Today I was able to travel to Wausau, WI to be with Gary and Nan and their family for Gary’s retirement. It was a beautiful service at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, full of glorious music, a choir that sounded awesome and included brass that was out of this world…gave me goosebumps.
Pastor Gary started the service out by giving a cute children’s sermon using a video from The Sound of Music with the Captain’s children singing the so long, fair well song.
Gary always delivers a sermon with a message is so meaningful and yesterday was no different. He is a dynamic speaker, he is so easy to listen to and I can apply the sermons and the message to my daily life.
Here are some moments I captured from Communion and the Rite of Retirement.
At the end of the service the choir sang the most beautiful benediction that brought moved many to tears. Here is a picture of Gary as he looks up at the choir singing the benediction.
A reception luncheon was served in the church basement where the congregation at St. Stephen’s sent Gary and Nan off with gifts for them both to enjoy. A weekend stay at The Inn At Cedar Crossing in Sturgeon Bay and a date night for every month for the next year!
For me, friends are just as important as family and I have found family in my friends…the Froseths are my family and I cherish every moment I spend with them. Don’t ever take your family and friends for granted. I’ve learned, life is way to short…so tell the ones you love and care for that you love them and how much they mean to you.
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