An Anniversary of 45 years

It seems hard to believe but 45 years ago on this day, June 10, 1973 I was ordained at my home congregation (Epiphany Lutheran) in Brooklyn, New York. I posted the anniversary on my Facebook page and there were a number of comments. Certainly more than I expected. In ministry, Word and Sacrament or Word and Service, there are always ups and downs, but the ups outweigh the down times. I have been blessed by family, congregants, students and colleagues who inspired and supported me over the years.

Prior to this 45th year, I had two significant events that occurred in April. On April 29th my portrait was unveiled in the Wentz library. I was the first African American to be tenured at Gettysburg...I must also say I will be the last since Gettysburg Seminary no longer exits. It is now the Gettysburg campus of United Lutheran Seminary. On April 18, I was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for service in ministry but the Alumni Association. My classmate, Bob Musser nominated me. I was certainly humbled by these two events. When I arrived in Gettysburg as a student in September 1969, I never imagined that Gettysburg would play such an important part in my life. I am thankful.

Reflecting on 39 years

Today is my 39th anniversary of ordination. On 10 June 1973 I was ordained by the Metropolitan Synod of the Lutheran Church in America to the Office of Word and Sacrament. The ordination took place at Epiphany Lutheran Church, my home congregation in Brooklyn, New York. I have been blessed to have a variety of experiences in the church since that time. My first call was as co-pastor to the three Lutheran parishes on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. I had specific responsibilities in Christian education, youth, and social ministry. My second call was in Cleveland, Ohio at Advent Lutheran Church. These two calls prepared me for my present call as Professor of Christian/Religious Education at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. I have served at the seminary since 1987. I have been blessed by and thankful for the experiences and encounters with people within and outside of the church. Soli Deo Gloria!