Friday August 16th was a celebration in South Carolina as we ordained a new pastor for the NT-NL Synod, ELCA. Pastor Sarah Derrick is called to Faith Lutheran Church, Flower Mound. She was raised up for leadership by her family through multiple generations and the community of Zion Lutheran, Lexington, SC. Today we gathered there with Bishop Herman Yoos of the South Carolina Synod and gave thanks for God’s call to her.

Sarah’s internship supervisor was also with us to preach. The Rev. Erik Wilson-Weidberg is pastor at First Lutheran, Ballard, Seattle and he preached a strong sermon. In a personal note I served the same internship as Sarah. A combination between a congregation in Seattle and the advocacy office of the church. While Pastor Erik was not my supervisor I knew him then and give thanks for his friendship and leadership.

We look forward to welcoming Pastor Derrick into our synod and are grateful for her commitment to serve her church.

I drove back to North Carolina wher I will catch my early flight in the morning from Charlotte to get back to visit with our candidacy committee. Ran into traffic as the NFL Carolina Panthers were playing a preseason game. Enjoyed seeing how this part of our nation is developing. Grateful for all our communities lifting up leaders to serve the church.#NTNL #InMissionTogether