The sanctuary pews at St. Matthew in York were packed with family, friends, and colleagues-and on a Friday night in August. Joy, anticipation, and excitement registered visibly on the faces as the first note of the prelude sounded. The procession began with the first notes of "Voices Raised to You," and a handful of lives would soon be forever changed as our Lower Susquehanna Synod gathered to celebrate the consecration of Laura Lengel Ramsey and the ordination of George Butler Scott, Tina Marie-Toburen Melusky, and Alexander Ryan Martini.  

Such occasions, while milestones in ministry and life for those upon whom hands are laid, stoles are placed, and basins and towels are given, also offer renewal and hope for the faithful in the pews and those currently serving in rostered leadership. Celebration, reflection, and, most of all, worship and praise mark the minutes and make holy the hour.  

For Bishop B. Penrose Hoover, this evening carried special significance as the last ordination over which he would preside and preach as bishop of our Synod. Bishop Hoover preached with warmth, humor, and deep care, weaving the lessons (Hosea 11:1-11; Psalm 107:1-9, 43; 2 Corinthians 5:14-21; John 21:15-19)

In addressing the joys and challenges of ministry, Bishop Hoover said, "You'll never be able to do enough, but be faithful and that is enough. Love your people, and that  is enough." In closing he reminded them, and all gathered that "the loving eternal parent who began a good work in you will bring it to completion in the day of Jesus Christ."

After the Rite of Ordination and Consecration hearty applause filled the nave. Joy continued with the sharing of Holy Communion, spilling from the Sacrament into a time of fellowship and food. It was a night to remember, a time to recall why we do what we do as God's people, and a time to give thanks for the faithful service of both rostered leaders and the priesthood of all believers.  

We are blessed to share this journey with Laura, George, Tina, and Alex and grateful for their new ministries. Thanks be to God for all the faithful who serve and love with courage, patience, and faithfulness.  

Laura Lengel Ramsey will begin her ministry as diaconal minister at Women and Babies Hospital, Lancaster, PA.

George Butler Scott has been called as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, East Berlin, PA.

Tina Marie-Toburen Melusky has been called as pastor of Grace Lutheran church, Red Lion, PA.

Alexander Ryan Martini has been called as pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Littlestown, PA.

Photos courtesy St. Paul's Dillsburg and Sharron Blezard. 

7:00 p.m.

Since 1992, MuZette, the husband and wife duo featuring Tom and Laurie Reese, has worked to develop a unique musical sound. Tom's extensive background in jazz flute, combined with Laurie's classical cello training and their mutual love of Celtic music, have led them to develop a new sound they call "Folk Fusion." The program includes the showing of the silent film Light of Faith, with a new original score written by Tom and Laurie Reese. A free-will offering will be taken to support Music at Zion. Click here for a PDF poster to share. Call (1717) 569-1359 for more information.