LETTER OF THANKS FROM PASTOR ED AND VICKY WHETSTONE

To our Beloved Community, dear Salem Congregation,

When at 32 years of age I began my ministry as your pastor, I was blessed to have a three year old boy in my arms, my son. And now as I celebrated with you the close of my ministry, I was blessed to have in my arms a three year old boy, my grandson. And a younger grandson for good measure. That beginning was 32 years ago, and I marvel at the symmetry of it all.

I am genuinely overwhelmed by the deep and profound joy which this half-of-a-lifetime has brought to me, and the rewards of this faithful adventure which we shared so long.

I’m truly humbled and uncommonly without easy words at the difficulty of giving thanks to God and to you for such a rich fullness. As you have in so many ways graciously thanked me for my ministry as your pastor, so I fervently want to thank you for your long ministry to me. Across these years I have grown and benefitted by your nurturing, your teaching, reproof, your forgiveness, consolation and your affirmation. I’m so thankful for your partnership across these years, "thanking God in every remembrance of you."

Yet now so grateful also for the treasure of these last several days. My last service as your pastor was so very meaningful to me: the choir and brass at both services, my favorite anthems, all your kind expressions of appreciation, the delightful and delicious receptions. And your very gratifying awarding of the title "Pastor Emeritus."

Sunday evening’s celebration with about 330 of you in a hall filled to capacity was an event neither Vicky nor I will ever forget. From the time we tried to fall asleep that night, we have been pondering the happy fellowship, and all the sweet and kind, clever and eminently thoughtful words and presentations. We’re so grateful, too, to those whose elaborate preparations made possible such an amazing evening.

Everyone’s remarks were so gracious and so kind. Each presentation was so very considerate: the beautiful, signed quilt, the exquisite and extensive photographic scrapbook, Vicky’s personal gift, the artful blanket with the individually knitted squares, the Frederick Douglass document, the airfare for a trip to Grandsonland (Minnesota), and the incredibly generous monetary gift of monies given by members of the congregation. And all evening there were the sentiments members expressed in person or writing. We’re still taking it all in.

We pray for you God’s continued blessings as with Pastor Asendorf you seek God’s grace for the future into which your Lord is leading you. We will rejoice to know every measure of your faithfulness and effectiveness in your mission and ministries.

Our love for you will abide to the end of our lives.