Dear Starkdale Family,
On behalf of our entire congregation, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to Carol Grum for thirty five years of faithful ministry to our congregation. Carol joined our staff in 1972 and served Starkdale as an organist. Think about this. Thirty five years of commitment to weekly worship, weekly choir rehearsals, special services, ecumenical events, weddings and funerals, and for the last fourteen months, to two services every Sunday.
Carol’s deep commitment to Jesus Christ and her love for Starkdale has expressed itself in many other forms of service. The space of this letter would not permit me to list them all. Carol was responsible for the special theme-décor of many of our services, visited many of our members who, through the years, were hospitalized or shut-ins, kept in touch with many of our members through the writing of letters and cards, updated church records regarding loved ones who are no longer with us and honored them on Memorial weekend services, designed and organized the monthly Chimes’ articles, proofread the weekly church bulletins, advised me and former pastors regarding special calendar days, changed sanctuary liturgical colors according to their seasons, opened her home for choir fellowships and parties, and met and rehearsed with guest soloists … etc, to name a few. Moreover, Carol’s music warmed our offices at least two or three mornings a week, all in preparation for meaningful worship services.
Carol’s model of discipleship and sacrificial ministry exceeds by far any congregation’s expectations, and certainly any pastor’s dreams. I greatly appreciate her skills in organ music, sacred liturgy, and effective leadership. On both a professional and personal level, I am very grateful for the times that the two of us were able to spend discussing Sunday music and ideas for special services.
I dare to say, Carol Grum has spoiled us as a congregation. Her commitment was so high, her demands were none, and her professional abilities are unmatched. Thirty five years of serving Christ faithfully, sacrificially, and lovingly is the way Carol has been. I am sure that you share my feelings when I say, “Carol’s role in our ministry will continue to impact our lives.” WE LOVE YOU CAROL and WE THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DID FOR US SELFLESSLY and GENEROUSLY.
Friends, the good news is that Carol is and will remain an active member of our congregation for many more years to come. For that, we are forever thankful.
Sincerely,
Phillip Makari
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