In June of 2003, the bishop appointed me to be your pastor, and Anna and I began a new adventure. Both we and the church were in a time of transition; from one church to a new one and from one pastor to another one.
Laurel Heights was also in a time of financial and spiritual transition. The long-planned renovation project was well underway; but, due to financial concerns, the church staff had to be cut way back. As your pastor, I needed help, but we couldn’t afford any more staff.
Into this situation came the answer to our prayers, my old friend and colleague Norman Roe. Norman was well aware of the transition and trouble we had and offered to "help in any way I can." Of course, we put him to work as worship leader, preacher, visitation pastor, Sunday School teacher and staff liaison with our missions, library and evangelism committees. Later, we were able to "hire" Norman and pay him something as our "part-time associate pastor." Norman has continued to serve Laurel Heights ever since, both faithfully and effectively. Indeed, he is the reason several new members have come to us and become active in the life and ministries of this church.
Now, Norman and Margie have decided to "really retire" so they can move to Austin to be closer to their family. Grandchildren have a way of causing that!
Norman’s last Sunday as our associate pastor will be May 25. He hopes to be able to preach that day and we will have a catered luncheon after church to honor and thank him. This meal has been underwritten by some of our generous members, so there will be no cost to you.
Part of our gift to Norman and Margie will be a "love offering" to show our love and appreciation for all they have meant to us, and also to help with his medical bills as he has undergone treatments and will soon have surgery for colon cancer.
So, Sunday, May 25 will be Norman and Margie Roe Day at Laurel Heights. I invite all our members and Norman and Margie’s friends and family to come and help us say "thank you" and "God bless."
