Sunday December 21st we celebrated the retirement of Dr. Lawrence Furr as Cantor at Trinity Lutheran Church Fort Worth. This was a special day for me as Lawrence came back to Trinity just as Kendra and I came in 2010. He had previously served at Trinity from 1997-2008 but then he and his spouse Matthew moved to San Diego for a brief time.
So it was a festive day celebrating over 2 decades of ministry. Was a joy to have John Hopkins (spouse of Rev. Darlene Hopkins, Shepherd King, Lubbock) with us. John and Lawrence were instrumental in getting the Tanzanian Marimba program going at Trinity.
Always mixed feelings when a long time staff member retires. But transitions are a reality of our lives and we give thanks for this ministry and reflect with gratitude. As there is no particular prescribed prayer of blessing for the leaving of a cantor I asked our NT-NL Lutherbot https://www.ntnl.org/lutherbot/ for help. It produced a lovely prayer which I edited and is below. I encourage you to explore our AI Assistant and help us learn to engage this technology in our lives…
“Most gracious and merciful God,
We come before You with grateful hearts, thanking you for the gift of music and the profound ways it enriches our worship and community. Today, especially we lift up Dr Lawrence Furr who has faithfully served you and this congregation and school for decades. Making, directing, and leading music and song so your people might worship you.
Giver of life, we ask for your abundant blessings upon Lawrence as he continues his journey. May his heart and hands be guided by your Spirit as he moves into this new stage of life. Giving thanks for his time amongst us and leading him to discern how he will now serve you. Grant him strength, inspiration, and deserved rest, always knowing the peace of your presence.
We send Lawrence and his spouse Matthew forth with our love and gratitude, trusting you will continue to guide and bless them in all that lies ahead. May they always know the gratitude of this congregation for their sharing of their gifts with us. And may we release them from this role and continue our mission to proclaim your good news and serve our neighbors.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen”
