolis Area Synod welcome these newly ordained pastors to serve with us. God’s blessings and our thanks go with you.

Interim Bishop Glenn Nycklemoe