Most of the time, the congregational care component of my call encompasses transitions and call process. Occasionally it means working with conflict situations. But I also discovered recently that on a rare occasion (thankfully rare,) there is tremendous grief and shock to tend to.

That was the case for the congregation of Grace Lutheran in Fort Worth. A very active and loved couple from the congregation died in a tragic car accident on the way to church. The effects run deep and the shock was strong. All of my previous work with this congregation was during their transition and recent call process. Attending and participating in a candlelight vigil gave  greater meaning to congregational care.

Pr. Don Strickland has been doing wonderful work there, so my attendance was simply a ministry of presence and support. I continue to pray for them and their grief even in this holiday season.