Remarks to the Congregation in Response to Pastor Hilston's Announcement of Retirement by James E. Benson, Vice President of the Church Council.

Martin Luther once wrote that if anyone doubt the Resurrection look only to Spring for proof, a time at which all things are reborn. For nearly two years we have been a congregation seemingly "locked" in an eternal Spring, a time of change, of growth, of transition, it has been a time of moving from one place to another. This day, those of the Jewish faith celebrate the first day of Passover, commemorating the Exodus from Egypt and the liberation of the Israelites from slavery. Life is full of periods of transition, of beginning anew, of facing the Good Friday's of our lives and of rejoicing in the Easter victories of life begun anew. It is in this spirit of transition, of life begun anew that Pastor Hilston has announced to us this day his intention to retire as our assistant pastor.

This is without doubt a bittersweet moment for this congregation and for each of us as individuals, as it is for Pastor and his family. For nearly 30 years Kenneth W. Hilston, Jr. has labored among us, faithfully preaching the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ with truth and compassion as his family has labored beside him on our behalf through supporting his role as a Shepherd of the Flock. For this gift of faith and commitment we truly say "Thanks be to God."

This retirement is a well earned and well deserved reward for Pastor and Paula's tireless dedication to the people of First Evangelical Lutheran Church. May God grant them both, a happy, healthy and enjoyable retirement.

Regarding Pastor Hilston's future, the Bishop has graciously agreed that Pastor Hilston may perform weddings that he has scheduled provided that when the new pastor is called that person will be invited to participate in the ceremony. Pastor Hilston may not schedule any new weddings. In so far as Pastor Hilston's future involvement in First Lutheran, be it personal or pastoral, those details have not yet been worked out with the Bishop.

I remind all of you, that we have been a congregation at peace for more than three decades, and that we have a one hundred and forty-one year heritage of faith in this community, and that we will continue, with the help of God, to be a people of peace doing His work in this place.

At the appropriate time we will gather as a congregation to celebrate and give thanks for Pastor Hilston's time among us and we look forward to a continuing friendship for many years to come.

Thank you!

April 20, 2008