AtomPastor’s Corner
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Again this year, I’m using my January newsletter space to share some of the family happenings in my family as I’ve been asked by many what’s happening with my family members now that Joy and I are “empty nesters” with all our kids “somewhat” out on their own. Thus, in a sense, this article could be seen as my “Christmas Letter” to you, our “family in Christ” at First Lutheran.
From the get-go, I share this with gratitude in my heart for all those at First Lutheran who have helped in the raising of our “young adults”. From Sunday School teachers to confirmation guides, to members of the Worship team, to people sending notes of appreciation and encouragement…so many of you have had a hand in shaping the hearts and minds of our children. Joy and I give thanks to each and to all.
Our oldest, Joshua, was married this June (at First Lutheran) to a lovely young lady from Michigan (Mariah) and they are making their home in Virginia, Minnesota. Note that Josh and Mariah met while biking the Habitat 500 bike ride a few years back and it’s been fun to watch their relationship blossom and grow. Josh is beginning his career as a band director in the Junior High ranks (my dad would be so proud) and Mariah is a 3rd grade teacher in the Nashwauk-Keewatin School district. Joy and I were able to attend his first band concert in early December…it was fun to see and hear…and celebrate with him!!
Dan, our second son, has two semesters left at NDSU to complete his Criminal Justice Degree. His days also begin and end with his ROTC commitments. Through the guard and ROTC he has traveled from Washington to Washington this past year either in training or in furthering his military education. We do know that Dan is definitely looking forward to his graduation next December and is ready to move into the next phase of his life journey. His part time employment is driving armored cars!! What a deal…he loves it!!
Angela, our oldest daughter, is in the middle of her junior year at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. She is captain of her equestrian team and has ridden in all of the NCAA horse competitions this fall; earning overall first place in the competition Joy and I were able to attend at Crookston. After spending her summer interning at a Ranch in Wisconsin, she is on her way to fulfilling her dream of entering Veterinarian School somewhere.
Melody, our youngest, is now a Cobber…which, as many know, is a source of pride for her mom and all other First Lutheran Cobbers: and these Cobbers remind me of this on a regular basis. She sings in the choirs: it was with joy and delight we attended the Concordia Christmas Concert this fall knowing Mel would be part of this musical gift. This also puts her in the footsteps of her grandmother (Joy’s mom) who was the “Beautiful Savior” soloist for the Concordia choir many years ago!! Mel wrapped up her first semester this December.
As for Joy and me…we give thanks daily for the opportunity to live within the community of faith at First Lutheran. We count it a privilege to do ministry together with you, our brothers and sisters in Christ. We continue to be amazed (and grateful) for all the ways you, God’s people, share your lives and serve others through the ministries we do together. Thank you…from the bottom of our hearts!!
I look forward to what this new year will bring…what God will do with us, in us, and through us. THANK YOU for your partnership in the ministry we share together in and through First Lutheran. May God richly bless our next year of ministry together!!
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